Matt Bomer, the charismatic actor known for roles in Magic Mike and Fellow Travelers, almost joined the pink-tinted world of Barbie. The 2023 blockbuster, directed by Greta Gerwig, became a cultural juggernaut, raking in over $1 billion and sparking endless buzz. Bomer was in the running to play one of the many Kens alongside Ryan Gosling, Simu Liu, and Ncuti Gatwa. So, why didn’t he end up in Barbie Land? Let’s dive into the story behind his choice and what it says about balancing career and personal life.
The Audition That Stole Hearts
Bomer didn’t just dip his toes into the Barbie casting process – he went all in. He crafted a self-taped audition showcasing multiple Kens, from Malibu Ken to Business Suit Ken, complete with distinct outfits for each. Picture him channeling that signature Bomer charm, delivering lines with the playful sincerity Gerwig’s film nailed. He even recorded the other characters’ dialogue to respond to, creating a mini Barbie scene solo. It was a labor of love, and he connected with Gerwig herself about the role, hinting at a real shot at joining the cast.
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Why He Walked Away
So, what held him back? It wasn’t a lack of enthusiasm. Bomer faced a tough call: the Barbie shoot, mostly in London, meant months away from his husband, Simon Halls, and their three sons – Kit, and twins Henry and Walker. At the same time, other projects he’d been nurturing, like the critically acclaimed Fellow Travelers and Bradley Cooper’s Maestro, started taking shape. Choosing family and these passion projects over Barbie wasn’t easy, but Bomer stood firm. He later shared that zipping between Barbie’s set and Maestro’s intense, collaborative vibe would’ve diluted the experience. Plus, a year away from his kids? Too much.
No Regrets, Just Respect
Does Bomer kick himself for missing the biggest movie of 2023? Not a bit. He’s been vocal about loving Gerwig’s vision, calling Barbie a “perfect” film with a spot-on cast. Instead of dwelling on what-ifs, he’s proud of Fellow Travelers, where he plays a complex character navigating love and secrecy, and Maestro, where his role as David Oppenheim left a lasting mark on his craft. These projects, plus time with his family, made his choice feel right. It’s a reminder that even Hollywood stars weigh heart over hype.
What’s Next for Bomer
Bomer’s career is far from slowing down. His Hulu sitcom Mid-Century Modern has him flexing comedic chops as part of a tight-knit friend group, earning laughs and buzz. Fans are also whispering about a possible White Collar revival, with Bomer teasing “legitimate talks” about bringing back Neal Caffrey’s slick con-artist charm. Whether it’s drama, comedy, or something new, Bomer’s knack for picking meaningful roles keeps him in the spotlight.
Lessons From Bomer’s Choice
Bomer’s Barbie story isn’t just gossip – it’s a lesson in priorities. In a world obsessed with chasing the next big thing, he bet on family and projects that fueled his soul. It paid off with work that’s resonated deeply, from Fellow Travelers’ raw emotion to Maestro’s artistry. For anyone juggling ambition and personal life, Bomer’s move is a nod to trusting your gut.
Why This Matters Now
The Barbie buzz hasn’t faded – its vibrant take on identity and society still sparks conversations. Bomer’s connection to it, even as a near-miss, ties into bigger themes of choice and balance that hit home for many. His story adds a human layer to the film’s legacy, showing that sometimes the roles you don’t take shape your path just as much.
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