At the recent Critics Choice Awards held at Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California, Ryan Gosling experienced genuine surprise and disbelief when his song from Barbie, “I’m Just Ken,” won the coveted Best Song award. Often, winners at awards shows claim to be unprepared, but Gosling’s reaction appeared authentic.
Despite being considered an underdog against strong contenders like Billie Eilish’s “What Was I Made For” and Dua Lipa’s “Dance the Night” from Barbie, “I’m Just Ken” emerged victorious. When the announcement was made, the cameras captured Gosling in the audience, looking genuinely stunned and almost suspicious, as if he believed it was an elaborate prank.
The announcer mentioned that the award would be accepted by writers Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, along with Gosling himself. However, Gosling remained in his seat, cheering on Ronson and Wyatt, clearly in disbelief. During Ronson’s acceptance speech, he acknowledged Gosling’s significant contribution to bringing the song to life.
“Ryan Gosling, this is as much your award as ours,” Ronson expressed, with Gosling beaming from the audience. “You made the world, or the audience, fall in love with this song with your matchless performance, so thank you.”
Backstage, Ronson and Wyatt shared their excitement for the possibility of a Barbie musical on Broadway, with Ronson jokingly stating he’s already written 12 songs and is waiting for the call. When asked about seeing Gosling perform “I’m Just Ken” at the Oscars, Ronson replied earnestly, “The most badly.”
Fans on social media showered love on Gosling for his humble and genuine reaction to the unexpected win, praising his adorable stunned look. The 29th Annual Critics Choice Awards, which aired on The CW, marked a memorable moment for Gosling and his song “I’m Just Ken.”