Margot Robbie shared a startling story about receiving a rude and insulting gift from a male co-star during the early days of her acting career. In a recent interview, Robbie revealed that the gift was a book that implied she needed to lose weight, a message that left a lasting negative impression on her.
Details of the Unwelcome Present in Interview with Charli XCX
In a video published on Monday by Complex, Robbie sat down with pop singer Charli XCX as part of the series GOAT Talk. When asked to name the worst gift she had ever received, Robbie instantly recalled the offensive book presented to her by a male actor. She said,
“Very, very early in my career, an actor I worked with, a male actor, gave me a book called ‘Why French Women Don’t Get Fat,’ and it was essentially a book telling you to eat less,”
Margot Robbie explained. She added bluntly,
“I was like, ‘Woah. F—k you, dude.’”
When asked if the actor was still active in the industry, Robbie responded,
“That was a very [long time ago]. I have no idea where he would even be now. This was really back in the day.”
Charli XCX reacted by jokingly declaring, Your career’s over, babe, as Robbie confirmed the gift’s intent, stating,
“He essentially gave me a book to let me know that I should lose weight,”
and remarked, “I was like, ‘Wow.’”
Origins of the Book and Robbie’s Career Progression
The book in question, Why French Women Don’t Get Fat, was written by French author and painter Mireille Guiliano and published in 2004. Robbie began earning screen roles by 2008, appearing in television series such as Neighbours, City Homicide, and Review with Myles Barlow. It was not until 2013 that she experienced her breakout moment with a supporting role in The Wolf of Wall Street.
Since then, Margot Robbie has solidified her status as a leading Hollywood actress and producer, earning three Oscar nominations. She received nods in 2018 and 2020 for her performances in I, Tonya and Bombshell respectively, and in 2024 gained a Best Picture nomination for her producing and starring role in Greta Gerwig’s Barbie.
Current Projects Highlighting Robbie’s Prominence
Robbie is currently starring in Wuthering Heights, written and directed by Emerald Fennell, known for Saltburn. Adapted from Emily Brontë’s classic novel, the film features Robbie opposite Jacob Elordi, who also appeared in Saltburn. Charli XCX contributed an original pop soundtrack for the movie, blending new musical elements with this period drama.
The film is scheduled for release on Friday, February 13, marking a significant addition to Robbie’s diverse portfolio of roles.
Additional Insights From the Interview
During their discussion, XCX and Robbie were asked about their choice for the Greatest Actor of All Time. Robbie selected Philip Seymour Hoffman, prompting XCX to respond, You stole mine! Notably, XCX stars alongside Hoffman’s son, Cooper, in director Gregg Araki’s recent film I Want Your Sex, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival in January and was acquired by Magnolia Pictures just recently.
Impact of the Experience and Industry Reflection
Margot Robbie’s story about the rude book gift brings attention to the kind of unprofessional and insensitive experiences actors may face early in their careers. Despite the negativity from that incident, Robbie has become a recognized and respected figure in Hollywood. Her continued success offers an example of resilience amid challenges, reinforcing her position as a Hollywood A-lister and influential creative force in film both in front of and behind the camera.
