Ryan Gosling's Memorable 'I'm Just Ken' Act at the Oscars Steals the Show

Ryan Gosling Delivers Hilarious Performance of Barbi Im Just Ken

PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images

Ryan Gosling stole the show at the 2024 Oscars when he performed the Best Original Song nominated "I’m Just Ken".

The 43-year-old actor started his performance seated in the audience, causing his co-star Margot Robbie to burst into laughter. Dressed in a pink bedazzled suit, matching gloves, black shades, and a black cowboy hat, Gosling then joined 65 backup dancers on stage, including Scott Evans, Simu Liu, Kingsley Ben-Adir, Ncuti Gatwa, and other actors from the movie.

During the performance, Slash from Guns N’ Roses surprised everyone by joining Gosling on stage to rock out together. Gosling then returned to the audience and passed the microphone to his costars Robbie, America Ferrera, director Greta Gerwig, and La La Land costar Emma Stone, who sang a line from the popular song.

Eagle-eyed fans quickly noticed the nods to Marilyn Monroe’s “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” from Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and Madonna’s famous “Material Girl” music video in the men in tuxedos, pink attire, and staircase setup.

At the end of the show, the Kens, dressed in suits and black cowboy hats, enthusiastically cheered "Ken!" according to a witness who spoke to us.

Gosling had been hinting for months about whether he would sing the Barbie song at the Oscars.

Ryan Gosling Delivers Hilarious Performance of Barbi Im Just Ken

PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images

"I wasn't even thinking about it before, but now it's all I can think about," he said in an interview with W magazine in January. "Do they pay you to sing at the Oscars? Do you have to drive yourself there? How much money do you make? At least they pick you up, right?"

Variety finally confirmed in February that 43-year-old Gosling would be singing the hit song live at the 96th annual Academy Awards after months of speculation.

"I’m Just Ken," a song cowritten by Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, was nominated for Best Original Song at the award show. It was up against songs like Billie Eilish’s “What Was I Made For?” from Barbie, but Eilish ended up winning the trophy.

In addition to his song nomination, Gosling is also up for a Best Supporting Actor nod for his portrayal of Ken in Barbie. Despite being grateful for the recognition, the La La Land actor felt disappointed by the Oscar snubs of Barbie director Gerwig and actress Robbie.

In a statement from January, Gosling expressed his disappointment that Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie were not nominated for their roles in the Barbie movie. He emphasized that these two individuals were crucial in creating a film that made history and garnered global acclaim. Despite the lack of recognition in their respective categories, Gosling praised their ability to entertain, evoke emotions, challenge societal norms, and leave a lasting impact.

On a positive note, Gosling also mentioned his gratitude for being acknowledged by the Academy alongside other talented artists in a year filled with exceptional films.

"I never imagined I would say this, but I am also very honored and proud that it's for playing a plastic doll named Ken," he said. Gosling then congratulated his Barbie costar and Best Supporting Actress nominee Ferrera, along with the other talented artists who helped make the film groundbreaking.

Gosling had shared before that playing Ken was the most challenging role he has ever taken on.

In a February interview with Variety, Gosling compared his role to a high-wire act without a safety net. He expressed his determination to succeed in the Barbie movie, pushing himself beyond his limits to ensure he didn't mess up.

Editor's P/S:

Ryan Gosling's captivating performance of "I'm Just Ken" at the 2024 Oscars was a sight to behold. His energetic dance moves, sparkling costume, and charismatic stage presence stole the show. The nods to iconic performances by Marilyn Monroe and Madonna added a touch of nostalgia and glamour, making the performance a memorable spectacle.

Gosling's nomination for Best Supporting Actor for his portrayal of Ken in "Barbie" was well-deserved. Despite the film's snub in other categories, his performance stood out as a testament to his versatility and commitment to his craft. His characterization of the iconic plastic doll was both humorous and heartwarming, challenging traditional gender norms and proving that even the most superficial of characters can have depth and complexity. serves as a reminder of the importance of artistic collaboration and the power of storytelling to challenge societal norms.