Actor Ryan Gosling Opens Up About What Matters Most in Life

Actor Ryan Gosling Opens Up About What Matters Most in Life
(Left) Ryan Gosling attends a special screening of "The Fall Guy" at BFI IMAX Waterloo in London, England, on April 22, 2024. (Gareth Cattermole/Getty Images) (Right) Eva Mendes attends the grand opening of New York & Company Miami store and the debut of her new collection in Miami, Fla., on March 16, 2017. (Gustavo Caballero/Getty Images for New York & Company)
Jessamyn Dodd
4/24/2024
Updated:
4/24/2024
0:00

Ryan Gosling—celebrated for his roles in films such as “Drive” and “La La Land”—recently shared insights into his philosophy regarding life’s priorities, particularly his contemplation of mortality.

In an interview with Men’s Health, Mr. Gosling opened up about the importance of family in his life, highlighting that his partner, actress Eva Mendes, and their daughters hold precedence above all else.

“I don’t think I’ll regret anything professionally, but I do think when it comes to Eva [Mendes] and the girls, they come first. I don’t know, it’s probably not a good thing that I go deathbed, but it’s helpful for me,” he said.

Mr. Gosling suggests prioritizing family over career and emphasizing relationships for a fulfilling life, stating: “Anytime I’m struggling, I just think about whether it’s going to matter to me then because, yeah, this whole thing can be distorting. ... Are you going to care about this thing, whether you did it or not, whatever the thing is? It’s extreme, but it’s helpful.”

When asked about his heroes, the Golden Globe winner singled out Ms. Mendes and his uncle Bill, recalling his uncle’s support during a formative period of self-doubt. He shared a glimpse into his domestic life with Ms. Mendes, detailing his culinary skills by mentioning his signature dish, Moroccan chicken bastilla, and a penchant for the reality TV dating show “Love Is Blind.”

Mr. Gosling’s relationship with Ms. Mendes commenced in 2011 during the filming of “The Place Beyond the Pines,” evolving into a partnership over the years. The couple—now parents to two daughters, Esmeralda (9) and Amada (7)—has deliberately cultivated a private life, prioritizing the well-being of their family unit. Opting for a more secluded lifestyle, they recently relocated from Los Angeles, aiming to shield their children from the glare of celebrity culture. While rumors of marriage have circulated over the years, Mr. Gosling and Ms. Mendes have remained tight-lipped about their marital status.

An anonymous source previously told People Magazine that the couple primarily focuses on their children’s well-being. Both are described as dedicated to maintaining a healthy work-life balance with clear boundaries. Their commitment extends to their marriage and their daughter’s happiness.

Mr. Gosling is described as an engaged and fun dad who enjoys various activities with his daughters. “He takes them out by himself for various activities. As a family, they enjoy visiting the desert and the beach. They are a very active family. Eva and Ryan seem happy. They tend to be flirty and hold hands. It’s cute,” the source said.

While successful in their respective fields, both actors reportedly value their time away from the spotlight. Ms. Mendes’s recent attendance at Fashion Week suggests a re-entry into public events after becoming a mother. The 50-year-old actress and model announced a partnership with San Francisco-based jeweler Cast to design an exclusive ring. Collaborating with Cast’s co-founders Rachel Skelly and Eric Ryan, Ms. Mendes created the “Havana” style Flip Ring, featuring chrysoprase, emerald pavé, white agate, and diamond accents in 18-karat reclaimed gold.

Fresh off of his success from last summer’s blockbuster “Barbie,” Mr. Gosling is gearing up for the premier of his latest film, “Fall Guys,” co-starring Emily Blunt. The action-comedy film is set for theatrical release on May 3.

Jessamyn Dodd is an experienced TV news anchor, reporter, and digital journalist covering entertainment, politics, and crime.