In the summer of 2023, the world was enchanted by the dazzling and whimsical world of Barbie (2023), a film that not only brought the iconic doll to life but also catapulted Margot Robbie into a new realm of stardom.
Directed by Greta Gerwig, the movie explored Barbie Land, a utopia where perfection reigned supreme, except for the occasional existential crisis or the bumbling mishaps of Ken.
Margot Robbie, known for her diverse and impressive filmography, took on the role of Barbie with grace and charm. Prior to Barbie, Robbie had already earned critical acclaim and several award nominations for her roles in films like The Wolf of Wall Street (2013), Bombshell (2019), and I, Tonya (2017). However, it was her portrayal of the iconic doll that became the defining moment of her career. The film’s ensemble cast, including Ryan Gosling as Ken, America Ferrera, Kate McKinnon, Michael Cera, and a slew of other talented actors, added depth and humor to the narrative. Under the direction of Greta Gerwig and the creative collaboration with Noah Baumbach, the screenplay successfully blended Gerwig’s distinctive storytelling style with the beloved Barbie brand by Mattel.
Barbie (2023) wasn’t just a box office success; it was a global phenomenon. With a staggering box office of $1.442 billion, the film became one of the highest-grossing movies of the year. Audiences were captivated by the whimsy of Barbie Land, the chemistry between Robbie and Gosling, and the witty humor sprinkled throughout the film. For Margot Robbie, Barbie became more than a character; she became an icon. The actress seamlessly embodied the spirit of the beloved doll, showcasing her range as an actress and solidifying her status as a Hollywood A-lister. Robbie’s performance in Barbie garnered her praise from critics and fans alike, and the character became synonymous with her name.
As fans reveled in the magic of Barbie, speculation about a sequel naturally arose. Would Barbie and Ken embark on another adventure? What new challenges would Barbie face in her perfect world? However, the excitement was met with a hint of disappointment. Margot Robbie, in various interviews and statements, expressed reservations about revisiting the character in a sequel. Robbie’s sentiments hinted at a bittersweet reality for fans who longed for more Barbie adventures.
The actress, in acknowledging the impact of Barbie on her career, also revealed the toll such an iconic role had on her creatively. The immense success and popularity of the film created a tough act to follow, and Robbie seemed wary of diluting the magic of the first installment with a potentially lackluster sequel.
Now, we have confirmation from Robbie that she likely won’t be returning to the franchise. In comments with AP Entertainment, Margot Robbie shared that she thought they “put everything into this one.”
“Barbie 2”? Margot Robbie on whether there will be a sequel to her summer hit. She produced and starred in Greta Gerwig’s film, which made over $1.4 billion at the box office. pic.twitter.com/x6dsIOq3iJ
— AP Entertainment (@APEntertainment) November 17, 2023
While the prospect of a Barbie sequel may be disheartening for fans, it’s a testament to Margot Robbie’s commitment to her craft. The actress, known for her dedication to diverse and challenging roles, appears to be steering her career toward fresh and uncharted territory.
What do you think of this franchise likely coming to an end?
This post is originally appeared on Inside the Magic.