Barbie actor Ryan Gosling has voiced his disappointment over the omission of the neon comedy’s director Greta Gerwig and lead actress Margot Robbie from two major categories in the nominations for the 96th Academy Awards.

“It's an understatement to say I’m disappointed that Greta and Margot were not nominated in their respective categories. Their work should be recognised along with the other very deserving nominees,” the La La Land actor said in a statement issued after the nominations for the 2024 Oscars ended on Tuesday.

Gosling, who himself got nominated for playing Ken in the film, went on to underline the significance of Gerwig and Robbie’s contributions to the success of the Barbie movie. “I am so happy and honored to be nominated, especially for portraying a plastic doll named Ken. But there is no Ken without Barbie, and there is no Barbie movie without Greta Gerwig and Margot Robbie, the two people most responsible for this history-making, globally-celebrated film,” he said.

The actor also expressed his joy for co-star America Ferrera, who received a nomination for best supporting actress for her portrayal of Gloria in the film.

Highlighting Gerwig and Robbie’s contribution in pushing the cultural boundaries of filmmaking, the La La Land actor also mentioned how the entire movie was crafted only with a couple of plastic dolls. “Gerwig and Robbie managed to create a movie that not only made audiences laugh and broke their hearts but also pushed the cultural boundaries, making history in the process,” he signed off.

Though absent from the Best Director category, Gerwig secured a nod alongside her husband, Noah Baumbach, for best adapted screenplay. Similarly, Margot Robbie missed out on a Best Actress nomination but received recognition for her role as a producer in the Best Picture category.

The 2024 Oscars ceremony is scheduled to take place on March 10 at the iconic Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles.