Whoopi Goldberg Speaks Out on ‘Barbie’ Snubs at the 2024 Oscars
The 2024 Oscars have been making headlines for the surprising exclusion of the hit film “Barbie” from some of the top categories. And now, Academy Award winner Whoopi Goldberg has weighed in on the controversy during a discussion on “The View.” Goldberg, along with her co-hosts Alyssa Farah Griffin, Joy Behar, Sara Haines, and Sunny Hostin, delved into the topic and shared their thoughts on the matter.
The conversation was sparked by “Barbie” star Ryan Gosling’s reaction to the lack of Oscar nominations for his co-star Margot Robbie and director Greta Gerwig. Gosling himself was nominated for best supporting actor for his role as Ken in the fantasy comedy. However, Robbie and Gerwig were completely shut out in the acting categories.
Goldberg, known for her candid opinions, pushed back against the notion of rejection in the industry. She emphasized that not everyone can win and that it’s important to remember that awards are subjective. “They’re not snubs,” Goldberg stated. “And it’s not the elites. It’s the entire family of the Academy Awards who vote for best picture nominations.”
“Barbie” received a total of eight nominations at the 96th Academy Awards, including best picture, best adapted screenplay, best original song, best costume design, best production design, and best supporting actor and actress. However, despite its multiple nominations, Robbie and Gerwig were overlooked in their respective categories.
Goldberg further explained, “You don’t get everything that you want to get. That’s what you have to keep in mind. Not everybody gets a prize, and it is subjective. Movies are subjective. The movies you love may not be loved by the people who are voting.”
Ryan Gosling, who plays Ken in “Barbie,” expressed his disappointment in a statement shared with various outlets, including CNN and The Hollywood Reporter. He praised Robbie and Gerwig for their contributions to the film and emphasized that their talent, grit, and genius were essential to the success of “Barbie.” Gosling stated, “To say that I’m disappointed that they are not nominated in their respective categories would be an understatement.”
The exclusion of “Barbie” from the best actress and best director categories has caused quite a stir in the industry. Many fans and critics believe that Robbie and Gerwig deserved recognition for their outstanding performances and directorial skills. However, as Goldberg pointed out, the Academy Awards are ultimately decided by a diverse group of voters with their own preferences and opinions.
While the snub may be disheartening for some, it’s important to remember that awards are just one aspect of a film’s journey. “Barbie” has already made history and garnered global celebration. It has captivated audiences with its unique storytelling and memorable characters.
In the end, the Oscars are just one night in the grand scheme of things. The impact and legacy of “Barbie” will continue to resonate with audiences for years to come, regardless of the awards it receives. As Goldberg wisely stated, “Everybody doesn’t win.” And sometimes, it’s the films we love the most that don’t receive the recognition we believe they deserve.
So, let’s celebrate the magic of “Barbie” and appreciate the incredible talent behind it. While it may not have received all the nominations it hoped for, it has undoubtedly left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide. And that, in itself, is a remarkable achievement.
