Ryan Gosling exits Universal's Daniels event film

Despite initial efforts to finalise an agreement for Ryan Gosling to star in Universal's secret unnamed project directed by Daniels, which includes Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert, insiders now confirm that Gosling has opted out of appearing in the film.

As reported by Deadline, Gosling was in talks to take on the lead role, it was also revealed that filming was scheduled to commence in Los Angeles this summer following the acquisition of a California Tax Credit.

The project could not move forward as planned, and as a result, the studio and Gosling couldn't finalize the deal.

Although a specific scheduling issue wasn't disclosed, Gosling recently starred in the successful Amazon MGM Studios film Project Hail Mary, which has grossed over $300 million worldwide since its March 20 release.

Its success can be credited to the extensive promotional efforts by Gosling and the studio.

Coupled with the lengthy shoot of his upcoming movie, Star Wars: Starfighter, which wrapped up his 2025, it seems a longer break than anticipated conflicted with the project's filming schedule.

Despite Gosling’s exit, Universal and Daniels remain committed to their scheduled timeline.

Considering Gosling's high regard for the script, the role he was considered for is expected to attract significant interest. Details regarding the plot remain under wraps.

Kwan, Scheinert, and Jonathan Wang are set to produce through their Playgrounds’ strategic deal with Universal. The film is scheduled for release on November 19, 2027.