Margot Robbie's Pre-Fame London Life in a Cramped Clapham House
The Australian actress Margot Robbie, now a global superstar known for roles in Barbie and The Wolf of Wall Street, once led a far more modest existence in South London. Before her Hollywood breakthrough, she resided in a shared house in Clapham, affectionately dubbed 'The Manor', where she lived with six people, including her now-husband Tom Ackerley.
Life in 'The Manor': A Shared House Experience
During interviews over the years, Robbie has openly discussed her time in London, describing it as a period that could potentially inspire a movie. In 2022, while promoting Babylon, she reflected on this chapter, noting that her housemates from the Clapham property attended the premiere and remarked on the similarities between the film's opening scenes and their shared living situation.
Back in 2016, despite already gaining recognition for her acting work, Robbie chose to live in this communal setting with Ackerley and four mutual friends. Reports indicate that the accommodation was selected to suit the budget of the least well-paid among them, showcasing her down-to-earth approach to life. One guest recalled her bedroom as chaotic, with an unmade bed and clothes scattered across the floor, highlighting the unglamorous reality of her pre-fame days.
Embracing Clapham's Local Culture
Robbie has expressed a deep affection for Clapham, describing it as unassuming and a place where she could live comfortably without undue attention. She particularly enjoyed the area's vibrant nightlife, with Infernos club holding a special place in her heart. In a conversation with Capital Breakfast presenter Sian Welby, Robbie confirmed her frequent visits to the venue, which is known for its sticky carpets and legendary status among revellers since 1985.
She humorously noted that Infernos is often used as a filming location, with friends on crew mentioning its distinct odour during daytime shoots. This connection to local hotspots underscores her integration into London life, far removed from the glitz of Hollywood.
A Glimpse into Robbie's Personality and Preferences
Robbie's preference for straightforward, communal living is evident from her comments. She stated that living with many people reminded her of her childhood home, emphasising her value for simplicity and camaraderie. Even as her career flourished with roles in films like About Time and The Legend of Tarzan, she maintained this lifestyle while in London.
Co-star Alexander Skarsgard, who worked with her on The Legend of Tarzan, characterised her as "not precious at all", noting her willingness to embrace a 'frat-house vibe' and adventurous weekends, such as sleeping in bunk beds in Amsterdam hostels or attending music festivals in northern England. This paints a picture of a star who, despite her rising fame, remained grounded and connected to her roots during her London years.
