Ryan Gosling, the renowned actor known for his versatility and charm, is refusing to back down in the face of criticism regarding his portrayal of Ken in the upcoming “Barbie” film adaptation. As social media erupted with ageist remarks, the 42-year-old actor fired back, calling out the very fans who claim he is too old to play the iconic character. Gosling’s resolute response and thought-provoking insights shed light on the neglected story of Ken and challenge the hypocrisy of those who suddenly profess to care about the eponymous doll.
Age Is Just a Number:
In an exclusive interview with GQ, Ryan Gosling displayed his unyielding confidence as he addressed the critics who questioned his suitability for the role of Ken. “If people don’t want to play with my Ken, there are many other Kens to play with,” Gosling retorted. By dismissing the ageist commentary, he not only embraces his own portrayal of Ken but also highlights the importance of diversity and choice in the world of Barbie.
An Ensemble of Kens:
Gosling’s Ken will not be alone on the silver screen. Alongside him, a talented cast of actors, including John Cena, Simu Liu, Scott Evans, Ncuti Gatwa, and Kingsley Ben-Adir, will embody various versions of the beloved character. This diverse representation underscores the film’s commitment to exploring Ken’s multifaceted persona, captivating audiences with a range of stories and experiences.
The Hypocrisy of Fans:
Ryan Gosling did not shy away from addressing the fans who, according to him, only started caring about Ken when he joined the project. He astutely remarked, “this kind of clutching-your-pearls idea of, like, #notmyken. Like you ever thought about Ken before this?” Gosling’s words reveal the fleeting nature of fans’ loyalty and highlight the contradiction in claiming an attachment to a character they had previously overlooked. The actor’s candid remarks expose the hypocrisy of those who suddenly claim ownership over Ken’s narrative.
Ken’s Untold Story:
Throughout the interview, Gosling passionately advocated for giving Ken a voice and a story beyond his previous portrayal as Barbie’s accessory. He expressed his genuine care for the character, stating, “I’m like his representative. ‘Ken couldn’t show up to receive this award, so I’m here to accept it for him.'” By emphasizing the need to explore Ken’s depth and complexity, Gosling challenges the notion that Ken’s purpose should be limited to being a secondary character.
The Twitterverse Supports Gosling:
While some critics may disparage Ryan Gosling’s casting as Ken, the actor has found overwhelming support from fans on Twitter. Admirers flooded social media platforms, praising him as the “perfect Ken” and expressing their excitement for his portrayal in the forthcoming “Barbie” movie. This outpouring of encouragement demonstrates the unwavering belief in Gosling’s ability to bring Ken to life with authenticity and charisma.
Transformation and Confidence:
During an appearance at CinemaCon in Las Vegas, Gosling revealed his initial doubts about embodying Ken’s energy. However, he credited the film’s director, Greta Gerwig, and his co-star, Margot Robbie, for helping him transcend those doubts. Gosling’s transformation into the confident, physically fit character was a result of their collaboration, turning him from a distant observer of Ken into a fully immersed embodiment of the role.
Conclusion:
Ryan Gosling’s unwavering determination to portray Ken, despite the naysayers, showcases his commitment to challenging stereotypes and breathing new life into a character that has long been overlooked. With his thought-provoking insights and charismatic presence, Gosling aims to unveil the untold story of Ken, dispelling the notion that his purpose should be confined to Barbie’s side. As “Barbie” prepares to hit theaters on July 21, audiences can anticipate a portrayal of Ken that breaks boundaries and leaves a lasting impact.
