Ryan Gosling has a chance to show 'solidarity' after Oscars' brutal Barbie snub

10 March 2024 , 20:00

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Margot Robbie was snubbed from the Oscar nominations

Ryan Gosling is in with a chance of taking home an Oscar and it seems he could make a big statement after his female colleagues were snubbed.

While Ryan was nominated for Best Actor in a Supporting Role, the film's star Margot Robbie and director Greta Gerwig were left off the nominations list. Fans were furious with the brutal snub and many even called on Ryan to reject his nomination.

However, PR expert Mayah Riaz believes Ryan could "redirect the narrative" if he wins and mentions the sexism row in his speech. She told The Mirror: "The Barbie Oscars snub has been hugely disappointing.

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Ryan Gosling has the power to draw attention to the snub (Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images f)

Margot Robbie missed out on an Oscars nomination (PA Wire/PA Images)

"Therefore, if Ryan Gosling wins and chooses to mention the snub in his speech, it could generate significant media attention. Ryan is a highly influential figure in the industry, so his support will not only generate sympathy but also redirect the narrative. This would of course largely depend on just how he addresses the issue. If he does it tactfully, it could demonstrate solidarity with the brand and highlight the importance of representation."

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Mayah added: "From a feminist perspective, addressing the snub is significant. The Oscars, as a platform that celebrates and recognises excellence in the film industry, should also reflect the importance of diversity and inclusion.

"By acknowledging the snub, it sends a message that representation matters and highlights the need for equal recognition across all categories. This could potentially ignite a larger conversation about the importance of diverse representation and gender equality in the media and entertainment industries."

They both starred in Barbie (AP)

Feminist Lauren Windle also believes Oscars host Jimmy Kimmel could address the snub in his commentary. She told us: "If the Oscars don't boot out Will Smith for violence on stage, they will hardly address the furore around Margot Robbie's snub. But just because the Academy stays silent, doesn’t mean everyone else will.

"Following in the footsteps of Ricky Gervais' outrageous Golden Globes gags, Jimmy Kimmel will definitely be mentioning Margot, Barbie and the feminist outcry at Ryan Gosling's nomination." She added: "Plus, Ryan will certainly credit his co-star if he wins, partly because he couldn’t have done it without her, and partly for fear of annoying his huge female fan base."

Mayah warned Jimmy could make the issue worse if his joke doesn't come off well. She explained: "Addressing the snub with a joke could be seen as insensitive and dismissive, in which case it could potentially cause further alienation. It will be essential for the host to strike a balance between entertainment and sensitivity, ensuring that any reference made is respectful and raises awareness rather than belittling the issue."

Barbie was arguably the top movie of 2023 (FILM STILL / HANDOUT)

Ryan McCormick tried to look at the snub in a positive way. The PR expert told us: "As upset as Robbie might feel, she should take solace in knowing that other well-respected stars such as Richard Gere, Kurt Russell, Meg Ryan, Steve Martin, Jim Carrey, Demi Moore, Kevin Bacon, and others have never been nominated for an Academy Award.

"Unfortunately, it's the nature of the beast and it won't be the last time that a brilliant performance is overlooked." He added: "Adrien Brody, Cuba Gooding, Jr., Kim Basinger, and Tatum O'Neal are just some of individuals who actually saw their careers slide after their Oscar win.

"Robbie's snub could be a blessing in disguise and it may very well lay the foundation for a future win. Barbie earned over $1.4billion at the box office and re-affirmed that Margot is a powerful box office draw. I see nothing but success in her future."

Mayah Riaz is a PR expert who spoke to The Mirror on behalf of Mayah Media. Lauren Windle is a journalist who wrote Notes On Feminism. Ryan McCormick is a PR expert from Goldman McCormick PR.

Scarlett O'Toole