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Ryan Gosling

Ryan Thomas Gosling (/ˈɡɒslɪŋ/ GOSS-ling;[1] born November 12, 1980) is a Canadian actor. His work includes both independent films and major studio features, and his accolades include a Golden Globe Award, in addition to nominations for three Academy Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, and two British Academy Film Awards.

Gosling began his acting career when he was 13 on Disney Channel's The All New Mickey Mouse Club (1993–1995), and went on to appear in other family entertainment programs, including Are You Afraid of the Dark? (1995) and Goosebumps (1996). His breakthrough role was that of a Jewish neo-Nazi in The Believer (2001), and he gained stardom in the 2004 romantic drama The Notebook. He starred in the critically acclaimed independent dramas Half Nelson (2006), for which he was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Actor; Lars and the Real Girl (2007); and Blue Valentine (2010).

In 2011, Gosling had three mainstream successes in the romantic comedy Crazy, Stupid, Love, the political drama The Ides of March, and the action thriller Drive. After making his directorial debut with Lost River (2014), he starred in the financial satire The Big Short (2015), the action comedy The Nice Guys (2016), and the romantic musical La La Land (2016). The latter won him a Golden Globe and a second Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Further acclaim followed with the science fiction film Blade Runner 2049 (2017) and the biopic First Man (2018). He played Ken in the fantasy comedy Barbie (2023), which emerged as his highest-grossing release and earned him a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor.

Gosling's band, Dead Man's Bones, released their self-titled debut album and toured North America in 2009. He is a co-owner of Tagine, a Moroccan restaurant in Beverly Hills, California. He is a supporter of PETA, Invisible Children, and the Enough Project and has traveled to Chad, Uganda and eastern Congo to raise awareness about conflicts in the regions. He has been involved in peace promotion efforts in Africa for over a decade. He is in a relationship with actress Eva Mendes, with whom he has two daughters.

Early life

[edit]

Ryan Thomas Gosling was born on November 12, 1980, at St. Joseph's Hospital in London, Ontario;[2] he is the son of Thomas Ray Gosling, a travelling salesman for a paper mill,[3] and Donna, a secretary.[4][5] Both of his parents are of part French Canadian descent, along with some German, English, Scottish, and Irish.[6][7] He and his family were members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints,[8] and Gosling has said that the religion influenced every aspect of their lives.[9] Because of his father's work, they "moved around a lot"[3] and Gosling lived in both Cornwall, Ontario,[10] and Burlington, Ontario.[11] His parents divorced when he was 13,[12] and he and his older sister Mandi lived with their mother,[4] an experience Gosling has credited with programming him "to think like a girl".[13]

Gosling was educated at Gladstone Public School,[14] Cornwall Collegiate and Vocational School and Lester B. Pearson High School.[15] As a child, he watched Dick Tracy and was inspired to become an actor.[16] He "hated" being a child,[9][17] was bullied in elementary school,[18] and had no friends until he was "14 or 15".[19][20] In school he was always picking fights to impress girls.[21] In grade one, having been heavily influenced by the action film First Blood, he took steak knives to school and threw them at other children during recess. This incident led to a suspension.[17] He was unable to read,[22] and was evaluated for attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), but was not diagnosed with it and, contrary to false reports, never took medication.[23] His mother left her job and home-schooled him for a year.[24] He has said homeschooling gave him "a sense of autonomy that I've never really lost".[9] Gosling performed in front of audiences from an early age, encouraged by his sister being a performer.[25] He and his sister sang together at weddings; he performed with Elvis Perry, his uncle's Elvis Presley tribute act,[26] and was involved with a local ballet company.[27] Performing boosted his self-confidence as it was the only thing for which he received praise.[20] He developed an idiosyncratic accent because, as a child, he thought having a Canadian accent did not sound "tough". He began to model his accent on that of Marlon Brando.[28] Gosling dropped out of high school at age 17 to focus on his acting career.[29]

Acting career

[edit]
See also: Ryan Gosling filmography

1993–1999: Career beginnings

[edit]

In 1993, 12-year-old Gosling attended an open audition in Montreal for Disney Channel's revival of The Mickey Mouse Club.[25] After he successfully auditioned, he was given a two-year contract as a Mouseketeer and subsequently moved to Orlando, Florida to film the show.[29] He has said he appeared on-screen infrequently because other children were considered more talented.[30] Nonetheless, he has described the job as the greatest two years of his life.[29] Fellow cast members on the show included Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Justin Timberlake, Keri Russell, and JC Chasez. Gosling has credited the experience with instilling in him "this great sense of focus."[31] He was specifically close friends with Timberlake because they lived together for six months during the second year of the show. Timberlake's mother became Gosling's legal guardian after his own mother had to return to Canada for work reasons.[32] Gosling has said that even though he and Timberlake talk infrequently, they are still supportive of each other.[31]

After the show ended in 1995, Gosling returned to Canada, where he continued to appear in family entertainment television series, including Are You Afraid of the Dark? (1995)[33] and Goosebumps (1996),[33] and starred in Breaker High (1997–98) as Sean Hanlon.[33] When he was 18, he moved to New Zealand to film the Fox Kids adventure series Young Hercules (1998–1999) as the title character.[33] He later said that he initially enjoyed working on the series, but began to care too much about the show, so it was no longer fun for him. He wanted to spend more time sitting with and devising a character as well as play a variety of roles, so he chose to transition into film and not accept any more television work.[29]

2000–2003: Independent films

[edit]

Aged 19, Gosling decided to move into "serious acting". He was dropped by his agent and initially found it difficult to secure work because of the "stigma" attached to children's television.[34] After a supporting role in the football drama Remember the Titans, he secured a lead role as a young Jewish neo-Nazi in 2001's The Believer. Director Henry Bean said he cast Gosling because his Mormon upbringing helped him understand the isolation of Judaism.[35] Kevin Thomas of the Los Angeles Times praised an "electrifying and terrifyingly convincing" performance[36] while Todd McCarthy of Variety felt his "dynamite performance" could "scarcely have been better".[37] The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival[38] and Gosling has described it as "the film that kind of gift-wrapped for me the career that I have now."[26] Because of the controversial nature of the film, it was difficult to secure financial backing for a full theatrical release,[39] and the film was instead broadcast on Showtime.[39] The film was a commercial failure, grossing $416,925 worldwide from a production budget of $1.5 million.[40]

In 2002, Gosling co-starred in the psychological thriller Murder by Numbers with Sandra Bullock and Michael Pitt,[41] where Gosling and Pitt portrayed a pair of high school seniors who believe they can commit the perfect murder. Bullock played the detective tasked with investigating the crime. Lisa Schwarzbaum of Entertainment Weekly described him as "a phenomenal talent even in junk like this"[42] while Todd McCarthy felt that the "strong and "charismatic" young actors were "let down by the screenplay".[43] The film was a minor commercial success, grossing $56 million worldwide from a production budget of $50 million.[44] His second screen appearance of 2002 was in The Slaughter Rule with David Morse which explores the relationship between a high school football player and his troubled coach in rural Montana. Gosling has said that the opportunity to work with Morse made him "a better actor".[45] Stephen Holden of The New York Times described Gosling as "major star material" with a "rawness and an intensity that recall the young Matt Dillon"[46] while Manohla Dargis of the Los Angeles Times was won over by his "raw talent".[47] The film was released in just three US theatres and grossed $13,411.[48]

In 2003, Gosling starred in The United States of Leland as a teenager imprisoned for the murder of a disabled boy. He was drawn to the role because it was unusual to find a character that was "emotionally disconnected for the whole film."[49] Critic Roger Ebert felt that the "gifted actor does everything that can be done with Leland, but the character comes from a writer's conceits, not from life."[50] A. O. Scott of The New York Times noted that he "struggles to rescue Leland from the clutches of cliché"[51] while David Rooney of Variety felt that his "one-note, blankly disturbed act has none of the magnetic edge of his breakthrough work in The Believer".[52] The film grossed $343,847 in the United States and was not released overseas.[53]

2004–2009: The Notebook and Half Nelson

[edit]

Gosling gained mainstream attention in 2004 after starring opposite fellow Canadian Rachel McAdams in the romantic drama film The Notebook, a film adaptation of Nicholas Sparks' novel of the same name, directed by Nick Cassavetes.[54] Gosling played Noah Calhoun and commented on the role: "It gave me an opportunity to play a character over a period of time – from 1940 to 1946 – that was quite profound and formative."[55] He sought to imbue his character with "quiet strength" and was inspired by Sam Shepard's performance in Days of Heaven. Shepard co-starred in The Notebook.[56] Filming took place in Charleston, South Carolina, in late 2002 and early 2003.[57] Although Gosling and McAdams became romantically involved in 2005, they had a combative relationship on the set.[58][59] "We inspired the worst in each other," Gosling has said. "It was a strange experience, making a love story and not getting along with your co-star in any way."[9] At one point, Gosling asked Cassavetes to "bring somebody else in for my off-camera shot" because he felt McAdams was uncooperative.[59] The New York Times praised the "spontaneous and combustible" performances of the two leads and noted that, "against your better judgment, you root for the pair to beat the odds against them."[60] Desson Thomson of The Washington Post praised Gosling's "beguiling unaffectedness" and noted that "it's hard not to like these two or begrudge them a great love together".[61] The film grossed over $115 million worldwide.[62] Gosling won four Teen Choice Awards[63] and an MTV Movie Award.[64] Entertainment Weekly has said that the movie contains the All-Time Best Movie Kiss[65] while the Los Angeles Times has included a scene from the film in a list of the 50 Classic Movie Kisses.[66] The Notebook has appeared on many Most Romantic Movies lists.[67][68][69][70]

Gosling at the 2007 Toronto International Film Festival

In 2005, Gosling appeared as a disturbed young art student in Stay, a psychological thriller film co-starring Naomi Watts and Ewan McGregor. In an uncomplimentary review of the film, Manohla Dargis of The New York Times stated that Gosling "like his fans, deserves better."[71] Todd McCarthy remarked that the "capable" Gosling and McGregor "deliver nothing new from what they've shown before".[72] The film grossed $8 million worldwide.[73] Gosling was unfazed by the negative reaction: "I had a kid come up to me on the street, 10 years old, and he says, 'Are you that guy from Stay? What the f--- was that movie about?' I think that's great. I'm just as proud if someone says, 'Hey, you made me sick in that movie,' as if they say I made them cry."[74]

Gosling next starred in 2006's Half Nelson as a drug-addicted junior high school teacher who forms a bond with a young student. To prepare for the role, Gosling moved to New York for one month before shooting began. He lived in a small apartment in Brooklyn and spent time shadowing an eighth grade teacher.[75] Kenneth Turan of the Los Angeles Times described it as "a mesmerizing performance ... that shows the kind of deep understanding of character few actors manage."[76] Ruthe Stein of the San Francisco Chronicle drew comparisons with Marlon Brando and asserted that "nobody who cares about great acting will want to miss his performance".[77] Roger Ebert believed that his performance "proves he's one of the finest actors working in contemporary movies."[78] Gosling garnered a nomination for the Academy Award for Best Actor.[22] The film grossed $4 million at the worldwide box office.[79] In 2007, he was invited to join the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.[80]

Gosling played an introvert who falls for a sex doll in the 2007 film Lars and the Real Girl. He drew inspiration from James Stewart's performance in Harvey.[81] Roger Ebert felt "a film about a life-sized love doll" had been turned into "a life-affirming statement of hope" because of "a performance by Ryan Gosling that says things that cannot be said".[82] Ann Hornaday of The Washington Post described his performance as "a small miracle ... because he changes and grows so imperceptibly before our eyes."[83] However, Manohla Dargis of The New York Times felt "the performance is a rare miscalculation in a mostly brilliant career."[84] He was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy and a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Male Actor in a Leading Role.[85][86] The film was a box office failure, failing to recoup its $12 million production budget.[87]

Gosling starred opposite Anthony Hopkins in the 2007 courtroom thriller Fracture. He originally turned down the role, but changed his mind when Hopkins signed on.[21] Gosling noted that he was drawn to his character, Willie, because he had flaws and seemed like a real person.[88] He spent time shadowing lawyers and observing courtroom proceedings in preparation for the role.[89] Claudia Puig of USA Today declared that "watching a veteran like Hopkins verbally joust with one of the best young actors in Hollywood is worth the price of admission".[90] Manohla Dargis of The New York Times felt it was a treat to watch "the spectacle of that crafty scene stealer Anthony Hopkins mixing it up with that equally cunning screen nibbler Ryan Gosling ... Each actor is playing a pulp type rather than a fully formed individual, but both fill in the blanks with an alchemical mix of professional and personal charisma."[91] The film grossed over $91 million worldwide.[92]

Gosling was scheduled to begin filming The Lovely Bones in 2007. However, he left the production two days before filming began because of "creative differences" and was replaced by Mark Wahlberg.[93] Gosling was cast as the father of the murdered teenage girl and initially felt he was too young for the role. The director Peter Jackson and the producer Fran Walsh persuaded him that he could be aged with hair and make-up changes.[94] Before shooting began, Gosling gained 60 pounds (27 kilograms) in weight and grew a beard to appear older.[94] Walsh then "began to feel he was not right. It was our blindness, the desire to make it work no matter what."[94] Gosling later said, "We didn't talk very much during the preproduction process, which was the problem ... I just showed up on set, and I had gotten it wrong. Then I was fat and unemployed."[94] He has said the experience was "an important realisation for me: not to let your ego get involved. It's OK to be too young for a role."[95]

2010–2012: Widespread recognition

[edit]

Following a three-year absence from the screen, Gosling starred in five films in 2010 and 2011. "I've never had more energy," Gosling said. "I'm more excited to make films than I used to be. I used to kind of dread it. It was so emotional and taxing. But I've found a way to have fun while doing it. And I think that translates into the films."[34] He has also spoken of feeling depressed when not working.[20] In 2010, he starred opposite Michelle Williams in Derek Cianfrance's directorial debut, the marital drama Blue Valentine. The low-budget film was mainly improvised and Gosling has said "you had to remind yourself you were making a film".[96] Mick LaSalle of the San Francisco Chronicle felt he "brings a preternatural understanding of people to his performance"[97] while A.O. Scott of The New York Times found him to be "convincing as the run-down, desperate, older Dean, and maybe a bit less so as the younger version".[98] Owen Gleiberman of Entertainment Weekly wrote that he "plays Dean as a snarky working-class hipster, but when his anger is unleashed, the performance turns powerful."[99] However, Wesley Morris of The Boston Globe felt the performance was an example of "hipsterism misdirected".[100] He was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama.[101] The film was a box office success, grossing over $12 million worldwide from a production budget of $1 million.[102]

Gosling's second on-screen appearance of 2010 was in the mystery film All Good Things with Kirsten Dunst, based on a true story. He played the role of New York real-estate heir David Marks, who was investigated for the disappearance of his wife (played by Dunst).[103] Gosling found the filming process to be a "dark experience" and did not undertake any promotional duties for the film.[104] When asked if he was proud of the film, he said, "I'm proud of what Kirsten does in the movie."[104] Peter Travers of Rolling Stone wrote that he "gets so deep into character you can feel his nerve endings."[105] Mick LaSalle of the San Francisco Chronicle found the "chameleonic Gosling is completely convincing as this empty shell of a man".[106] Betsy Sharkey of the Los Angeles Times felt that the film belonged to Dunst, but praised Gosling's performance.[107] The film grossed $644,535 worldwide.[108] Also in 2010, Gosling narrated and produced ReGeneration, a documentary that explores the cynicism in today's youth towards social and political causes.[109][110]

Gosling in 2011

2011 saw Gosling expand his horizons by appearing in three diverse, high-profile roles. He co-starred in his first comedic role in the romantic comedy-drama Crazy, Stupid, Love, with Steve Carell and Emma Stone.[111] Gosling took cocktail-making classes at a Los Angeles bar in preparation for his role as a smooth-talking ladies' man.[112] Ann Hornaday of The Washington Post said his "seductive command presence suggests we may have found our next George Clooney".[113] Peter Travers declared him "a comic knockout"[114] while Claudia Puig of USA Today felt he reveals a "surprising" "knack for comedy."[115] He was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy.[116] The film was a box office success, grossing over $142 million worldwide.[117] With adjustments for inflation, it is the fourth most successful of Gosling's career.[118]

Gosling's first action role was in Drive, based on a novel by James Sallis.[119] Gosling played a Hollywood stunt performer who moonlights as a getaway driver, and he has described the film as a "violent John Hughes movie": "I always thought if Pretty in Pink had head-smashing it would be perfect".[120] Roger Ebert compared Gosling to Steve McQueen and stated that he "embodies presence and sincerity ... he has shown a gift for finding arresting, powerful characters [and] can achieve just about anything.[121] Joe Morgenstern of The Wall Street Journal pondered "the ongoing mystery of how he manages to have so much impact with so little apparent effort. It's irresistible to liken his economical style to that of Marlon Brando."[122] The film was a box office success, grossing $81 million worldwide from a production budget of $15 million.[123]

In his final appearance of 2011, Gosling co-starred with Philip Seymour Hoffman in the political drama The Ides of March directed by George Clooney, in which he played an ambitious press secretary.[124] Gosling partly decided to do the film to become more politically aware: "I'm Canadian and so American politics aren't really in my wheelhouse."[125] Joe Morganstern stated that Gosling and Hoffman "are eminently well equipped to play variations on their characters' main themes. Yet neither actor has great material to conjure with in the script."[126] In a generally tepid review, Kenneth Turan of the Los Angeles Times asserted that it was "certainly involving to see the charismatic Gosling verbally spar with superb character actors like Hoffman and [Paul] Giamatti."[127] Mick LaSalle of the San Francisco Chronicle felt there was "one aspect to the character that Gosling can't quite nail down, that might simply be outside his sphere, which is idealism."[128] He was nominated for a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama.[116] The film grossed $66 million worldwide.[129]

In 2012, Gosling filmed Terrence Malick's Song to Song, but the film would not be released until 2017.[130][131]

2013–2014: Mixed critical reception and directorial debut

[edit]
Gosling at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival

In 2013's crime thriller Gangster Squad, Gosling portrayed Sgt. Jerry Wooters, a 1940s LAPD officer who attempts to outsmart mob boss Mickey Cohen (played by Sean Penn). He was reunited with Emma Stone as his love interest, after their earlier pairing in Crazy, Stupid, Love. Stone has said she hopes they will find more projects to work together on.[132] A.O. Scott of The New York Times described the film as an excuse for the cast "to earn some money trying out funny voices and suppressing whatever sense of nuance they might possess."[133] Christy Lemire of The Boston Globe criticized Gosling's "weird, whispery voice" and his "barely developed, one-note" character.[134] However, Betsy Sharkey of the Los Angeles Times felt that there was "a seductive power" in the scenes shared by Gosling and Stone: "But like too much else in the film, it's a scenario that is only half played out."[135]

In The Place Beyond the Pines, a generational drama directed by Blue Valentine's Derek Cianfrance,[136] Gosling played Luke, a motorcycle stunt rider who robs banks to provide for his family.[137] The shoot was described by Gosling as "the best experience I have ever had making a film."[27] A. O. Scott of The New York Times praised his performance, writing: "Mr. Gosling's cool self-possession — the only thing he was allowed to display in "Drive" — is complicated, made interesting, by hints of childlike innocence and vulnerability."[138] Scott Foundas of The Village Voice was unimpressed: "Gosling's character verges on parody ... Gosling uses a soft, wounded half-whisper that tells us this is all some kind of put-on ... It's a close variation on the role Gosling played to stronger effect in Nicolas Winding Refn's existential Hollywood thriller, Drive, where it was clear the character was meant to be an abstraction."[139] David Denby of The New Yorker remarked that he "reprises his inexorable-loner routine".[140] The film grossed $35 million worldwide from a production budget of $15 million.[141]

Later in 2013, Gosling starred in the violent revenge drama Only God Forgives,[142] directed by Drive's Nicolas Winding Refn. Gosling undertook Muay Thai training in preparation for the role,[143] and has described the script as "the strangest thing I've ever read".[143] Both the film and his performance drew negative reviews.[144][145][146] David Edelstein of New York magazine stated, "Gosling looked like a major actor as a skinhead in The Believer and a star in Half Nelson. Then he stopped acting and started posing. His performance in Only God Forgives (would God forgive that title?) is one long, moist stare".[147] Stephen Holden of the New York Times criticized Gosling's inability "to give his automaton any suggestion of an inner life".[148] Peter Travers of Rolling Stone commented that Gosling, while "meant to be a blank page for us to write on, often looks merely blank".[149]

In early 2013, Gosling announced that he was taking a break from acting, stating, "I've lost perspective on what I'm doing. I think it's good for me to take a break and reassess why I'm doing it and how I'm doing it. And I think this is probably a good way to learn about that."[150] Gosling's directorial debut Lost River competed in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2014 Cannes Film Festival.[151] The "fantasy noir", written by Gosling, stars Christina Hendricks, Ben Mendelsohn, and Matt Smith.[152][153] The film received largely unfavorable reviews.[154] Peter Bradshaw of The Guardian found it "insufferably conceited" and remarked that Gosling had lost "any sense of proportion or humility."[155] Robbie Collin of The Daily Telegraph described Lost River as "mind-bogglingly pleased with itself",[156] while Variety's Justin Chang dismissed the "derivative" film as a "train-wreck."[157]

2015–present: Established actor

[edit]
Gosling at the 2017 San Diego Comic-Con

In 2015, Gosling played a bond salesman in the ensemble financial satire The Big Short, a Best Picture nominee at the 2016 Academy Awards. David Sims of The Atlantic felt that he was "smarmily funny, somehow simultaneously magnetic and repulsive; after years wandering the halls of mediocre art cinema, it's wonderful to see him cut loose again."[158] Peter Travers of Rolling Stone said: "Gosling, a virtuoso of verbal sleaze, talks directly to the camera, and he's volcanically fierce and funny."[159] The following year, Gosling starred in the black comedy The Nice Guys, opposite Russell Crowe,[160] and in Damien Chazelle's musical La La Land, for which he won the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Musical or Comedy and received his second Academy Award for Best Actor nomination.[161] Robbie Collin praised his chemistry with co-star Emma Stone, writing: "Both stars are so attuned to each other's pace and flow that their repartee just seems to tumble out, perfectly formed."[162] It emerged as one of his most commercially successful films, with earnings of over $440 million against its $30 million budget.[163]

Gosling was signed on to work with Terrence Malick in 2004 on the biographical film Che, but later dropped out.[164][165] He later starred in Malick's Song to Song (2017), which had been filmed in 2012, and co-starred Rooney Mara, Michael Fassbender, and Natalie Portman.[166][167] Also in 2017, he starred in Blade Runner 2049, a sequel to the 1982 science fiction film Blade Runner, directed by Denis Villeneuve and co-starring Harrison Ford, who reprised his role as Rick Deckard. Gosling's role was as Officer K, a "blade runner" working for the LAPD whose job it is to kill rogue bioengineered humans known as replicants.[168] A. O. Scott found him to be perfectly cast, adding that his "ability to elicit sympathy while seeming too distracted to want it – his knack for making boredom look like passion and vice versa – makes him a perfect warm-blooded robot for our time".[169] Despite being Gosling's largest box office opening, grossing $31.5 million domestically, the film generally underperformed at the box office.[170]

In 2018, Gosling portrayed Neil Armstrong, the astronaut who became the first man to walk on the Moon in 1969, in Chazelle's biopic First Man, based on the book First Man: The Life of Neil A. Armstrong.[171] Writing for IndieWire, Michael Nordine commended him for bringing "quiet charisma" and "grace" to his role, while Nicholas Barber of the BBC hailed him as the "best deadpan actor in the business".[172][173] He received a nomination for the Critics' Choice Movie Award for Best Actor.[174]

After a four-year break from film, Gosling returned starring in the 2022 spy-action thriller The Gray Man, opposite Chris Evans and Ana de Armas.[175] The film had a limited theatrical release and was distributed by Netflix. Despite negative reviews from critics, who described the film as "mediocre" and full of cliches, a sequel has been announced and is in development.[176][177] In the following year, Gosling starred as Ken in Greta Gerwig's fantasy comedy Barbie, opposite Margot Robbie in the title role.[178] He also sang the song "I'm Just Ken" for the film's accompanying soundtrack as well as a cover of "Push" by Matchbox Twenty.[179][180] His performance was acclaimed, with Anthony Lane of The New Yorker lauding his comedic performance as "peak Gosling",[181] and Vulture's Alison Willmore wrote that he "comes close to stealing the movie".[182] He received Golden Globe, Critics' Choice, SAG, BAFTA, and Academy Award nominations for his performance.[183][184][185][186][187] He performed "I'm Just Ken" live at the 96th Academy Awards, where it was nominated for Best Original Song.[188]

Gosling next starred in the action comedy film The Fall Guy alongside Emily Blunt.[189][190] It received positive reviews from critics but did not perform well commercially.[191] Gosling will next produce and star in Project Hail Mary, based on Andy Weir's science fiction novel of the same name.[192]

Music career

[edit]
Main article: Dead Man's Bones
Gosling at a Dead Man's Bones concert in 2009

In 2000, Gosling published a solo album with the misspelled title Angel With Tatooed Wings.[193] The track "Put Me in the Car" from this album was made available for download on the Internet in 2007.[194] Also that year, Gosling and his friend Zach Shields formed the indie rock band Dead Man's Bones. The two first met in 2005 when Gosling was dating Rachel McAdams and Shields was dating her sister, Kayleen.[195][196] They initially conceived of the project as a monster-themed musical but settled on forming a band when they realized putting on a stage production would be too expensive.[195] They recorded their eponymous debut album with the Silverlake Conservatory's Children's Choir and learned to play all the instruments themselves.[195] Gosling contributed vocals, piano, guitar, bass guitar and cello to the record.[196] The album was released through ANTI- Records on October 6, 2009.[197] Pitchfork Media was won over by the "unique, catchy and lovably weird record"[198] while Prefix felt the album was "rarely kitschy and never inappropriate".[199] However, Spin felt the album "doesn't reverse the rule that actors make dubious pop musicians"[200] and Entertainment Weekly criticized its "cloying, gothic preciousness".[201]

In September 2009, Gosling and Shields had a three-night residency at LA's Bob Baker Marionette Theater where they performed alongside dancing neon skeletons and glowing ghosts.[196][202] They then conducted a thirteen-date tour of North America in October 2009, using a local children's choir at every show.[203][204] Instead of an opening act, a talent show was held each night.[205] In September 2010, they performed at Los Angeles' FYF Festival. In 2011, the actor spoke of his intentions to record a second Dead Man's Bones album. No children's choir will be featured on the follow-up album because "it's not very rock 'n' roll".[206]

Personal life

[edit]
Gosling at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival

Gosling previously resided in New York City.[16][207] He co-owns Tagine, a Moroccan restaurant in Beverly Hills, California.[208] He bought the restaurant on an impulse; he said he spent "all [his] money" on it,[209] spent a year doing the renovation work himself, and now oversees the restaurant's menus.[209][210]

Gosling dated his Murder by Numbers co-star Sandra Bullock from 2002 to 2003.[211] He then had a relationship with his The Notebook co-star Rachel McAdams from 2005 to 2007;[212] they briefly reunited in 2008.[213][214]

Gosling has been in a relationship with his The Place Beyond the Pines co-star Eva Mendes since September 2011.[215] They have two daughters, born in 2014 and 2016.[216][217] When asked in a 2022 interview if she and Gosling had married, Mendes said that "I like to keep it all mysterious".[218]

Charity work

[edit]

Gosling supports various social causes. He has worked with PETA to encourage KFC and McDonald's to use improved methods of chicken slaughter, and on a campaign encouraging dairy farmers to stop de-horning cows.[219][220][221]

In 2005, Gosling volunteered in Biloxi, Mississippi, in the clean-up effort following Hurricane Katrina.[222] He is a supporter of Invisible Children, Inc., a group that raises awareness about the Lord's Resistance Army (LRA) in Central Africa.[223] In 2005, he traveled to Darfur refugee camps in Chad.[22][224] He was a speaker at Campus Progress' National Conference in 2008, where he discussed Darfur.[225] As part of his work with the Enough Project, he visited Uganda in 2007[226] and eastern Congo in 2010.[227]

Accolades

[edit]
Main article: List of awards and nominations received by Ryan Gosling

Among his many accolades, Gosling has received three Academy Award nominations, two British Academy Film Award nominations, one Golden Globe Award from six nominations, and six Screen Actors Guild Award nominations.

In 2006, his role as a troubled history teacher in the drama film Half Nelson gained him nominations for an Academy Award[228] and Screen Actors Guild Award[229] for Best Actor. He received nominations for an Academy Award,[230] British Academy Film Award,[231] Golden Globe Award and Screen Actors Guild Award[232] for La La Land (2016) and Barbie (2023) in the Best Actor and Best Supporting Actor categories respectively, winning a Golden Globe Award for the former. His performances in Lars and the Real Girl (2007),[233] Blue Valentine (2010),[234] The Ides of March, and Crazy, Stupid, Love (both 2011);[235] also earned him Golden Globe nominations.

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Ryan Gosling

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Ryan Thomas Gosling (born November 12, 1980) is a Canadian actor, producer, and musician known for his versatility across dramatic, romantic, and action roles in film. Gosling began as a child performer on television series including The Mickey Mouse Club and Canadian shows, transitioning to film in the late 1990s with his breakthrough in the romantic drama The Notebook (2004) and an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor in the independent film Half Nelson (2006). He earned further recognition for roles in the neo-noir thriller Drive (2011), the musical La La Land (2016)—which garnered a Golden Globe win and a second Best Actor Oscar nomination—and the comedy Barbie (2023), resulting in a third Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor. Gosling selects diverse, character-driven projects to avoid typecasting; he has produced films such as The Gray Man (2022) and formed the indie rock band Dead Man's Bones, releasing an album in 2009.

Early life

Family background and childhood

Ryan Thomas Gosling was born on November 12, 1980, at St. Joseph's Hospital in London, Ontario, Canada. He is the son of traveling salesman Thomas Ray Gosling and secretary Donna (née Wilson) Gosling, and has an older sister, Mandi. The family belonged to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and raised Gosling in the Mormon faith within a strict household. Due to his father's employment, the family frequently relocated, including to Cornwall and Burlington, Ontario. His parents divorced during his childhood, after which Gosling and his sister lived primarily with their mother, who homeschooled him to accommodate his needs. Gosling has described his early years as difficult, stating he "hated" childhood, endured bullying in elementary school, and remained friendless until around age 14 or 15. In first grade, inspired by the film First Blood, he mimicked martial arts moves by bringing steak knives to school and throwing them at classmates, leading to suspension and temporary placement in special education before transitioning to homeschooling. He attributed much of his social isolation to the instability of frequent moves.

Entry into entertainment

Gosling showed an early interest in performance, participating in local talent shows in the early 1990s where he sang and danced alongside his sister Mandi. In 1993, at age 12, he auditioned in Montreal for the Disney Channel's revival of The All-New Mickey Mouse Club, securing a two-year contract and appearing on the show from 1993 to 1995 with future stars including Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake. With no prior formal training, this role marked his professional entry into entertainment, providing initial exposure to structured production through singing, dancing, and skits.

Acting career

1993–1999: Television roles and early breakthroughs

Gosling began his professional acting career at age 12, selected from about 17,000 applicants for an open audition in Montreal for The All New Mickey Mouse Club in January 1993. The Disney Channel revival featured him as a Mouseketeer alongside future stars like Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake from 1993 to 1995, offering early exposure in family variety entertainment. After the series ended, Gosling appeared in guest roles on Canadian children's horror anthologies. In 1995, he played Jamie Leary in the Are You Afraid of the Dark? episode "The Tale of Station 109.1," about a boy whose brother contacts a supernatural radio station from the afterlife. In 1996, he starred as Greg Banks in the Goosebumps season 1 episode "Say Cheese and Die," portraying a teen who finds a camera predicting disasters via photos. In 1997, he gained his first leading TV role as Sean Hanlon in Breaker High, a teen comedy-drama that aired 44 episodes over one season through 1998, following students at a cruise ship high school. This showcased his lead potential in ensemble format without formal training. In 1998, he starred as the titular Hercules in Young Hercules, a 50-episode syndicated spin-off from Hercules: The Legendary Journeys that ran until May 1999, depicting the hero's adolescent adventures. These starring roles advanced him from guest spots to sustained leads in international youth programming.

2000–2004: Independent films and The Notebook

Gosling transitioned from television to feature films with supporting roles in mainstream productions before focusing on independent cinema. In 2000, he appeared as Alan Bosley in the sports drama Remember the Titans, directed by Boaz Yakin, portraying a high school football player amid racial integration efforts in 1971 Virginia. His breakthrough in independent film came in 2001 with The Believer, directed by Henry Bean, where he starred as Danny Balint, a brilliant but tormented young Jewish man who embraces neo-Nazism while grappling with self-hatred rooted in religious doubt. The film premiered at the Sundance Film Festival, where it won the Grand Jury Prize, and critics praised Gosling's intense, psychologically layered performance as a catalyst for the character's internal conflict. The role, drawn from real-life inspirations like Dan Burros, highlighted Gosling's ability to embody ideological extremism without endorsing it, earning him early acclaim for dramatic depth at age 20. In 2002, Gosling took on dual indie projects: The Slaughter Rule, a coming-of-age sports drama directed by Andrew J. Smith and Alex Smith, in which he played Roy Chutney, a grieving Montana teenager recruited to quarterback a six-man football team by an enigmatic coach (David Morse), exploring themes of male mentorship and emotional isolation. The film received positive reviews for its authentic rural depiction and Gosling's understated vulnerability. Later that year, he starred opposite Sandra Bullock in the psychological thriller Murder by Numbers, directed by Barbet Schroeder, as Richard Haywood, a sociopathic high school student inspired by Leopold and Loeb to commit a "perfect crime" with his classmate (Michael Pitt). Though the film underperformed critically, Gosling's portrayal of intellectual detachment was noted for its chilling precision. Gosling continued with independent dramas in 2003, leading The United States of Leland, written and directed by Matthew Ryan Hoge, as Leland Fitzgerald, a detached teenager who murders a disabled child and navigates consequences in juvenile detention, intersecting with his journalist father (Kevin Spacey) and a teacher (Don Cheadle) seeking motive in his emotional numbness. The film, praised for its unflinching examination of aimlessness and moral void, featured strong ensemble work but divided critics on its philosophical undertones. The period culminated in 2004 with The Notebook, a romantic drama directed by Nick Cassavetes and adapted from Nicholas Sparks' novel, where Gosling portrayed Noah Calhoun, a working-class lumber mill worker who rekindles a passionate but class-divided love with socialite Allie (Rachel McAdams) across decades, framed by an elderly couple's story (James Garner and Gena Rowlands). Released on June 25, 2004, the film opened to $13.5 million domestically and grossed $81.4 million in North America and $117.8 million worldwide against a $29-30 million budget, becoming a sleeper hit driven by word-of-mouth appeal among younger audiences despite mixed critical reception for its sentimental plotting. Gosling's chemistry with McAdams, who later dated off-screen, was widely credited for the film's emotional resonance, marking his entry into mainstream leading-man status while contrasting his prior indie intensity.

2005–2009: Dramatic turns and critical recognition

In 2005, Gosling starred as Henry Letham, a suicidal art student, in the psychological thriller Stay, directed by Marc Forster and co-starring Ewan McGregor as psychiatrist Sam Foster and Naomi Watts as his girlfriend. The film, released on October 21, 2005, follows Foster's efforts to prevent Letham's suicide amid blurring realities, earning mixed critical reception with a 26% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes based on 119 reviews. Gosling's performance was noted for its intensity, though the film's convoluted narrative drew criticism for lacking coherence. Gosling received significant critical acclaim for his leading role in Half Nelson (2006), portraying Dan Dunne, a junior high school teacher struggling with crack cocaine addiction while mentoring a student. Directed by Ryan Fleck, the independent drama premiered at the Sundance Film Festival on January 25, 2006, and was released theatrically on August 25, 2006. His nuanced depiction of a flawed idealist earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor at the 79th Oscars on February 25, 2007, making him the seventh-youngest nominee in the category at age 26; he lost to Forest Whitaker for The Last King of Scotland. Additionally, Gosling won the Independent Spirit Award for Best Male Lead on February 24, 2007. The film holds a 91% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes from 157 reviews, praised for its raw authenticity and Gosling's restrained yet compelling portrayal. In 2007, Gosling appeared in two contrasting roles: as young prosecutor Willy Beachum in the legal thriller Fracture, opposite Anthony Hopkins, released on April 20, 2007, where he played an ambitious attorney outmaneuvered in a murder case; and as the titular Lars Lindstrom in Lars and the Real Girl, a comedy-drama directed by Craig Gillespie, released on October 12, 2007. In Fracture, his performance supported the film's commercial success, grossing over $156 million worldwide against a $20 million budget, though critics focused more on Hopkins. Lars and the Real Girl featured Gosling as a socially isolated man who forms a relationship with a life-sized doll, earning an 81% Rotten Tomatoes score from 137 reviews for its empathetic handling of delusion and community acceptance. Roger Ebert awarded it 3.5 out of 4 stars, commending Gosling's ability to convey vulnerability without exaggeration. These roles highlighted Gosling's versatility in dramatic and unconventional characters, solidifying his reputation for indie film breakthroughs.

2010–2014: Action roles, versatility, and directorial debut


Gosling starred as Dean Pergament in Blue Valentine, a drama depicting the dissolution of a working-class marriage, released on December 29, 2010. The film paired him with Michelle Williams as Cindy, alternating between their courtship and present-day conflicts. In 2011, Gosling took on the lead role of an unnamed stunt and getaway driver in Drive, an action thriller directed by Nicolas Winding Refn, released on September 16, 2011. He portrayed a Hollywood wheelman who becomes entangled in a heist gone wrong while protecting his neighbor. That year, he also appeared as the suave womanizer Jacob Palmer in the romantic comedy Crazy, Stupid, Love., released July 29, 2011, mentoring a divorcing husband played by Steve Carell. Additionally, in The Ides of March, released October 7, 2011, Gosling played Stephen Meyers, an idealistic campaign aide navigating political betrayal during a presidential primary. Gosling continued exploring action genres in 2013 with roles in Gangster Squad, released January 11, 2013, as Sergeant Jerry Wooters, a dapper LAPD officer targeting mobster Mickey Cohen. In The Place Beyond the Pines, released April 12, 2013, he portrayed Luke Glanton, a motorcycle stunt rider turned bank robber supporting his family. He starred as Julian in Only God Forgives, a Bangkok-set thriller directed by Refn, released July 19, 2013, as a drug dealer seeking vengeance under his mother's influence. In 2014, Gosling made his feature directorial debut with Lost River, a fantasy thriller he also wrote and co-produced, released April 10, 2015, though premiered earlier at Cannes in 2014. The film follows a single mother and her sons in a decaying Detroit suburb, blending elements of fairy tale and horror.

2015–2020: Musical acclaim and commercial hits

In 2016, Gosling starred as the struggling jazz pianist Sebastian Wilder in Damien Chazelle's musical romance La La Land, opposite Emma Stone. He performed vocals and piano for original songs, including the duet "City of Stars" with Stone, which earned an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song. Critics praised the film's score, choreography, and Gosling's authentic portrayal of a musician valuing artistic integrity over commercial success, highlighting his singing and dancing. Gosling received Academy Award, Golden Globe, and Screen Actors Guild nominations for Best Actor. La La Land grossed $151.1 million in the United States and Canada and $509.2 million worldwide on a $30 million budget. Its soundtrack topped charts in multiple countries and sold over 1 million copies in the U.S. Building on his band work with Dead Man's Bones, Gosling's La La Land role marked his first major film singing performance; it influenced later appearances, such as a 2015 Saturday Night Live sketch where he comically auditioned as a soul singer. In 2017, he appeared in Terrence Malick's Song to Song, set in Austin's indie music scene, featuring improvised music sequences, though the film drew mixed reviews for its abstract style. Beyond musical roles, Gosling starred as replicant blade runner K in Denis Villeneuve's 2017 sci-fi sequel Blade Runner 2049, which earned 88% approval on Rotten Tomatoes for its visuals and themes but opened domestically to $31.5 million. In 2018, he portrayed Neil Armstrong in First Man, receiving acclaim for his restrained performance; the film grossed $105 million worldwide. These projects underscored his versatility, with key releases surpassing $600 million in combined box office.

2021–present: High-profile franchises and upcoming projects

In 2022, Gosling starred as CIA operative Court Gentry (Sierra Six) in The Gray Man, an action thriller directed by Anthony and Joe Russo for Netflix. Adapted from Mark Greaney's novel, the film depicts Gentry evading a psychopathic pursuer (Chris Evans), with Ana de Armas and Billy Bob Thornton in supporting roles. Released on July 22, 2022, it logged 253 million viewing hours in its first week, Netflix's second-most-watched English-language premiere then, though critics cited formulaic plotting despite strong action. A sequel, The Gray Man 2, was announced soon after, with Gosling returning, as part of Netflix's spy franchise expansion. Gosling portrayed Ken in Barbie (2023), Greta Gerwig's satirical fantasy comedy produced by Mattel Films and Warner Bros., exploring identity in the doll's world. Co-starring Margot Robbie as Barbie, it premiered July 21, 2023, grossed over $1.4 billion worldwide—the year's highest—and aided Warner Bros.' franchise revival. Gosling's comedic turn, including the Oscar-performed song "I'm Just Ken," earned a Best Supporting Actor nomination and praise for subverting the role. In 2024, Gosling starred in The Fall Guy, David Leitch's action comedy based on the 1980s TV series about stunt performers. As Colt Seavers, a stuntman seeking a missing actor and rekindling romance with producer Jody Moreno (Emily Blunt), it highlighted industry unsung heroes amid stunts. Released May 3, 2024, it earned positive reviews for its homage but grossed $180 million against a $130 million budget. Upcoming roles include leading Project Hail Mary (2026), Phil Lord and Christopher Miller's sci-fi adaptation of Andy Weir's novel for Amazon MGM Studios. Gosling plays Ryland Grace, a science teacher awakening alone on a spaceship to face a solar threat; production wrapped post-2024, with release March 20, 2026. He joins Star Wars: Starfighter (2027) under Shawn Levy for Lucasfilm, plus an Ocean's Eleven origin story.

Music career

Film performances and vocals

Gosling's early film roles featured vocal elements in intimate scenes. In Lars and the Real Girl (2007), he sang "L.O.V.E." during a dance with Patricia Clarkson. In Blue Valentine (2010), he performed "You Always Hurt the One You Love" live to Michelle Williams' character. These instances integrated music into dramatic roles, with vocals secondary to acting. His vocals gained prominence in The Place Beyond the Pines (2013), where he sang the Spanish lullaby "Borriquito" off-key to his infant son in a single take, emphasizing the character's vulnerability. Gosling's most extensive film vocal work was in La La Land (2016) as jazz pianist Sebastian Wilder. He practiced piano two hours daily, six days a week, and sang live on set, including the duet "City of Stars" with Emma Stone and solo pieces. His baritone and self-taught piano earned praise for jazz-inflected subtlety. In Barbie (2023), Gosling performed the original song "I'm Just Ken" in falsetto during musical sequences, expressing his character's existential angst. The track received an Academy Award nomination for Best Original Song in 2024, and he reprised it live at the 96th Academy Awards on March 10, 2024. These efforts shifted toward stylized, comedic vocals.

Dead Man's Bones and independent music

In 2005, Gosling met composer Zach Shields, and they formed the indie rock duo Dead Man's Bones after bonding over interests in ghosts, monsters, and the supernatural. Initially planned as a horror musical film, the project shifted to music, with Gosling on vocals and Shields handling instrumentation and production. The duo emphasized DIY aesthetics, using live children's choirs and drawing from gothic folklore and horror themes. Their self-titled debut album was released on October 6, 2009, via Anti- Records. It featured 13 tracks blending indie folk, chamber pop, and doo-wop with eerie lyrics on hauntings and undead romance, often compared to Arcade Fire or Nick Cave. Recorded in home studios for atmospheric storytelling, the album became a cult release rather than a commercial effort. To promote it, the duo toured 13 North American cities starting October 15, 2009, in New York, incorporating local choirs in Halloween costumes. Gosling sometimes performed as "Baby Goose." No further albums or tours followed, as Gosling prioritized acting; this remains his main independent music project outside film soundtracks.

Personal life

Relationships and family

Gosling dated actress Sandra Bullock from approximately 2001 to 2003, having met on the set of the film Murder by Numbers. He later entered an on-and-off relationship with actress Rachel McAdams from 2005 to 2007, sparked during the production of The Notebook. In 2011, Gosling began a relationship with actress Eva Mendes after co-starring in The Place Beyond the Pines. The couple welcomed their first daughter, Esmeralda Amada Gosling, on September 12, 2014, in Los Angeles. Their second daughter, Amada Lee Gosling, was born on April 29, 2016. Gosling and Mendes have not publicly confirmed a marriage, referring to each other primarily as long-term partners while prioritizing family privacy. The family maintains a low public profile, with Mendes expressing in 2024 a strict policy against her daughters accessing the internet to shield them from online exposure.

Commitment to privacy

Ryan Gosling prioritizes his family's privacy, avoiding public discussions of his daughters, Esmeralda Amada (born 2014) and Amada Lee (born 2016), in interviews and focusing on professional topics during press appearances to shield his home life from tabloid scrutiny. He maintains no active social media presence on platforms like Instagram and Twitter, preventing unwanted exposure and preserving boundaries between career and private life. This absence contrasts with contemporaries who use social media for promotion, highlighting his preference for controlled interactions over constant visibility. Gosling considers family well-being in career choices, declining roles with intense psychological darkness to avoid bringing negativity home, as stated in a 2024 Wall Street Journal interview. He also limits family attendance at high-profile events, such as expressing relief in 2024 that Paris Olympics cameras did not focus on his daughters during a rare outing. His partner, Eva Mendes, supports this by prohibiting their children's access to the internet, smartphones, or social media due to safety concerns, calling the policy "extreme" yet essential in a 2023 statement. Homeschooling further insulates them, reflecting the family's strategy—led by Gosling—to protect against fame's intrusions.

Philanthropy and charitable efforts

Gosling engages in philanthropy through advocacy for human rights in conflict zones and animal welfare, emphasizing awareness-raising and policy influence in collaboration with organizations like the Enough Project, rather than large personal donations. His primary commitment is to the Enough Project, which addresses genocide and crimes against humanity in Africa. Gosling visited Darfurian refugee camps in Chad before 2008, northern Uganda in 2008, and eastern Congo in 2010 with co-founder John Prendergast to assess conflict impacts and support peace efforts. He subsequently advocated before the U.S. Congress, United Nations, and media outlets; spoke on Darfur at a 2008 Washington panel; and discussed human rights in Congo at a 2018 UCLA event. Other contributions include judging the "Come Clean for Congo" YouTube contest against conflict minerals, co-authoring for the 2010 book The Enough Moment by Don Cheadle and Prendergast, and co-hosting a 2016 Omaze fundraising contest with Harrison Ford for the Enough Project and The Sentry. His decade-long involvement was recognized at the 2017 Golden Globes via Moët & Chandon's "Toast for a Cause." In animal welfare, Gosling has backed PETA campaigns through letters urging policy reforms, including a 2003 appeal to KFC Canada for humane chicken treatment, a 2011 request to the U.S. Department of Agriculture to revoke approval for foam-bath euthanasia of chickens, and 2013 opposition to calf dehorning and pig gestation crates. He also affiliates with Mercy For Animals, without documented financial donations. Gosling has joined fundraising linked to media events, such as answering questions on the 2017 Ellen DeGeneres Show at $1,000 each to raise at least $15,000 for breast cancer research, and auctioning a 2022 The Gray Man premiere meet-and-greet with Chris Evans for $276,444 to benefit Christopher's Haven, which aids pediatric cancer patients.

Political views and public stances

Gosling has described himself as detached from American politics due to his Canadian nationality, stating in a 2011 interview that U.S. elections fall outside his primary engagement. He has occasionally supported progressive Democratic figures and international democratic processes. In November 2015, he tweeted a Bernie Sanders video condemning racism on his birthday, asking followers to share it; some interpreted this as an endorsement during the primaries. In June 2016, Gosling voiced openness to a female U.S. president but disavowed formal endorsement, framing his view as promoting dialogue rather than partisanship. He narrated the 2010 documentary ReGeneration, which examines intergenerational political apathy in the U.S. In January 2019, he advocated for transparent election results in the Democratic Republic of Congo after voting delays. Gosling has no recorded donations to U.S. campaigns or parties.

Critical reception and legacy

Praise for versatility and screen presence

Critics have lauded Ryan Gosling's versatility in embodying diverse characters across genres, spanning indie dramas, romantic comedies, musicals, and science fiction. In Half Nelson (2006), his portrayal of a drug-addicted teacher demonstrated an "unknown level of depth," earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. Similarly, in La La Land (2016), he played a jazz-obsessed musician with musical and dramatic flair, receiving an Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe for Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy on January 8, 2017, described as "the most soulful and charming performance of his career." His comedic turn as Ken in Barbie (2023) further highlighted this range, with praise for committing to the role's "ridiculousness" and delivering "comedic gold." Gosling's screen presence has been particularly acclaimed in understated roles, where he conveys intensity through minimalism. In Drive (2011), Roger Ebert noted that Gosling is "a charismatic actor" who "embodies presence and sincerity," elevating the film as a cultural sensation through his brooding Driver. Critics attributed the character's emotional weight to Gosling's "magnetic" quality and "towering performance," marked by tension in his gaze and posture despite sparse dialogue. In Blade Runner 2049 (2017), his "riveting" depiction of a replicant officer simmered with subdued intensity, underscoring emotions beneath a stoic exterior. Dennis Lim of The New York Times observed that Gosling cultivated "a whole gallery of sensitive, intelligent, anguished young men" across blockbusters like The Notebook (2004) and indies such as Blue Valentine (2010). This adaptability, combined with a charismatic persona evident in films like Crazy, Stupid, Love. (2011) and The Ides of March (2011), has positioned him as a consistent leading man capable of carrying projects solo. Over two decades, his filmography reflects "undeniable versatility," transitioning from dramatic roots to singing, dancing, and comedy while maintaining broad appeal.

Criticisms of acting style and role selection

Some reviewers have described Ryan Gosling's acting style as overly restrained and minimalist, relying on subtle facial cues and sparse dialogue that can appear emotionally distant or insufficiently expressive. In Only God Forgives (2013), for example, his taciturn criminal drew criticism for repetitive stares lacking nuance, suggesting his brooding intensity had become formulaic. Audience feedback for All Good Things (2010) similarly faulted his lead performance as wooden and detached, prioritizing aloofness over relatable depth. Critics have identified a pattern in Gosling's role selections, with his preference for "cool, introspective" protagonists in indie dramas or genre hybrids reinforcing typecasting and limiting diversification. This perceived sameness, seen in films like Drive (2011) and The Place Beyond the Pines (2012), has prompted accusations of favoring marketable persona over transformative risks. In recent years, his avoidance of darker, psychologically demanding characters—to preserve emotional availability for his family—has been viewed as narrowing his artistic range, shifting toward lighter fare such as Barbie (2023).

Commercial successes and box office analyses

Gosling's acting roles have contributed to a cumulative worldwide box office gross exceeding $3.6 billion. His commercial breakthroughs occurred in romantic dramas and comedies, with The Notebook (2004) marking an early success by earning $116 million globally against a $29 million budget, driven by strong domestic performance of $81 million. Later, Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011) achieved $146 million worldwide, benefiting from its ensemble rom-com appeal and moderate production costs.
FilmRelease YearWorldwide GrossKey Notes on Performance
Barbie2023$1,447,685,476Highest-grossing; propelled by IP marketing and cultural buzz, with Gosling in supporting role as Ken.
La La Land2016$504,618,524Profitable on $30 million budget; awards momentum boosted earnings post-limited release.
Blade Runner 20492017$259,154,159Underperformed relative to $150-185 million budget and marketing; higher international share but studio loss.
Crazy, Stupid, Love2011$146,493,974Solid mid-budget return; domestic-led with ensemble draw.
The Notebook2004$116,223,302Early hit; 70% domestic share from romantic appeal.
Box office analyses indicate Gosling's successes correlate more with project-specific factors—such as genre popularity, co-star pairing, directorial pedigree, or franchise elements—than consistent leading-man draw. La La Land's trajectory exemplifies this, starting with limited release earnings before expanding to $151 million domestic via critical acclaim and Oscar buzz, yielding high profitability on low risk. In contrast, high-budget entries like Blade Runner 2049 highlighted risks, grossing insufficiently to offset costs despite visual spectacle. Barbie's $1.4 billion haul represented a pivot, leveraging Mattel IP and Greta Gerwig's direction over Gosling's star power alone, though his Ken portrayal amplified merchandising tie-ins. Recent efforts like The Fall Guy (2024), at $181 million, underscore ongoing variability, underperforming expectations for a stunt-driven action-comedy. Overall, Gosling's career favors selective high-upside projects over volume, prioritizing artistic fit amid mid-budget preferences that limit mega-blockbuster consistency.

Cultural impact and public persona

Gosling's public persona emphasizes restraint and authenticity, including avoidance of social media and limited personal disclosures, which contrasts with contemporary celebrity oversharing. In interviews, he conveys thoughtfulness and humor through self-deprecation when addressing career or roles, as shown in The Ellen DeGeneres Show discussions of off-screen co-star dynamics. This style presents him as grounded, aligning with his selective project choices. His cultural influence includes memes and stylistic trends from key roles. The "Hey Girl" meme, starting in 2008 on Tumblr after The Notebook (2004) boosted his romantic lead image, pairs edited Gosling photos with affectionate or empowering captions, including variants like Feminist Ryan Gosling that spread widely online. In Drive (2011), his scorpion-embroidered jacket, white T-shirt, slim jeans, and leather boots inspired menswear and car culture trends, with replicas popular among fans. Portrayals of brooding protagonists in Drive and Blade Runner 2049 (2017) fueled "literally me" memes, where fans—especially young men—identify with their introspective resilience on social media. Internationally, in China, he is known by the internet slang nickname "高司令" (Gāo Sīlìng, Commander Gao), derived from the phonetic similarity to "高斯林" (Gāo Sīlín), the Mandarin transliteration of his surname. Gosling's role as Ken in Barbie (2023) deepened his impact by subverting doll tropes to examine identity and patriarchy; his performance and "I'm Just Ken" added pathos to comedy, sparking talks on masculinity and aiding the film's $1.44 billion box office through an empathetic male lead. These aspects position Gosling as linking indie authenticity to mainstream icons, with role-driven memes maintaining his unique cultural presence beyond typical promotion.

Accolades

Major awards won

Ryan Gosling won the Golden Globe Award for Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy for his role as Sebastian Wilder in La La Land (2016), presented at the 74th ceremony on January 8, 2017. This was his only win among major industry awards. In 2001, he received the Golden Aries Award for Best Foreign Actor from the Russian Guild of Film Critics for The Believer. Gosling has not won an Academy Award, British Academy Film Award, or Screen Actors Guild Award for acting.

Notable nominations and honors

Gosling received three Academy Award nominations: Best Actor for Half Nelson (2007) and La La Land (2017), and Best Supporting Actor for Barbie (2024). He has earned six Golden Globe nominations, including Best Actor in a Musical or Comedy for Lars and the Real Girl (2008), Best Actor in a Drama for Blue Valentine (2011), and Best Supporting Actor for Barbie (2024). Gosling garnered two BAFTA nominations: Best Leading Actor for La La Land (2017) and Best Supporting Actor for Barbie (2024). Other honors include a 2024 Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Guest Actor in a Comedy Series for his Saturday Night Live appearance promoting Barbie, as well as multiple Critics' Choice nominations, such as Best Actor for Half Nelson (2007) and La La Land (2017).

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  56. https://www.wired.com/story/blade-runner-2049-what-happened/
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  60. https://www.movieinsider.com/p348/ryan-gosling
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  65. https://hiddenremote.com/posts/barbie-isn-t-the-only-movie-ryan-gosling-sings-in-here-are-3-other-movies-to-watch-01hr551dt17t
  66. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ANbkNhU4VSY
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  68. https://screenrant.com/ryan-gosling-singing-movies-shows-dancing-barbie/
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  70. https://variety.com/2017/film/in-contention/city-of-stars-song-la-la-land-ryan-gosling-emma-stone-1201990849/
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  83. https://people.com/music/ryan-gosling-made-halloween-album-dead-mans-bones/
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  89. https://people.com/all-about-ryan-gosling-eva-mendes-kids-7502691
  90. https://www.nbc.com/nbc-insider/about-ryan-gosling-family-wife-eva-mendez-kids-more
  91. https://nypost.com/2024/10/20/entertainment/eva-mendes-has-extreme-stance-on-her-children-with-ryan-gosling-accessing-the-internet-youll-be-fine/
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  93. https://www.nickiswift.com/1145827/why-you-wont-find-ryan-gosling-on-social-media/
  94. https://www.eviemagazine.com/post/ryan-gosling-says-he-doesn-t-take-on-dark-acting-roles-for-the-sake-of-his-family
  95. https://www.buzzfeednews.com/article/leylamohammed/eva-mendes-grateful-ryan-gosling-kids-privacy-olympics
  96. https://www.eonline.com/news/1382281/eva-mendes-reveals-why-her-and-ryan-goslings-daughters-dont-have-access-to-the-internet
  97. https://enoughproject.org/upstanders/celebrity/ryan-gosling
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  103. https://www.eonline.com/news/404588/ryan-gosling-teams-up-with-peta-to-fight-cruelty-to-cows
  104. https://www.eonline.com/news/438367/ryan-gosling-protecting-pigs-a-tiny-cage-is-not-a-life
  105. https://bookingagentinfo.com/celebrity/ryan-gosling/philanthropy/
  106. https://toofab.com/2017/10/06/ryan-gosling-harrison-ford-nickname-blade-runner-2049-ellen-degeneres-brian/
  107. https://people.com/health/chris-evans-ryan-gosling-raise-thousands-pediatric-cancer-patients-fundraiser/
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