Many are saying that Ryan Gosling should have waited for his anger and frustration to simmer down before sharing that lengthy statement about the Barbie movie and its main contributors, Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig, getting snubbed of recognition for the 2024 Oscars.
Ryan Gosling, who was nominated for best-supporting actor, was furious upon discovering that Robbie did not get a nod for best actress and Gerwig was left out in the best director category.
Without hesitation and most likely without his PR people approving his words, the actor dropped a fiery statement blasting the Academy Awards for their decision to ignore his female colleagues.
Ryan Gosling said in his statement via The Wrap: “I am extremely honored to be nominated by my colleagues alongside such remarkable artists in a year of so many great films. And I never thought I’d being saying this, but I’m also incredibly honored and proud that it’s for portraying a plastic doll named Ken.”
He continued: “But there is no Ken without Barbie, and there is no Barbie movie without Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie, the two people most responsible for this history-making, globally-celebrated film. No recognition would be possible for anyone on the film without their talent, grit and genius.”
The father of two shared: “To say that I’m disappointed that they are not nominated in their respective categories would be an understatement. Against all odds with nothing but a couple of soulless, scantily clad, and thankfully crotchless dolls, they made us laugh, they broke our hearts, they pushed the culture and they made history. Their work should be recognized along with that of the other very deserving nominees. Having said that, I am so happy for America Ferrera and the other incredible artists who contributed their talents to making this such a groundbreaking film.”
He also added: “Against all odds with nothing but a couple of soulless, scantily clad, and thankfully crotchless dolls, they made us laugh, they broke our hearts, they pushed the culture, and they made history. Their work should be recognized along with the other very deserving nominees.”
In an interview with Variety, America Ferrera, who starred in the Barbie movie and who is nominated for an Oscar, was more blunt: “I was incredibly disappointed that they weren’t nominated.”
Former presidential candidate Hillary Clinton also weighed in on the scandal saying: “While it can sting to win the box office but not take home the gold, your millions of fans love you. You’re both so much more than Kenough.”
While many, who loved and appreciated the Barbie movie, agree with what Gosling did, others claimed that he should have been more professional and understood that sometimes some teammates do not win, and that is still part of the game.
Despite the angry statement, Gosling has taken the hypocritical decision not to forfeit his Oscar nod and will attend the 94th Academy Awards.
A source told The Daily Mail: “He understands people are upset because he is upset as well, but he is not going to be swayed by what anyone is saying online. Ryan is honored that he has been nominated and the film has been nominated.”
The insider added: “In the chance he does win or if he performs I’m Just Ken, he will honor Margot and Greta in one way or another. He is not looking to make this into something more than it has become. He spoke about it and people should take what he said seriously because he meant every single word.”
Some observers are now wondering if the statement will not hurt Gosling’s chances.
