Ryan Gosling, nominated for best supporting actor in the 2024 Oscars, has expressed disappointment regarding the lack of nominations for his “Barbie” co-stars Margot Robbie and director Greta Gerwig. In a statement shared with media outlets, including CNN and The Hollywood Reporter, Gosling highlighted his gratitude for the nomination but emphasized the integral roles played by Robbie and Gerwig in the success of the film.
Despite receiving eight nominations at the 96th Academy Awards, including best picture, best adapted screenplay, best original song, best costume design, and best production design, the absence of recognition for Robbie and Gerwig in the acting and directing categories disappointed Gosling. He acknowledged that the groundbreaking and globally celebrated film wouldn’t have been possible without their talent, grit, and genius.
In his statement, Gosling expressed his pride in portraying the character Ken in “Barbie” and underscored the inseparable connection between Ken and Barbie, crediting Gerwig and Robbie as the driving forces behind the film’s historic success. He conveyed his disappointment at their omission from their respective categories, emphasizing that their work deserved recognition alongside other deserving nominees.
While acknowledging his happiness for co-star America Ferrera and other contributors to the film’s success, Gosling passionately advocated for the acknowledgment of Gerwig and Robbie’s contributions to the groundbreaking nature of “Barbie.” He praised their ability to make audiences laugh, evoke emotion, impact culture, and create history against all odds.
Ferrera, echoing Gosling’s sentiments, expressed disappointment at Gerwig and Robbie’s absence from the nominations. She lauded Gerwig’s directorial achievements, describing how she transformed a concept with limited inherent value into a global phenomenon. Ferrera conveyed her disappointment at not seeing Gerwig on the list of nominees.
Regarding Robbie, Ferrera commended her acting prowess, describing her as a magician on screen who effortlessly makes everything look easy. Despite the seeming ease of her performances, Ferrera emphasized Robbie’s mastery as an actress and shared her personal honor in witnessing Robbie deliver an extraordinary performance in “Barbie.” She highlighted Robbie’s ability to infuse heart, humor, depth, joy, and fun into her character, considering her a master in her craft.
As the Oscars approach, the spotlight on “Barbie” and its nominations continues to draw attention to the nuanced dynamics within the film industry. Gosling’s candid expression of disappointment serves as a testament to the passion and investment actors have in recognizing the collaborative efforts that contribute to the success of a film, extending beyond individual performances.
In the realm of Oscar snubs, Gosling’s sentiments resonate, bringing to light the subjective nature of nominations and the diverse perspectives within the industry regarding what merits recognition. As the film industry navigates its evolving landscape, discussions around representation, acknowledgment, and the art of storytelling remain integral to shaping the narrative of Hollywood’s prestigious awards.