In an age where celebrity relationships often play out in the glaring spotlight of social media, Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling defy convention by keeping their romance largely under wraps. Yet, every once in a while, Mendes can’t help but shower affection in public—a recent example being her enthusiastic social media post praising Gosling’s achievements related to his film, “The Fall Guy.” This rare glimpse into their relationship not only highlights her admiration for her partner but shines a light on an important step towards recognizing the unsung heroes in the film industry: stunt performers.
The Championing of Stunt Performers
April 10 saw a significant announcement from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences that could change the landscape of the Oscars forever. For the first time, the prestigious organization revealed the introduction of an award category dedicated to Achievement in Stunt Design, to be presented at the 100th Oscars in 2028. This milestone is, in no small part, thanks to Gosling’s tireless campaign advocating for the recognition of stunt performers, which he showcased during his promotional tour for “The Fall Guy,” where he portrays a stuntman alongside the talented Emily Blunt. Mendes’ shoutout on Instagram marks a triumph not only for Gosling but for the entire stunt community, whose contributions have long been overlooked.
Mendes succinctly celebrated this monumental achievement: “Unfortunately, success is almost only measured by box office. So I’m extra proud of my man for turning his entire Fall Guy press tour into a campaign to get stunts recognized by the Oscars.” Her candid affection serves to humanize this glorified industry while resonating with fans, drawing attention to the collaborative efforts behind successful films.
Maintaining Privacy While Seeking Recognition
Despite the personal accolades, Mendes made it clear that this post would be one of the few times they would publicly share their relationship on her platform. “This is the last time I post a pic of my man and the total babe that is Emily Blunt. No más!” she quipped, highlighting a balance between enjoying their family life and celebrity status while still valuing privacy. Such boundaries are commendable, especially in an era where sharing one’s life online can lead to unintended scrutiny.
Further, Mendes’ choice to spotlight Gosling’s efforts brings attention to the importance of advocacy within the industry. The acknowledgment that stunt performers—whose lives often hinge on risky and physically demanding roles—deserve accolades demonstrates a shift in perspective that is long overdue. Murphy’s Law often reigns in action films; without stunt doubles, many of the visual spectacles beloved by audiences would remain purely hypothetical.
The Industry’s Response
The Academy’s decision to officially recognize stunt design has been met with enthusiasm from various industry professionals. Academy President Janet Yang and CEO Bill Kramer heralded this decision as a recognition of the longstanding contributions of stunt designers and performers. They called attention to how integral stunt design has been in filmmaking since the industry’s inception. The collaborative efforts highlighted by Mendes’ support and the Academy’s acknowledgment show a unified front advocating for equity within the film industry.
Ultimately, Mendes’ heartfelt proclamation transcends a mere acknowledgment of Ryan Gosling’s professional milestone; it encapsulates a broader movement to elevate voices that have long remained in the shadows. The success of the stunt community is now set to be commemorated among the industry’s highest honors—the Oscars—a victory that inspires and reminds us of the hard work invested behind the scenes. While Mendes and Gosling may cherish their privacy, their commitment to celebrating critical contributions to cinema creates a powerful narrative of recognition and respect within the film world.
A Familial Perspective on Career Sacrifices
As the couple navigates their way through both public admiration and personal commitments, Mendes has also candidly shared her own decision to step back from acting. Since 2014, she has taken on the role of primary caregiver for their two daughters, Esmeralda and Amada. Mendes described her decision as the “easiest” she ever made, showcasing a rare honesty about the choices that define her life and career. Balancing motherhood and the career aspirations of two individuals in the limelight requires immense dedication and is a testament to both Mendes’ and Gosling’s values, grounding their relationship in a shared commitment to family.
Through their intertwining journeys, Mendes and Gosling serve as reminders that love and career do not have to be at odds but can instead enrich each other and provide a platform for meaningful change in countless arenas.