Before Ryan Gosling became a worldwide phenomenon for his role in Barbie, he was first known as Rachel McAdams’ love interest in The Notebook (2004). There is no denying that their chemistry was unparalleled, and it even translated from the screen to real life. After the production wrapped up, McAdams and Gosling started dating.
The role of Allie Hamilton was a very coveted one with a lineup of big celebrities vying for the part, including Britney Spears, Reese Witherspoon, and Jessica Biel. At that time, McAdams was not yet famous, but luck was on her side, and she proved it with talent.
Rachel McAdams Reveals The Notebook Audition Was Her Best Experience
In a behind-the-scene footage shared by Fandango, it was revealed that Rachel McAdams had a different approach when she auditioned for the role. Despite having limited time and preparation, she managed to familiarize herself with the story and the character. Ryan Gosling recalled how his co-star wanted to dive deep into the audition right away.
While other actresses who tried out for the role wanted to discuss the script, McAdams wished to dive straight into the scene. The actor was quite impressed with the actress’ courage, and when they were in the middle of performing, everyone ended up shedding buckets of tears. Even casting director Matthew Berry had to take a moment because it was, indeed, an emotional scene.
At this point, it has become undeniable that McAdams and Gosling shared an electrifying chemistry, and the tandem was destined to play their respective roles. The Mean Girls actress shared her honest sentiments about the audition:
“There was just a feeling that everything sort of fit, and everything worked, and it was the best audition experience I’ve ever had, and I just walked out of that room, and I was just in another world. I just couldn’t catch my breath.”
Director Nick Cassavetes confirmed that he found the best actors for the film, and he was very ecstatic with the outcome. McAdams’ last-minute audition turned out to be one of her biggest movies in Hollywood.
Why Did Rachel McAdams And Ryan Gosling Break Up?
While it is known that McAdams and Gosling had a difficult time getting along on the set of The Notebook, their characters also felt the same. Despite their differences, the pair dated for two years, from 2005 to 2007. Unfortunately, they broke up but shortly reignited the flame in 2008.
Gosling once told GQ that McAdams was one of the greatest lovers he has ever known. He reiterated that people should not assume their love story was anything like that in The Notebook. It was far more romantic. Like a popular movie trope, they went from enemies to lovers.
Sadly, after realizing they were not compatible anymore, the pair decided to part ways. Gosling revealed that show business was the main reason they could not be together. Despite the bitter ending, there is no bad blood between the ex-lovers.
When McAdams was asked if she would like to work with Gosling again in the future, she replied in the affirmative. In fact, the actor was up for the role of Doctor Strange, although the part went to Benedict Cumberbatch. Nonetheless, only time will tell when the ex-couple gets to star in a movie again.
The Notebook is available on Netflix.
