Margot Robbie's decision to join Barbie was driven by one key factor. The movie revolves around Barbie (played by Margot Robbie) and Ken (played by Ryan Gosling) as they venture out of Barbieland into the real world, facing numerous hurdles along the way. Meanwhile, back in Barbieland, a variety of Barbies and Kens continue to live their blissful lives as toy characters.
If it hadn't been for the impressive lineup of actors portraying the Barbies and Kens, Robbie might not have agreed to be a part of the upcoming Barbie film. In an interview with Time, Robbie emphasized the significance of having a diverse cast. Read her statement below, as reported by Entertainment Weekly.
I wouldn't have wanted to make a Barbie film that lacks diversity. It's not right to present one version of Barbie as the ideal that all women should strive to be like in terms of appearance and behavior. The concept of Barbie as an inspiration is at the heart of the entire franchise. Considering this, it is logical to include a diverse range of Barbie and Ken characters, ensuring that everyone has a role model to admire. Robbie strongly advocated for this inclusive approach.
The Many Faces Of Barbie
Barbie boasts an extensive lineup of Barbies and Kens, each played by a stellar cast of actors eager to grace the screens of Barbieland and beyond. Kate McKinnon, Hari Nef, Dua Lipa, Issa Rae, Alexandra Shipp, Sharon Rooney, Ana Cruz Kayne, Nicola Coughlan, Rita Arya, and Emma Mackey join the ranks of diverse Barbies, while Kingsley Ben-Adir, John Cena, Simu Liu, and even Scott Evans, the brother of Chris Evans, portray the various Kens. This inclusive and highly talented ensemble ensures that every viewer can connect with a resident of Barbieland. Just like the Barbie franchise itself, the Barbie movie fearlessly showcases Barbies from all walks of life, proving that a Barbie movie should embrace diversity and authenticity, and not limit roles to the conventional beauty standards of Hollywood.
The diverse range of appearances for Barbie and Ken adds depth to the world of Barbieland. If everyone resembled Robbie and Gosling, it would be incredibly perplexing. Distinguishing between characters would become an insurmountable task. Robbie's desire to be part of a Barbie universe that embraces diversity is justified, and it is precisely what makes the movie poised for success this summer.