In a rare and heartfelt gesture, Eva Mendes recently took to social media to express her admiration for her longtime partner, Ryan Gosling. Known for keeping their relationship largely private, Mendes broke the norm with a public shout-out that captured widespread attention. Her post celebrated Gosling’s pivotal role in advocating for stunt performers in Hollywood, a cause that culminated in a major win — the Academy Awards announcing the addition of a Best Stunt Design category beginning in 2028.
Mendes shared her thoughts in a warm and supportive message, describing herself as “extra proud” of Gosling for using his influence to elevate the voices of an often-overlooked segment of the film industry. The shout-out was tied to Gosling’s recent work on The Fall Guy, a film that centers around a stuntman, giving him the perfect platform to raise awareness. During the press tour, Gosling emphasized the critical role that stunt professionals play in filmmaking and campaigned for their long-overdue recognition by the Academy.
This move by the Academy marks a significant shift in how Hollywood honors behind-the-scenes talent. For decades, stunt performers have been instrumental in bringing action-packed moments to life, yet they remained absent from Oscar recognition. Gosling’s advocacy, coupled with industry-wide support, played a key part in changing that narrative. Mendes’s public praise not only honored Gosling’s efforts but also helped shine a light on the broader conversation around equitable recognition in entertainment.
The post stood out not just for its content, but because of who shared it. Mendes and Gosling have been together for over a decade, after meeting on the set of The Place Beyond the Pines in 2011. They share two daughters and have consistently kept their family life away from the public eye. Mendes rarely posts about Gosling, making this tribute particularly meaningful to fans and followers. Her choice to speak out publicly underscored the depth of her pride and the importance of the moment.
In past instances, Mendes has occasionally acknowledged Gosling’s achievements, including when he received an Oscar nomination for his role as Ken in Barbie in 2024. However, this recent message stood out for its enthusiastic tone and clear sense of admiration, capturing the emotional significance of Gosling’s advocacy work.
More than just a sweet gesture, Mendes’s post reminds the public of the power of partnership — how two people can support each other’s passions both privately and publicly. It also shows that meaningful change in the entertainment industry can be driven by those willing to use their platforms for good.
In a world where celebrity relationships are often filtered through headlines and speculation, Mendes and Gosling continue to model a connection rooted in respect, mutual support, and love. Mendes’s rare but powerful social media moment offered a glimpse into that dynamic, leaving fans feeling inspired — and perhaps a little hopeful about the impact of using one’s voice for change.