Ryan Gosling Considers a Career in Science

Why It Matters

The film’s positive, problem-solving portrayal of science and visible engagement with NASA could boost public interest in space exploration and help Hollywood produce more scientifically credible stories. Such collaborations also strengthen science outreach and credibility for big-budget science fiction projects.

Summary

Actor Ryan Gosling visited NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory while promoting Project Hail Mary, the film adaptation of Andy Weir’s novel, and spoke with scientists and creatives about bringing the story to screen. He described why the book’s solution-oriented, optimistic take on the future drew him to produce and star in the movie, and joked about possibly pivoting to a real science career. Gosling emphasized authentic, often clumsy depictions of zero gravity—veteran astronauts on set said the portrayals felt truer than typical ‘space ballet.’ The visit highlighted collaboration between Hollywood and scientific institutions to ground blockbuster storytelling in real science.

Original Description

Ryan Gosling might not be a formally trained scientist, but in the new science fiction movie “Project Hail Mary” he plays a science teacher who ends up on an interstellar space mission. Our associate books editor Brianne Kane sat down with Gosling in the mission control room at NASA's Jet Propulsion Lab and asked the actor about his experience working on this film.

"Project Hail Mary," which is based on a beloved science fiction book by Andy Weir, premieres on March 20, 2026.

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