How Old Was Margot Robbie In Focus? The Shocking Age Gap That Sparked Hollywood Buzz
As of December 23, 2025, the 2015 romantic crime dark comedy-drama Focus remains a key point of discussion in Margot Robbie’s impressive filmography, largely due to her magnetic performance as Jess Barrett opposite Will Smith. The film captivated audiences with its slick con-artist plot and the undeniable chemistry between its two leads, but it also drew attention to the significant age difference between the actors.
The central question many fans still ask is precisely how old the Australian actress was when she filmed and promoted the movie. Margot Robbie was only 24 years old when Focus hit theaters, marking one of her earliest lead roles in a major Hollywood production and solidifying her transition from a supporting actress to a global superstar.
Margot Robbie: Full Biography and Profile
Margot Elise Robbie is an Australian actress and producer who has quickly become one of the most recognizable and influential figures in modern cinema. Her career trajectory is a textbook example of a rapid rise to A-list status, beginning with her work in Australian television before conquering Hollywood.
- Full Name: Margot Elise Robbie
- Date of Birth: July 2, 1990 [cite: 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 in step 1]
- Place of Birth: Dalby, Queensland, Australia [cite: 3, 5, 6 in step 1]
- Nationality: Australian
- Height: Approximately 5 ft 6 in (1.68 m)
- Early Career: Began her career in the Australian soap opera Neighbours (2008–2011) and later starred in the American series Pan Am (2011–2012). [cite: 1, 5 in step 2]
- Breakthrough Role: Naomi Lapaglia in Martin Scorsese’s The Wolf of Wall Street (2013). [cite: 1, 10, 12 in step 2]
- Production Company: Co-founder of LuckyChap Entertainment, which has produced films like I, Tonya, Promising Young Woman, and Barbie.
- Notable Roles Post-Focus: Harley Quinn (in the DC Extended Universe), Tonya Harding (I, Tonya), Sharon Tate (Once Upon a Time in Hollywood), and Barbie (Barbie). [cite: 1, 4, 20 in step 2]
The Exact Age of Margot Robbie During the Filming and Release of Focus
The timeline of Focus is crucial to accurately determining Margot Robbie’s age during its production and premiere. The film, written and directed by Glenn Ficarra and John Requa, was a highly anticipated project due to its star-studded cast.
Filming: The 23-Year-Old Ingenue
Principal photography for Focus took place primarily in 2013, with locations including New Orleans and Buenos Aires. [cite: 15, 16 in step 1]
- Margot Robbie's birthday is July 2, 1990.
- She turned 23 on July 2, 2013.
- Key racing scenes were filmed in the summer of 2013, and production wrapped in November 2013. [cite: 15, 16 in step 1]
This means that throughout the majority of the filming process, Margot Robbie was 23 years old, a relatively young age for such a demanding, high-profile lead role opposite a veteran star like Will Smith. Her portrayal had to convincingly convey the rapid evolution of her character, Jess Barrett, from a novice grifter to a seasoned con artist.
Release: The 24-Year-Old Star
The film was theatrically released in the United States on February 27, 2015, by Warner Bros. Pictures. [cite: 1, 2, 10 in step 1]
- Margot Robbie had turned 24 on July 2, 2014.
- She would not turn 25 until July 2, 2015.
Therefore, at the time of the movie's wide release and during the subsequent press tour, Margot Robbie was 24 years old. [cite: 12, 14, 18 in step 1] This fact highlights how quickly she transitioned from her breakout role in The Wolf of Wall Street (2013) to securing a leading role in a major studio film, cementing her status as Hollywood's new "It girl." [cite: 10 in step 2]
Focus: A Pivotal Role After The Wolf of Wall Street
While many consider Martin Scorsese's The Wolf of Wall Street to be her true breakout role, Focus was arguably the film that proved Margot Robbie could carry a major studio project as a leading lady. It was her first lead role after the 2013 black comedy, and it showcased her range beyond the "gold-digging wife" persona. [cite: 10, 18 in step 2]
The Character of Jess Barrett
In Focus, Robbie plays Jess Barrett, a fledgling con artist who attempts to hustle the veteran grifter Nicky Spurgeon, played by Will Smith. The character is sharp, ambitious, and possesses an undeniable magnetic charm. The role required a delicate balance of vulnerability and street smarts, which Robbie delivered convincingly. [cite: 7, 14, 19 in step 2]
The dynamic between Jess and Nicky is the emotional core of the romantic crime thriller. Jess is Nicky's disciple, and their relationship evolves from a professional partnership in the world of pickpocketing and elaborate cons to a complicated romantic entanglement.
The Electric Chemistry with Will Smith
One of the most talked-about aspects of the movie was the "electric chemistry" between Robbie and Will Smith, who was 46 years old at the time of the film’s release. [cite: 12, 14, 16 in step 1, 3, 9 in step 2] The 22-year age gap between the leads sparked significant discussion, but critics and audiences generally agreed that their on-screen dynamic was a major factor in the film's success. [cite: 12, 14, 18 in step 1]
During a chemistry audition for the film, Robbie famously improvised a line, calling Smith a "d---," which reportedly sealed the deal for her casting. This anecdote highlights her natural confidence and ability to hold her own against an established A-lister, traits that are essential to the character of Jess Barrett. [cite: 17 in step 2]
The Legacy of Jess Barrett and Her Path to Global Stardom
The success of Focus directly contributed to Margot Robbie's ascent in Hollywood. The film proved that she could be a successful box office draw and handle complex, layered characters. It was a crucial stepping stone that led to her next major collaboration with Will Smith.
A Stepping Stone to Harley Quinn
The positive working relationship and undeniable chemistry established on the set of Focus were instrumental in Robbie and Smith reuniting shortly after for the DC Extended Universe film Suicide Squad (2016). In Suicide Squad, Robbie took on the iconic role of Dr. Harleen Quinzel, better known as Harley Quinn. [cite: 2, 11 in step 2]
The role of Harley Quinn became a cultural phenomenon and is arguably the character for which she is most widely known. She later reprised the role in Birds of Prey (2020) and The Suicide Squad (2021), demonstrating the longevity of her star power. [cite: 1, 20 in step 2]
From Grifter to Global Icon
Following Focus, Robbie strategically balanced blockbuster roles with critically acclaimed independent films. Her later work, including her Oscar-nominated performance as Tonya Harding in I, Tonya and her universally praised portrayal in Barbie (2023), showcased her producing prowess through LuckyChap Entertainment and her incredible acting versatility. [cite: 4 in step 2]
In retrospect, Focus is more than just a slick heist movie; it’s a vital piece of Margot Robbie’s career puzzle. It’s the film where the 24-year-old actress proved she had the leading lady chops, the star power, and the compelling on-screen presence to become the global icon she is today.
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