Brian Cox Criticizes Margot Robbie, Daniel Day-Lewis in Bold Interview

In a Times UK interview published Friday, actor Brian Cox offered blunt assessments of colleagues and casting choices. The remarks included a critique of Margot Robbie and a discussion about Daniel Day-Lewis. The conversation was widely described as a Bold Interview.

On Margot Robbie and Wuthering Heights

Cox questioned Robbie’s casting as Cathy in a new adaptation of Wuthering Heights. He mocked the idea of her adopting an Australian-inflected delivery tied to her Neighbours past.

He said the 1939 film adaptation remains one of his favourites. He added that Robbie’s looks made him doubt the fit for Cathy, while acknowledging he could be wrong.

Feud, Method Acting and Daniel Day-Lewis

The interview revisited Cox’s public spat tied to Jeremy Strong and method acting. Cox had criticised Strong’s approach in 2023, calling attention to the theatrical trappings that sometimes accompany method work.

Strong, now 47, reportedly asked Cox to stop discussing him. Day-Lewis intervened last year, urging Cox to get off his “soapbox.” Cox said he has not contacted Day-Lewis and described him as discreet and professional on set.

Other Public Criticisms

Cox has long voiced forthright opinions about high-profile figures. He has described Johnny Depp as overrated and said Ian McKellen’s work is not to his taste.

He has also called Edward Norton difficult and used blunt language for Kevin Spacey. Directors and writers have been targeted too, including Quentin Tarantino and Michael Caton-Jones.

On Awards and Churchill

Cox, who portrayed Winston Churchill in the 2017 film Churchill, dismissed Gary Oldman’s Oscar-winning Churchill turn. He framed that performance as crowd-pleasing rather than artistically satisfying.

Attitude and Age

Now 79, Cox said he feels freer to speak his mind. He added his wife urges caution, but he plans to keep voicing his views as he nears 80.

Filmogaz.com will continue to monitor reactions to the interview. Responses from those named have been limited at this time.