BUZZ BEAT MEDIA

Ryan Gosling fully embraced his role resembling Ken at the 2024 Oscars, delivering an energetic and absurd live rendition of “I’m Just Ken” from the soundtrack of “Barbie.” This song, along with Billie Eilish’s “What Was I Made For?” garnered a nomination for Best Original Song from the film “Barbie.”

“I’m Just Ken” stole the spotlight during Sunday’s Oscar telecast, and its seamless execution likely owes much to choreographer Mandy Moore. Moore, known for crafting dance sequences for a Taylor Swift world tour and a film musical, played a crucial role in ensuring the performance came together flawlessly.

Anticipation was significant prior to the ceremony. Reports suggested that the backup Kens might appear shirtless, and during a red carpet interview, Mark Ronson, who was nominated for an Oscar for the song alongside Andrew Wyatt, pledged an “absolutely bananas spectacle.”

Prior to Gosling’s performance, Simu Liu, his co-star in “Barbie,” urged the Oscars audience to illuminate their phone lights and join in singing along with Gosling’s rendition.

Drenched in purple illumination and donning a shimmering pink suit paired with pink gloves, Gosling commenced his performance of “I’m Just Ken” from his seat in the audience, positioned behind Margot Robbie, who couldn’t contain her amusement. Subsequently, he proceeded to the stage, accompanied by Mark Ronson on guitar and a few backup dancers. Slash also made an appearance on stage, lending his guitar skills to the song. 

Accompanying Gosling on stage were his co-stars portraying Ken: Simu Liu, Scott Evans, Ncuti Gatwa, and Kingsley Ben-Adir. During the performance, Gosling returned to the audience and extended the microphone to his colleagues from “Barbie” – Greta Gerwig, Robbie, and America Ferrera – who joined him in singing along. He also invited his “La La Land” co-star Emma Stone to participate in the song.

In the weeks preceding the Oscars, there was speculation surrounding Gosling’s potential live performance of “I’m Just Ken.” Back in 2017, he chose not to sing “City of Stars” from “La La Land” at the Oscars, leaving the performance to his co-star John Legend. Gosling kept his involvement in the Oscars performance under wraps until just a few weeks before the ceremony.

Gosling was present at the 96th Oscars as a nominee in the Best Supporting Actor category for his role in “Barbie.” Greta Gerwig’s highly successful comedy received a total of eight Academy Award nominations, including one for Best Picture.

In the Dolby Theatre, there was an enthusiastic response, with Steven Spielberg among those who rose to their feet to applaud Gosling.

Despite captivating the audience, Gosling did not secure the Oscar for Best Original Song. Shortly after his performance, the award went to singer Billie Eilish and her brother Finneas for their song “What Was I Made For?” from “Barbie.”

“Barbie” is a 2023 fantasy comedy directed by Greta Gerwig, who co-wrote the screenplay with Noah Baumbach. The film, based on the popular fashion dolls by Mattel, marks the first live-action adaptation of Barbie following several animated films and specials. Margot Robbie stars as Barbie, while Ryan Gosling portrays Ken, as they embark on a journey of self-discovery through both Barbieland and the real world after experiencing an existential crisis. Additionally, the film serves as a commentary on patriarchy and the impact of feminism. 

*Cover Photo/Thumbnail Photo: People