In a recent revelation, Ryan Gosling shared that his daughters, Esmeralda and Amada, are not allowed to watch the “Barbie” movie. This decision stems from a desire to keep his on-screen persona of Ken separate from their innocent playtime with Barbie dolls. Gosling, who shares his daughters with actress Eva Mendes, believes that seeing him as Ken could lead to confusion and a mix of reality with fantasy for his young children.
The Protective Dad’s Perspective
Gosling’s protective stance on this matter was highlighted in an interview with E! News, where he humorously mentioned, “I don’t know if you should watch your father as Ken. I don’t know what age is a good age to see your father do that. It gets pretty crazy.” This light-hearted yet thoughtful approach underscores his intent to shield his daughters from the complexities of his roles, especially one as iconic and culturally significant as Ken.
The actor’s concern is not just about the portrayal but also about the potential impact it might have on his daughters’ perception of their toys and their father. Gosling’s decision reflects a broader consideration for his children’s mental and emotional development, ensuring that their childhood remains untainted by the surreal aspects of Hollywood.
A Glimpse Behind the Scenes
Though Esmeralda and Amada haven’t watched the full movie, they did get a sneak peek into the world of Barbie. Gosling revealed that they visited the set one day, witnessing their father in the midst of a grand musical number. This visit, albeit brief, left a lasting impression on the young girls. Gosling recounted, “They’ve seen little parts of it, and they came to set one day when I did a big musical number.”
Their visit to the set was not just a family outing but a window into their father’s professional world. The girls’ reaction was a blend of awe and curiosity. Gosling noted their subtle yet growing fascination with Barbie. “I knew that they loved it because they kept saying at first, ‘Hey, can we go to Target?’ And we go to Target, and then they’d slowly go by the Barbie aisle,” he said. This newfound interest eventually led Gosling and Mendes to decide that it was time to introduce Barbies into their daughters’ lives, marking a significant parenting milestone.
The Ken Conundrum
Interestingly, despite their interest in Barbies, Gosling observed that his daughters showed no particular interest in Ken dolls. “They have no interest in Ken, which was pretty interesting, too,” he remarked. This observation adds a humorous twist to the narrative, as it highlights the unique dynamics between children and their perceptions of toys and characters.
A Milestone in Gosling’s Career
The “Barbie” movie has not just been a family affair but a significant milestone in Gosling’s career. The actor went viral during the 2024 Critics Choice Award after winning Best Song for Barbie’s “I’m Just Ken.” His visible confusion and surprise upon hearing the announcement captured the hearts of many, making the moment memorable.
Collaborating with renowned music producer Mark Ronson, Gosling’s performance in the film and his musical talents have been widely praised. This recognition has led fans to urge him to revisit his musical roots with his band Dead Man’s Bones, showcasing his versatility beyond acting.
Balancing Fame and Family
Gosling’s approach to balancing his public persona with his private life is commendable. His efforts to protect his daughters from the potential pitfalls of fame while still allowing them glimpses into his world demonstrate a thoughtful and deliberate parenting style. By keeping certain aspects of his work life separate from his family life, Gosling ensures that his daughters’ upbringing remains as normal and grounded as possible.
The Impact of ‘Barbie’ on Pop Culture
The “Barbie” movie has been a cultural phenomenon, breaking records and garnering widespread acclaim. Gosling’s portrayal of Ken has been a standout, adding depth and humor to the character. This film not only redefined the iconic toy but also brought forward conversations about gender roles, identity, and societal expectations.
The Future of Gosling’s Career
With the success of “Barbie” and the acclaim for “I’m Just Ken,” Gosling’s career is poised for even greater heights. The actor, known for his versatility and dedication to his craft, continues to push boundaries and explore new creative avenues. Whether through acting, music, or other artistic endeavors, Gosling’s future projects are eagerly anticipated by fans and critics alike.
A Family-Centric Approach
Ultimately, Gosling’s decision to keep his daughters away from the “Barbie” movie is rooted in his love and concern for their well-being. His thoughtful approach to parenting, combined with his ability to seamlessly navigate the demands of Hollywood, sets a powerful example for balancing career and family life.
In a world where the lines between reality and fiction often blur, Gosling’s protective stance serves as a reminder of the importance of shielding young minds from the complexities of adult life, allowing them to enjoy their childhood in its purest form. As Esmeralda and Amada grow, they will undoubtedly come to appreciate the lengths their father went to preserve their innocence, even amidst the dazzling allure of Hollywood.