Greta Gerwig Reveals Untold “Barbie” Casting Secrets

In her recent interview with Hollywood First Look, Greta Gerwig, renowned for directing modern classics such as “Lady Bird” and “Little Women,” shared fascinating insights from the sets of her latest hit, “Barbie.” Gerwig’s rapport with actor Timothée Chalamet, built over multiple cinematic collaborations, took the spotlight.

As it turns out, Chalamet unexpectedly appeared on the “Barbie” set in London. Yet, to the dismay of fans, tight schedules played spoilsport, keeping him from clinching a dream role in the movie. With a tone of regret, Gerwig noted, “I tried to get them both in it. They both couldn’t do it.”

Dream Castings That Almost Happened

Greta’s revelations didn’t end with Chalamet. Delving deeper, she shared ambitious cameo plans she’d envisioned for Chalamet and another favourite, Saoirse Ronan, in “Barbie.” Gerwig’s fond memories of the duo’s unmatched synergy in past works had inspired these cameos. Sadly, commitments, like Ronan’s role in “The Outrun,” kept them apart from the “Barbie” project. Echoing Chalamet’s feelings of missing out, she said, “It felt like doing something without my children. I’m not their mom, but I sort of feel like their mom.”

But Chalamet and Ronan weren’t the only potential stars in the “Barbie” universe. Industry insiders revealed that a constellation of talent, including “SNL’s” Bowen Yang, Dan Levy of “Schitt’s Creek,” and Tony Award-winner Ben Platt, was once considered to play different versions of the iconic Ken. Alas, time constraints thwarted these exciting prospects. Further intrigue was added with Jonathan Groff’s potential casting as Allan, a part that eventually went to Michael Cera.

The behind-the-scenes drama surrounding “Barbie” only amplifies the film’s allure, now enchanting viewers across theatres under the Warner Bros. banner.