Unpacking The Barbie Movie Cast: Who's Who In Barbie Land And Beyond

Katharina Gerlach 28 Jul 2025

The 2023 film “Barbie” really brought a colorful, vibrant world to life, and a huge part of that magic came from its incredible group of performers. This fantasy comedy, directed by Greta Gerwig from a screenplay she wrote with Noah Baumbach, is truly something special. It is a story that resonates with so many, and a big reason for that is the talented people who stepped into these iconic roles.

You know, the “Barbie” movie, which is now streaming on Max, boasts a stellar cast featuring established actors and rising stars. It's not just about the main characters, though they are certainly fantastic. This movie, you see, has a wide array of talent, from lead roles to supporting players and even some really fun cameo appearances that might surprise you.

So, if you are curious about the full "Barbie" cast and character guide, or perhaps wondering what else these performers have worked on, you are in the right spot. We are going to look at everyone who helped bring Barbie Land to the big screen, giving you a bit of information about their past projects and what made their performances in this film so memorable. It's a pretty impressive collection of people, actually.

The Visionaries Behind the World
- Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach: Crafting the Story
Leading the Dream: The Main Barbie and Ken
- Margot Robbie as Stereotypical Barbie
- Ryan Gosling as Stereotypical Ken
A Multitude of Barbies
- Different Barbies, Different Lives
Many Kens, Many Personalities
- The Kens of Barbie Land
The Humans Who Bridge Worlds
- Characters from the Real World
Surprising Cameos and Supporting Players
- Familiar Faces in Unexpected Places
The Impact of the Ensemble
- Why This Cast Just Works
Frequently Asked Questions About the Cast
Bringing Barbie Land to Life

The Visionaries Behind the World

Before we look at the people in front of the camera, it's important to give a nod to the brilliant minds who put this whole thing together. The unique tone and story of the "Barbie" film are very much a product of its creative leaders.

Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach: Crafting the Story

Greta Gerwig, who directed the film, also helped write the screenplay with Noah Baumbach. Their combined talents really shaped the movie's distinct voice, blending fantasy with sharp comedy and some rather touching moments. Gerwig is well-known for her previous works, like "Lady Bird" and "Little Women," which often explore themes of self-discovery and what it means to grow up. Baumbach, too, has a knack for stories that feel very real and sometimes a bit quirky, with films like "Marriage Story" and "The Squid and the Whale" to his name. Together, they made a world that feels both familiar and entirely new, and that's quite a feat.

Leading the Dream: The Main Barbie and Ken

The core of the "Barbie" movie, of course, centers on its two main characters, Barbie and Ken. These roles needed performers who could bring both the iconic, almost plastic perfection of the dolls and a surprising amount of depth and humor. They really nailed it, you know.

Margot Robbie as Stereotypical Barbie

Margot Robbie takes on the role of Stereotypical Barbie, the one who lives a seemingly perfect life in Barbie Land. Robbie brings a wonderful mix of charm, vulnerability, and comedic timing to the part. She had to portray a character who starts out in a world where everything is just right, and then she has to deal with the messy, sometimes confusing, actual world. You might remember Robbie from her impactful performances in films like "I, Tonya," where she played the ice skater Tonya Harding, or as Harley Quinn in "Suicide Squad" and "Birds of Prey." She also appeared in "The Wolf of Wall Street" and "Once Upon a Time in Hollywood." Her work here, though, is quite different, and she really makes Barbie feel like a person, which is pretty cool.

Ryan Gosling as Stereotypical Ken

Ryan Gosling plays Stereotypical Ken, Barbie's devoted companion who, in a way, is trying to find his own place in the sun. Gosling's portrayal of Ken is absolutely hilarious and, surprisingly, quite moving. He manages to capture Ken's longing for identity and his sometimes over-the-top reactions with a lot of heart. Gosling has a long list of memorable roles, including his work in "La La Land," where he sang and danced, and in "Drive," where he played a quiet, intense character. He also starred in "The Notebook," a romantic drama, and "Blade Runner 2049," a science fiction piece. His performance as Ken really shows off a different side of his acting abilities, and it's rather brilliant, honestly.

A Multitude of Barbies

One of the truly delightful aspects of the "Barbie" movie is how it shows that there isn't just one Barbie. Barbie Land is full of many different Barbies, each with their own unique careers and personalities. This concept is brought to life by a fantastic group of actresses, and it’s a very clever idea.

Different Barbies, Different Lives

You have Issa Rae as President Barbie, a leader who runs Barbie Land with a lot of grace. Rae is widely known for her hit show "Insecure," which she created and starred in, and also for her work in films like "The Lovebirds." She brings a wonderful sense of authority and warmth to her Barbie.

Then there's Kate McKinnon, who plays Weird Barbie. She is the Barbie who has been played with a bit too much, with messy hair and marker on her face. McKinnon is a comedy legend, famous for her many years on "Saturday Night Live," where she created some truly unforgettable characters. She also appeared in "Ghostbusters" (2016) and "Bombshell." Her performance as Weird Barbie is just spot on, you know, very quirky and wise.

Dua Lipa makes an appearance as Mermaid Barbie. She is a global pop music superstar, and this marks one of her first major acting roles. She brings a shimmering presence to the screen, which is pretty cool. Simu Liu, too, is there as one of the Kens, but we'll get to him in a moment.

Alexandra Shipp plays Writer Barbie, a creative soul in Barbie Land. Shipp has been in films like "X-Men: Apocalypse" as Storm and "Love, Simon." Her presence adds to the diverse array of Barbies.

Emma Mackey portrays Physicist Barbie, a very clever and brainy Barbie. Mackey is known for her role in the popular Netflix series "Sex Education" and also appeared in "Death on the Nile." She really embodies the intelligence of her character.

Sharon Rooney is Lawyer Barbie, a very sharp and articulate Barbie. Rooney has appeared in television shows like "My Mad Fat Diary" and "The Capture." She brings a certain gravitas to her Barbie role.

Hari Nef plays Doctor Barbie, a Barbie who helps everyone stay well. Nef is an actress and model, known for her work in the series "Transparent." She adds another layer of representation to the Barbie world.

Ana Cruz Kayne is Judge Barbie, a Barbie who makes sure things are fair. Kayne has been seen in "Little Women" (also directed by Greta Gerwig) and "Painkiller." She brings a strong presence to her character.

Ritu Arya plays Journalist Barbie, a Barbie who keeps everyone informed. Arya is recognized for her roles in "The Umbrella Academy" and "Red Notice." She is a very dynamic performer.

Nicola Coughlan, from "Bridgerton" and "Derry Girls," appears as Diplomat Barbie, who handles relations between different groups. She brings her characteristic charm to the role.

These actresses, and many others, really help show that Barbie can be anything, which is a very powerful message, honestly.

Many Kens, Many Personalities

Just like the Barbies, the Kens in Barbie Land are not all the same. While Ryan Gosling's Ken is the main focus, there are several other Kens, each with their own quirks and relationships with the Barbies. They are all, you know, trying to figure things out in their own way.

The Kens of Barbie Land

Simu Liu is another prominent Ken, often seen as a rival to Gosling's Ken. Liu rose to fame as the star of Marvel's "Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings" and also appeared in the sitcom "Kim's Convenience." He brings a fantastic blend of confidence and insecurity to his Ken, which is pretty funny.

Kingsley Ben-Adir plays another Ken. Ben-Adir has taken on some very serious roles, like Malcolm X in "One Night in Miami..." and Barack Obama in "The Comey Rule." His presence as a Ken adds a cool, smooth vibe to the group.

Ncuti Gatwa, who is set to be the next Doctor in "Doctor Who" and is also known for "Sex Education," plays another Ken. Gatwa brings a wonderful energy and charisma to his character, which is just delightful to watch.

Scott Evans, who is Captain America actor Chris Evans' brother, also plays a Ken. Scott Evans has been in shows like "Grace and Frankie" and "One Life to Live." He adds another layer to the diverse group of Kens.

John Cena makes a rather surprising appearance as Merman Ken. Cena is a wrestling superstar and an accomplished actor, known for roles in "Fast & Furious" films, "Peacemaker," and "Bumblebee." His cameo is truly a highlight, and it's very unexpected, in a good way.

Rob Brydon, a British comedian and actor, also has a brief appearance as Sugar Daddy Ken, which is a rather amusing nod to an older Barbie doll. Brydon is known for his work in "Gavin & Stacey" and "The Trip" series.

Tom Stourton plays another Ken, adding to the ensemble. Stourton is a British actor and comedian, known for his work in "Stath Lets Flats."

These Kens, in their different ways, help to explore themes of identity and purpose, especially when they get a chance to go to the actual world and discover new things. It’s pretty interesting, really, how they all fit together.

The Humans Who Bridge Worlds

While much of the film takes place in the colorful and seemingly perfect world of Barbie Land, a significant part of the story happens when Barbie and Ken venture into the actual world. This means there are also human characters who interact with our plastic heroes.

Characters from the Real World

America Ferrera plays Gloria, a human who works at Mattel and has a deep connection to Barbie. Ferrera is beloved for her roles in "Ugly Betty" and "Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants." She brings a lot of heart and relatability to Gloria, acting as a bridge between the fantasy and the actual world. Her character, you know, really helps Barbie understand what it means to be human.

Ariana Greenblatt plays Sasha, Gloria's daughter, who is a bit more cynical about Barbie. Greenblatt is a talented young actress who has appeared in "Avengers: Infinity War" and "65." Her portrayal of Sasha offers a fresh, sometimes challenging, perspective on Barbie's legacy.

Will Ferrell takes on the role of the CEO of Mattel, a somewhat bumbling but determined figure who wants to put Barbie back in her box, so to speak. Ferrell is a comedy icon, famous for films like "Anchorman," "Elf," and "Step Brothers." He brings his signature brand of humor to the corporate world of the film, which is pretty funny, honestly.

Michael Cera plays Allan, Ken's friend, who is a rather unique character in Barbie Land. Allan is the only one of his kind, a sort of discontinued doll. Cera is known for his quirky, often awkward, comedic roles in "Superbad," "Juno," and "Arrested Development." His performance as Allan is very endearing and a bit melancholic, which is quite nice.

Connor Swindells plays Aaron Dinkins, a junior employee at Mattel. Swindells is known for his role in "Sex Education" alongside Emma Mackey and Ncuti Gatwa. He provides some additional comedic moments in the corporate setting.

Jamie Demetriou is another Mattel employee, adding to the ensemble of human characters. Demetriou is a British comedian and actor, known for "Stath Lets Flats" (with Tom Stourton) and "Fleabag."

Helen Mirren serves as the narrator for the film, providing a witty and insightful commentary on the events. Mirren is an Academy Award-winning actress, known for her roles in "The Queen," "Gosford Park," and the "Fast & Furious" series. Her voice adds a touch of class and humor to the entire story, which is rather perfect.

Surprising Cameos and Supporting Players

Beyond the main and supporting cast, the "Barbie" movie also features some delightful cameo appearances and smaller roles that add extra layers of fun and recognition for viewers. These little surprises are, you know, really a treat.

Familiar Faces in Unexpected Places

Emerald Fennell appears as Midge, a pregnant Barbie doll who was also a discontinued toy. Fennell is an acclaimed director and writer, known for "Promising Young Woman" and her acting role in "The Crown." Her brief appearance is a clever nod to Barbie history.

As mentioned earlier, John Cena's Merman Ken is a fantastic cameo. His willingness to fully embrace the absurdity of the role is truly commendable, and it's a very memorable moment in the film.

Rhea Perlman plays Ruth Handler, the creator of Barbie. Perlman is a veteran actress, famous for her role as Carla Tortelli in the sitcom "Cheers." Her appearance brings a significant, almost spiritual, presence to the story, connecting Barbie to her origins, which is pretty deep, actually.

The film also features a number of other talented actors in smaller but impactful roles, like Annie Mumolo as a human, and various others who fill out the vibrant world of Barbie Land and the actual world. Each person, in their own way, contributes to the overall feeling of the movie, and that's rather important.

The Impact of the Ensemble

The collective strength of the "Barbie" movie cast is truly remarkable. It's not just about one or two big names; it's about how all these different performers come together to create a cohesive and believable, yet fantastical, world. They really make the story shine, you know.

Why This Cast Just Works

The casting choices for "Barbie" were, in some respects, very deliberate. Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach assembled a group of actors who could handle both the broad comedy and the more thoughtful, emotional beats of the story. You have performers known for their dramatic work, like Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, showing off their comedic chops, and comedic talents like Kate McKinnon and Will Ferrell bringing unexpected depth.

The film, which is a 2023 fantasy comedy, really benefited from having a diverse group of actors who could embody the idea that Barbie, and by extension, anyone, can be anything. From the various Barbies with different careers to the numerous Kens exploring their identities, the cast helps to deliver this powerful message. It's a testament to their talent that they made these plastic characters feel so human and relatable, even in the most outlandish situations. The whole thing just works, honestly, because everyone is so committed to their part.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Cast

People often have questions about the performers in the "Barbie" movie, especially given its popularity. Here are some common things folks ask, you know, about the people who brought this film to life.

Who plays the main Barbie and Ken?

The main Stereotypical Barbie is played by Margot Robbie, and the main Stereotypical Ken is played by Ryan Gosling. They are, you know, the central figures who embark on the journey from Barbie Land to the actual world.

Are there other famous actors in the Barbie movie?

Absolutely! The film is packed with well-known faces. You will see people like Will Ferrell as the Mattel CEO, America Ferrera as Gloria, and Kate McKinnon as Weird Barbie. There are also many other recognizable actors playing different Barbies and Kens, like Issa Rae, Simu Liu

Download Barbie Pictures | Wallpapers.com

Barbie doll closeup free image download