The Barbie movie has been generating immense excitement among fans as it brings together an ensemble cast of A-list actors to portray the iconic Ken dolls. With heartthrobs like Ryan Gosling, Simu Liu, and Kingsley Ben-Adir making the cut, the casting directors behind the film reveal the stars who were almost cast as Kens but had to bow out due to logistical challenges. The movie’s filming location in London presented certain constraints, leading to some actors, including Bowen Yang, Dan Levy, and Ben Platt, being unable to take up residence in Barbieland.
The Ken Roles That Almost Were
Casting director Allison Jones disclosed that some beloved actors nearly secured the coveted role of Ken but ultimately couldn’t participate due to the filming location. Saturday Night Live star Bowen Yang, known for his comedic prowess, Schitt’s Creek alum Dan Levy, and the talented Dear Evan Hansen actor Ben Platt were among the actors who were “bummed they couldn’t do it.” These actors would have undoubtedly brought their unique charm and talent to the Ken character, making the final casting decision even more intriguing.
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Michael Cera’s Journey into Barbieland
Among the confirmed Ken actors, Michael Cera shines as Allan, Ken’s buddy in the Barbie movie. The actor shared his experience of stepping into the world of make-believe and praised the film’s attention to detail. He marveled at the set’s meticulous design, which created a stunning backdrop for the film’s story. As Allan, Michael immersed himself in the fantasy world, portraying his character with dedication and bringing a sense of wonder to the screen.
Margot Robbie’s Persistence in Casting Ryan Gosling
As Barbie’s lead actress and producer, Margot Robbie was determined to have Ryan Gosling play Ken in the film. His character, hilariously named “Ken Ryan Gosling” in the script, was written with the actor in mind. Margot playfully admitted that they wouldn’t take no for an answer, and she was willing to go the extra mile to secure him for the role. With persistence and a little teasing from her co-writer/director Greta Gerwig, they successfully convinced Ryan to join the Barbie world.
The Special Bonding Nights
The cast of Barbie had some unforgettable bonding experiences both on and off-screen. To foster camaraderie among the actresses, the cast held a sleepover at the luxurious Claridge’s hotel in London. Margot Robbie revealed the fun-filled evening, which included sharing beds, ordering room service, and playing games. America Ferrera, in particular, brought some humor to the event, unintentionally causing a laugh with her choice of pajamas. Meanwhile, the Kens found their own unique way to bond, hitting the gym together as per director Greta Gerwig’s suggestion.
John Cena’s Mermaid Ken
For wrestling superstar John Cena, his casting as Mermaid Ken in Barbie was a happy accident. John spontaneously pitched himself for a role in an encounter with Margot Robbie. His enthusiasm for the movie and willingness to take on any role impressed the team, leading to his involvement as the charming Mermaid Ken. The Barbie movie promises to be an exciting venture with diverse characters and a cast that’s eager to bring the iconic dolls to life on the big screen.
As the Barbie movie’s releases, fans eagerly anticipate to watch this star-studded and captivating tale. While some beloved actors narrowly missed becoming Kens, the confirmed cast has showcased incredible enthusiasm and dedication to their respective roles. With the creative team’s attention to detail and the camaraderie among the actors, Barbie is poised to be a memorable cinematic experience for audiences of all ages.