Ryan Gosling‘s Oscar nominee statement was a bit less celebratory than most, directly calling out Greta Gerwig’s Best Director snub, as well as Margot Robbie’s for Best Actress.
“I am extremely honored to be nominated by my colleagues alongside such remarkable artists in a year of so many great films,” the actor said in a statement. “And I never thought I’d be saying this, but I’m also incredibly honored and proud that it’s for portraying a plastic doll named Ken.
“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,” he continued. “No recognition would be possible for anyone on the film without their talent, grit and genius. 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 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.”
Ryan Gosling was nominated January 23 in the Best Supporting Actor category for his beloved role as Ken in “Barbie.” Additionally, in a bit of a happy surprise, America Ferrera was nominated for Best Supporting Actress. Among other nominations, “Barbie” scored noms for Best Adapted Screenplay (Noah Baumbach and Greta Gerwig) and Best Picture, but missed Best Actress (Robbie) and Best Director, where it was widely expected to compete. “Barbie” received eight total nominations.
“Barbie,” grossing over one billion dollars, was a clear fan-favorite, and the snubs certainly rattled around the internet Tuesday. Ferrera, while noting appreciation for her own nomination, also expressed dismay over the smaller-than-expected total, saying she was “incredibly disappointed” Gerwig and Robbie were not nominated in their respective categories.
“Greta has done just about everything that a director could do to deserve it,” Ferrera said. “Creating this world, and taking something that didn’t have inherent value to most people and making it a global phenomenon. It feels disappointing to not see her on that list.”
The Oscar winners will be announced on March 10, 2024. The ceremony will air live on ABC at 7 p.m. ET.
