While Ryan Gosling may be the ideal Ken for many in the new “Barbie” film, there were other big names in the mix. In a recent chat with Vanity Fair, casting directors Allison Jones and Lucy Bevan dished on the actors who nearly graced Barbie’s cinematic dream house.
Given that the film represents a diverse array of Barbies and Kens, akin to the doll lineup, many actors were keen to join. However, not all could make the cut. For instance, Covid-related travel limitations demanded a three-month stay in London, ruling out actors like Bowen Yang, Dan Levy, and Ben Platt for Ken. Jones shared, “They were genuinely upset about missing out.”
Simu Liu, on the other hand, was super eager to play Ken – and he did! Meanwhile, Jonathan Groff was offered the role of Ken’s buddy Allan but had to decline, paving the way for Michael Cera.
With a number of Barbies and Kens to cast, the film attracted a slew of audition tapes. Director Greta Gerwig, according to Bevan, took a hands-on approach. Before actors even got a glimpse of the script, Gerwig made it a point to have conversations with them. Bevan explained, “Greta wanted to understand them personally. Their chats gave her a feel for what they’d bring to the roles.”
In the end, Margot Robbie bagged the primary Barbie role. Still, the film showcased various Barbies, brilliantly portrayed by actresses like Kate McKinnon, Issa Rae, and pop star Dua Lipa.
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