Margot Robbie has become one of Hollywood’s most dynamic actresses, earning both box office success and critical acclaim. From her breakout role in The Wolf of Wall Street to her Oscar-nominated turns in I, Tonya and Bombshell, and her global recognition as Barbie in 2023’s record-breaking Barbie, Robbie’s career reflects an actress who blends versatility with fearless choices.
Recently, Robbie opened up about what drives her decisions when it comes to picking roles. Her insights reveal not only her personal approach to acting but also her vision for contributing meaningfully to the film industry.
Ambition Meets Opportunity
Born in Dalby, Queensland, Robbie started with Australian TV shows before making the leap to Hollywood. Her role as Naomi Lapaglia in Martin Scorsese’s The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) instantly put her on the map. Instead of following the predictable route of glamour-driven roles, Robbie sought out projects that would challenge her.
Her drive to prove herself meant taking on complex characters—like Tonya Harding in I, Tonya—that required both vulnerability and grit. It was clear early on that Robbie valued depth and challenge over easy stardom.
Following Instincts and Passion
Robbie has often said that she follows her instincts when deciding on roles. If a character excites her or a script sparks curiosity, she takes it seriously. “I have to feel something when I read it,” she’s explained in interviews.
This instinctive approach means she avoids being boxed into a single genre. Whether it’s the biographical drama of I, Tonya, the comic-book chaos of Suicide Squad, or the playful yet layered storytelling of Barbie, Robbie thrives on variety.
Collaborations and Creative Partnerships
Another driving factor for Robbie is the people she works with. Directors, writers, and co-stars often influence her decisions. Collaborations with filmmakers like Martin Scorsese, Quentin Tarantino (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood), and Greta Gerwig (Barbie) highlight her commitment to working with creative teams that push boundaries.
She has also built long-term partnerships through her production company, LuckyChap Entertainment. Founded with her husband Tom Ackerley and friends, LuckyChap focuses on developing projects that showcase female voices and fresh perspectives. This behind-the-scenes role shows how her choices go beyond acting—they also reflect her desire to shape Hollywood’s future.
Her Audacity
Robbie is not afraid of risk. When she signed on to play Harley Quinn in Suicide Squad (2016), it was a gamble—comic-book adaptations can be unpredictable. Yet her performance became iconic, leading to Birds of Prey (2020), which she also produced.
Similarly, her decision to embody Tonya Harding in I, Tonya raised eyebrows, but the role earned her an Academy Award nomination and global respect as a serious actress. These risks have paid off, showing that she values artistic challenge as much as audience appeal.
Role Choices with Purpose
Robbie has said she looks for roles that tell meaningful stories or shine a light on overlooked narratives. I, Tonya gave voice to a controversial figure who had often been dismissed. Bombshell explored workplace harassment and gender politics in media. Barbie—though colorful and comedic—addressed themes of identity, empowerment, and social expectations.
Her purpose-driven selections reflect a broader mission: to ensure her work resonates beyond the screen.
Balancing Stardom with Substance
Despite her global fame, Robbie has resisted being typecast as a traditional Hollywood starlet. Instead, she strikes a balance between commercial success and projects with cultural weight. This balance explains her staying power in an industry where fame can be fleeting.
Her career proves that an actress can achieve blockbuster status while still making meaningful artistic contributions.
In Future
Looking forward, Robbie continues to expand her role as both actress and producer. Through LuckyChap, she’s involved in producing diverse projects that highlight underrepresented voices. Fans eagerly await her next performances, curious about how she will continue blending passion, purpose, and risk-taking in her career.
If her track record is any indication, Margot Robbie will remain a force in Hollywood—not just as a star, but as a storyteller and changemaker.
FAQs About Margot Robbie
Q1: What was Margot Robbie’s breakout role?
Her breakout role was Naomi Lapaglia in The Wolf of Wall Street (2013).
Q2: How does she decide which roles to take?
She follows her instincts, choosing roles that excite her, challenge her, or tell meaningful stories.
Q3: What production company does she run?
She co-founded LuckyChap Entertainment, which focuses on projects with fresh voices and strong female narratives.
Q4: Which roles earned her Oscar nominations?
She was nominated for I, Tonya (Best Actress) and Bombshell (Best Supporting Actress).
Q5: Why did Barbie become such a career milestone?
It was a global hit that showcased her range—mixing humor, emotion, and cultural commentary.
Q6: Does she take risks in her career?
Yes. Roles like Tonya Harding or Harley Quinn were bold choices that proved her versatility.
Q7: What’s next for Margot Robbie?
Through acting and LuckyChap productions, she continues to champion meaningful, innovative projects.
Sources
- Variety – Margot Robbie on Role Selection
- The Hollywood Reporter – Robbie’s Career Philosophy
- IndieWire – Inside LuckyChap Entertainment’s Vision
- BBC – Margot Robbie’s Rise in Hollywood