Margot Robbie Reveals Rachel McAdams' 'Notebook' Audition Inspired Her Career

Shonda Rhimes

Prolific television creator ("Grey's Anatomy," "Scandal") and author on creativity and empowerment.

Margot Robbie, a celebrated actress, recently shared insights into the formative influences on her acting career, specifically highlighting how Rachel McAdams' audition for "The Notebook" served as a profound source of inspiration. Robbie recounted watching McAdams' audition tape repeatedly before her own tryouts, not just for performance cues, but to absorb the essence of complete dedication, a principle she believes was pivotal to her success.

Celebrated Actress Margot Robbie Finds Inspiration in Rachel McAdams' 'Notebook' Audition Tape, Elevating Her Own Craft and Career

In a recent interview on BBC Radio 2, dated February 12, 2026, during the promotional tour for her new film "Wuthering Heights," Margot Robbie disclosed a fascinating detail about her acting preparation. The three-time Oscar nominee revealed that she frequently viewed Rachel McAdams' renowned audition for the iconic film "The Notebook" prior to her own auditions. Robbie admired McAdams' performance, describing it as "so good, and she's so charming and real, and like, in it." This practice, according to Robbie, was a constant reminder to "just try and be as good as her" and to fully commit to every role during the audition process. The "Barbie" star confirmed that this dedication, honed by observing McAdams, played a crucial role in securing various parts throughout her career, even though she couldn't pinpoint specific roles. She also fondly recalled working alongside McAdams in the film "About Time," where despite her then-minor status, McAdams' kindness and graciousness left a lasting impression on Robbie and her brother. "The Notebook," released in 2004, solidified McAdams' status as a romantic lead, with her chemistry with co-star Ryan Gosling making the film a beloved romance classic. Both Robbie and McAdams are currently busy promoting their latest projects: Robbie with "Wuthering Heights," which is set to premiere on February 13, and McAdams starring in Sam Raimi's "Send Help," which has already achieved box office success.

Robbie's revelation underscores the often-unseen layers of influence and mutual respect within the acting community. Her journey exemplifies how aspiring artists can draw profound lessons from the mastery of others, transforming observation into a driving force for their own professional development. It highlights the importance of dedication and genuine commitment, not just as performance techniques, but as foundational pillars for a successful career in the competitive world of cinema. Furthermore, it paints a picture of collegiality among actresses, where established stars extend kindness to newcomers, shaping not just their careers but also fostering a supportive environment within the industry.

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