Rob Brydon Opens Up About Criticism from Barbie Fans over Movie Casting
British actor Rob Brydon, known for his roles in shows like “Gavin & Stacey” and as the voice of Coop in “The Trip” film series, has recently revealed that he finds it hurtful when Barbie fans question why he was cast in the record-breaking movie.
The movie, which has just passed $1 billion at the box office, making it the highest-grossing film ever made by a woman as a sole director, features Brydon as Sugar Daddy Ken. However, some fans have expressed surprise and skepticism over his casting in such a big Hollywood movie.
Brydon addressed the criticisms in an interview with The Times, saying, “It does slightly sting that some people are saying, ‘What’s he doing in such a big Hollywood movie?’ I am resigned to the fact that it’s the price I pay for not taking the big acting roles in America and doing quiz shows and voiceovers here [in the UK] instead.”
The Welsh actor also shared that he landed the role in the blockbuster due to having a famous fan. It turns out that Margot Robbie, who lived in London at the beginning of her film career, was a big follower of the British comedy show “Gavin & Stacey” in which Brydon appeared as Uncle Bryn.
“You never know who’s watching, do you? Margot loved ‘Gavin & Stacey’ and a few years ago a friend of hers asked me to record a video message for her as Bryn. To be honest, I’d forgotten all about it, and then I get the call for ‘Barbie’ and the response to it has been extraordinary,” Brydon said.
He also shared a lesson for young actors, saying, “I am not here to blow my own trumpet, but there is a lesson for young actors — do your best in every role. [Director] Greta Gerwig told me she was a fan of ‘Human Remains’ [a BBC comedy, in which Brydon played seven different men going through various divorces, released back in 2000] which amazed me.”
In addition to Brydon, other British names who have joined the cast of “Barbie” include the new Doctor Who actor Ncuti Gatwa, Bridgerton’s Nicola Coughlan, Sex Education star Emma Mackey, and musician Dua Lipa, who also contributes to the movie’s soundtrack.
Brydon revealed that he had turned down American screen offers in order to stay in the UK with his family, explaining, “I am not prepared to make the sacrifices to make films or TV in Hollywood or Atlanta or Vancouver, wherever the tax breaks for filming are these days, because believe me there are sacrifices. There has to be something inside you that needs that level of success and fame. I don’t have it.”
Despite the criticisms, Brydon’s performance in “Barbie” has been well-received, showcasing his versatility as an actor and further solidifying his presence in the entertainment industry.