Introduction to Ryan Gosling as Ken

Ryan Gosling, an actor whose rise to fame was a mixture of heartthrob good looks and undeniable talent, has carved out a niche in Hollywood as one of its most versatile performers. With a career spanning from indie gems like Drive to award-winning musicals such as La La Land, Gosling’s ability to shape-shift into any character thrown his way has made him a fan favorite. In 2023, however, he stepped into an entirely new role—one that is quintessentially part of American pop culture: Ken, the iconic doll from Mattel’s Barbie universe. Playing Ken might seem like a departure from his usual roles, but Gosling infused the character with a layered, humorous, and endearing personality that resonated deeply with audiences. It’s this very approach that made his portrayal of Ken stand out from past iterations, proving that even in a world filled with plastic dolls, Gosling’s Ken could be so much more than just Barbie’s accessory.

In an interview with GQ, Gosling offered fans a unique glimpse into Ken’s world by revealing the 10 essential items that Ken—at least his version of Ken—couldn’t live without. What’s particularly fascinating about this feature is how it not only celebrates Ken’s persona but also gives fans insight into Gosling’s sense of humor, personal tastes, and his creative process in reimagining Ken for modern audiences.

Overview of the GQ Feature: The 10 Essential Items Ken Can’t Live Without

When GQ sat down with Ryan Gosling to discuss his portrayal of Ken, they did what GQ does best—blending high fashion with personality, humor, and a bit of behind-the-scenes magic. In this particular feature, Gosling unveiled ten must-have items that he believes Ken couldn’t survive without. The list, of course, was crafted with a playful nod to Ken’s classic persona but also reflected Gosling’s own quirks and clever interpretations.

For Ryan Gosling, these ten items weren’t just about style or accessory—each pick offered a glimpse into how he crafted a Ken who could exist not just in a dream house, but in today’s culture. The objects were both whimsical and practical, a perfect reflection of the way Gosling injected humor and relatability into Ken, making the character more than just a doll, but a vessel for storytelling, imagination, and a touch of personal flair.

Ryan’s Personal Touch: Humor Meets Heart

What separates Ryan Gosling’s Ken from previous versions isn’t just the snappy wardrobe or chiseled jawline. It’s Gosling’s knack for blending humor with sincerity that gives his version of Ken a life of his own. In selecting these 10 essential items, Gosling effortlessly reveals parts of himself—his style, his comedic timing, and even his self-awareness—as they bleed into Ken’s own tastes and preferences.

From items as practical as sunglasses to humorous as rollerblades, Gosling doesn’t just select things for Ken; he chooses objects that help tell the story of a Ken who’s funny, self-aware, and a little bit self-deprecating. Gosling’s choices echo his portrayal of the character on screen—both an homage to Ken’s roots and a playful re-imagining of what it means to be “Kenough” in today’s world.

The 10 Must-Have Items

Here’s a breakdown of the 10 things Gosling’s Ken can’t live without, each one more delightfully telling than the next:

1. Sunglasses
   Ken has always been a guy who loves his sun, and Ryan Gosling’s Ken is no exception. Gosling picked a pair of aviator sunglasses, giving Ken a touch of classic cool. Whether Ken’s cruising in his convertible or chilling by the beach, sunglasses are a must—not just for their style but for the confident aura they project.
2. Rollerblades
   A playful nod to both 80s nostalgia and the film’s vibrant energy, rollerblades made the cut. These aren’t just any rollerblades; they’re neon, a reflection of Ken’s boundless energy and a throwback to the days when life was a nonstop beach party.
3. Denim Jacket
   Gosling’s Ken is all about that classic Americana vibe, so naturally, a denim jacket made the list. It’s an essential piece in any casual wardrobe and speaks to Ken’s laid-back, effortlessly cool style. Plus, it’s a wink to the cowboy aesthetic that Gosling’s Ken channels in key scenes.
4. A Surfboard
   No Ken would be complete without his surfboard, but Gosling’s pick was all about vibe—sleek, minimalist, and maybe not used as much as displayed. It’s not about being a master surfer, but about living the dream of endless summer, even if Ken’s more about posing with the board than hitting the waves.
5. A Hairbrush
   With those perfect locks, a hairbrush is more than just a necessity for Ken—it’s an extension of his identity. Gosling, tongue firmly in cheek, ensures that Ken always looks his best, knowing that his perfectly coiffed hair is part of his charm.
6. A Pair of White Sneakers
   Timeless and versatile, white sneakers were another must-have. They reflect Ken’s laid-back, all-American style, ensuring he’s ready for everything from beach volleyball to a night out (with Barbie, of course).
7. An Acoustic Guitar
   Gosling’s Ken can’t strum a tune to save his life, but that’s not the point. The guitar is more about image—showing that Ken has depth, or at least, the illusion of it. In a way, it’s a clever wink at how Ken has often been portrayed as a sidekick to Barbie, with just enough of a mysterious side to make you wonder if there’s more.
8. A Gold Chain Necklace
   Every man needs a little flair, and Gosling’s Ken isn’t afraid to accessorize. The gold chain is flashy yet classy, adding a touch of sparkle to his otherwise sun-drenched, easygoing look. It’s Gosling’s way of injecting a little swagger into Ken’s persona.
9. A Ken-branded Fanny Pack
   Practical and humorous, a fanny pack is the perfect accessory for a Ken who’s always on the go. But Gosling’s pick wasn’t just about function—this fanny pack was branded with “Ken,” solidifying the doll’s status as an icon who knows his own worth.
10. A Refillable Water Bottle
    Finally, in a nod to today’s focus on sustainability, Gosling included a refillable water bottle. Ken might be from a world of plastic, but that doesn’t mean he can’t be eco-conscious. This choice reflects Gosling’s awareness of modern concerns and shows that Ken, too, is trying to stay hydrated and responsible.

The Cultural Significance of Ken

Ken has always been more than just a doll. He’s a symbol of masculinity and pop culture, evolving alongside changing societal standards. While Ken has traditionally played second fiddle to Barbie, the character holds a special place in the collective imagination. Ryan Gosling’s portrayal of Ken marks a pivotal moment where the character steps into the spotlight in a more dynamic and layered way. This version of Ken, with his flaws, quirks, and even insecurities, feels more in tune with modern audiences. Gosling manages to turn Ken into more than just Barbie’s arm candy, portraying him as an individual with a sense of humor and, perhaps, a deeper story waiting to be told.

Ryan’s Ken vs. Classic Ken

What makes Gosling’s Ken stand out is how the character contrasts with the classic portrayal. Traditional Ken is often seen as static—a doll with limited personality, always dressed to match Barbie, and often playing the supportive role. But Gosling’s Ken breaks that mold. In his hands, Ken becomes self-aware, a little bit insecure, but ultimately loveable. There’s an ironic edge to Gosling’s portrayal that hints at the absurdity of Ken’s existence while also celebrating it. The character isn’t just a figure of perfection anymore; he’s relatable, even vulnerable at times.

Fan Reactions to the GQ Feature

Fans and media outlets alike were quick to praise Ryan Gosling’s GQ feature. Social media was flooded with reactions to the 10 essential items, with many applauding how Gosling managed to blend humor with authenticity. “Ken’s fanny pack is everything,” one fan tweeted, while others commented on how the inclusion of the refillable water bottle showed that even Ken was keeping up with the times. The general consensus was clear: Gosling had found the perfect balance between staying true to the legacy of Ken and giving the character new depth.

Conclusion: A Ken to Remember

Through his portrayal of Ken and the carefully chosen items in GQ, Ryan Gosling has done more than just bring a doll to life—he’s redefined what it means to be Ken in the 21st century. His choices blend humor, style, and a subtle commentary on the cultural weight of the character. Gosling’s Ken is no longer just a sidekick; he’s a fully-fledged icon in his own right. By adding his personal touch, Ryan Gosling gave us a Ken who isn’t just plastic—he’s fantastically real.