Image source: Everett Collection
by Greta Gerwig Barbie doll the film is brimming with Ken-ergy, thanks in large part to its all-star cast, which includes Ryan Gosling, Simu Liu, and Kingsley Ben-Adir in various Ken roles. For a small number of actors, however, Barbie’s dream of playing a “long-term, aloof, low-commitment, casual” boyfriend on screen is far-fetched: in an interview with Vanity Fair on July 20, casting director Allison Jones revealed the names of three actors who unfortunately had to turn down the supporting role of Ken in the film.
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the cast and crew had to stay in London for three months, where much of the film was shot. Ultimately, the logistics of filming resulted in a scheduling conflict that prevented Bowen Yang, Dan Levy, and Ben Platt from playing Ken. “I’m not kidding, they’re really frustrated that they can’t do it,” Jones said.
Even the role of Allan, considered by many to be Barbie’s unsung hero, was originally intended for another actor: Jonathan Groff. “Dear Jonathan Groff said, ‘I can’t believe I’m typing this, but I can’t do Allan,'” Jones said, citing scheduling conflicts. While it would be fun to see the Broadway veteran add his own spin on the previously forgotten doll, the internet seems to agree that Michael Cera has done the character justice. “Allan is easily the best character in the Barbie movie,” one Twitter user wrote.
Nicola Coughlan, who plays Diplomat Barbie, also previously revealed that she almost missed the Barbieland experience due to her busy work schedule. With some encouragement from Gerwig, however, Coughlan managed to secure a smaller — but still memorable — role in the film. “When I was asked if I wanted to join Barbieland even for a short time, my answer was immediate and very definitive,” she wrote on Instagram.
At this point, we may need a “Barbie” sequel to make up for all the celebrities with conflicting filming schedules. In the meantime, you can catch us singing along to the “Barbie” soundtrack all summer long.
“Barbie” is currently showing in theaters.
