Born: November 12, 1980
Ryan Gosling is a Canadian actor, musician, and director known for his diverse roles in both independent films and major Hollywood productions. With a career spanning over two decades, Gosling has become one of the most respected and versatile actors in the industry, admired for his dedication to his craft and his ability to portray complex characters.
Family and Early Life:
Ryan Thomas Gosling was born on November 12, 1980, in London, Ontario, Canada. He is the son of Donna, a secretary, and Thomas Ray Gosling, a traveling salesman. He has an older sister named Mandi. Gosling’s family was deeply religious, and he was raised in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His parents divorced when he was 13, which had a significant impact on his early life. Gosling attended Gladstone Public School, Cornwall Collegiate and Vocational School, and Lester B. Pearson High School. From a young age, he showed an interest in performing, inspired by the 1945 film “Dick Tracy” and his childhood idol, actor Marlon Brando.
Early Career:
Gosling began his career as a child star on the Disney Channel’s “The Mickey Mouse Club” from 1993 to 1995, alongside future stars like Justin Timberlake, Britney Spears, and Christina Aguilera. After the show ended, he continued to work in television, appearing in series such as “Are You Afraid of the Dark?” and “Goosebumps.”
Transition to Film:
Gosling’s transition to film began with roles in independent movies like “The Believer” (2001), where he played a Jewish neo-Nazi, earning critical acclaim for his intense performance. He gained further recognition with a leading role in the romantic drama “The Notebook” (2004), opposite Rachel McAdams. The film’s success established him as a leading man and heartthrob, but he soon sought out more challenging and diverse roles to avoid being typecast.
Career Highlights:
Gosling’s filmography is marked by a wide range of genres and characters. In 2006, he starred in “Half Nelson,” playing a drug-addicted teacher, a role that earned him his first Academy Award nomination for Best Actor. He followed this with critically acclaimed performances in “Lars and the Real Girl” (2007), “Blue Valentine” (2010), and “Drive” (2011). His collaboration with director Nicolas Winding Refn on “Drive” and later “Only God Forgives” showcased his ability to deliver intense, brooding performances.
Continued Success and Accolades:
In 2016, Gosling starred in the musical “La La Land,” directed by Damien Chazelle. His portrayal of a jazz musician struggling to make it in Los Angeles earned him his second Academy Award nomination for Best Actor and won him a Golden Globe. The film’s success further cemented his status as a versatile and bankable star. Other notable films include “Crazy, Stupid, Love” (2011), “The Big Short” (2015), “Blade Runner 2049” (2017), and “First Man” (2018), where he portrayed astronaut Neil Armstrong.
Personal Life:
Gosling is in a long-term relationship with actress Eva Mendes, whom he met while filming “The Place Beyond the Pines” (2012). The couple has two daughters, Esmeralda Amada and Amada Lee. Known for his private nature, Gosling keeps his personal life largely out of the public eye, focusing on his family and career.
Philanthropy:
Ryan Gosling is involved in various charitable activities and social causes. He has worked with organizations like PETA, Invisible Children, and the Enough Project, advocating for animal rights, children’s welfare, and ending human rights abuses in Central Africa. His humanitarian efforts reflect his commitment to making a positive impact beyond his film career.
Ryan Gosling on Social Media:
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