The audition tape Margot Robbie swears by

Margot Robbie says she watched Rachel McAdams’ ‘Notebook’ audition before her own to channel commitment

Margot Robbie has revealed that one of her biggest acting inspirations came from repeatedly watching an audition tape by Rachel McAdams. Speaking during an interview while promoting her new film Wuthering Heights, Robbie admitted she used to study McAdams’ now famous audition for The Notebook before heading into her own casting sessions.

Robbie described McAdams’ performance in the audition as charming, real and completely committed. She explained that watching it became part of her routine, almost like a ritual to get into the right headspace. Before stepping into an audition room, she would play the tape and remind herself to match that same level of emotional investment. For Robbie, the takeaway was simple but powerful. Full commitment makes all the difference.

When asked whether that ritual directly helped her land roles, Robbie reflected that technically every part she secured during that period could be linked back to McAdams’ influence, since she relied on the audition as motivation each time. She stressed that it was not about copying McAdams but about reminding herself to be fearless and fully present.

McAdams famously won the role of Allie Calhoun opposite Ryan Gosling in The Notebook, a performance that helped cement the film as one of the most beloved romance titles of the 2000s. The chemistry between the leads turned the adaptation into a cultural touchstone and launched McAdams into global stardom.

Robbie later had the opportunity to work alongside McAdams in About Time, where Robbie had a smaller role while McAdams led the cast. She recalled that at the time she was largely unknown and deeply grateful for McAdams’ kindness on set. Robbie shared that McAdams went out of her way to be warm and welcoming to her and her brother, a gesture she says she will never forget.

Both actors are currently on the promotional circuit for new releases. McAdams stars in Send Help, directed by Sam Raimi, which has performed strongly at the box office. Robbie, meanwhile, headlines Wuthering Heights opposite Jacob Elordi.