Get full access to The Hollywood Reporter by subscribing. The choreographer behind the “I’m Just Ken” number at the Oscars, Mandy Moore, worked closely with Ryan Gosling, Greta Gerwig, and more to create a show-stopping musical performance. The energetic backstage atmosphere before the performance had Moore giving the Kens a pep talk before they took the stage.
The performance featured Ryan Gosling leading a group of 62 Kens, including his fellow Barbie movie co-stars, in a dance number inspired by “Gentlemen Prefer Blondes.” The stage was filled with Barbie cardboard cut-outs, and the performance ended with a Rockettes-style kickline. Gosling was joined on stage by songwriters Mark Ronson and Andrew Wyatt, as well as guitarists Wolfgang Van Halen and Slash.
The goal was to create a rock concert atmosphere with a stage filled with “hundreds of Kens,” although they settled on 62 due to space constraints. The dancers had only a week of rehearsal before the performance, with many creative ideas coming from Gosling and director Greta Gerwig.
Moore shared insights on how the performance came together, from the fast and furious rehearsal process to translating the number from screen to the live awards show. The performance received a standing ovation from the audience and brought a fun and lighthearted atmosphere to the Oscars.
Ryan’s decision to include Margot Robbie, Greta Gerwig, America Ferrera, and Emma Stone in the performance was a collaborative effort between him and Moore. The decision to have Ryan interact with the cameraman at the end was also a creative choice that added an interactive element to the performance.
Overall, the performance was a collaborative effort involving various creative teams coming together to celebrate the film in a unique way for the television broadcast. The success of the performance was attributed to the combined efforts of everyone involved, including the original choreographer of the film.
