In the glitzy world of Hollywood, few stories resonate as profoundly as that of Monica Barbaro. From her breakout role in Top Gun: Maverick to her recent nomination for Best Supporting Actress at the Oscars, Barbaro’s journey is a testament to resilience and talent. As she prepares for the prestigious ceremony, she reflects on her unexpected rise and the challenges that shaped her career.
A moment to cherish
When Barbaro attended the Oscars in 2023 as part of the Top Gun: Maverick cast, she savored every moment, acutely aware of the rarity of such experiences. “I may never attend this event again,” she recalls, emphasizing the significance of the occasion. Little did she know that just two years later, she would return as a nominee for her portrayal of the iconic folk musician Joan Baez in A Complete Unknown, opposite Timothée Chalamet.
Embracing new challenges
Barbaro’s nomination has left her in a state of disbelief. “I still haven’t wrapped my head around it,” she admits, contemplating the logistics of the event, including who to invite as her plus-one. This newfound recognition comes as she juggles filming a crime drama in London and preparing to meet Baez, an encounter she describes as both thrilling and intimidating. “I hope I don’t just start crying,” she laughs, revealing her nerves about meeting the legendary musician.
Transformative preparation
To authentically embody Baez, Barbaro immersed herself in the musician’s life and music. She learned to play the guitar, studied Baez’s gestures, and even wore fake teeth to enhance her portrayal. The most profound insights came from Baez herself, whose feedback deeply impacted Barbaro’s performance. “I cried a lot when we got off the phone the first time,” she shares, illustrating the emotional connection she developed with the role.
From ballet to acting
Barbaro’s artistic journey began in ballet, but she eventually found her true calling in acting. After studying at NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts, she transitioned to the screen, landing roles in various television series. Her breakthrough came with Top Gun: Maverick, which not only showcased her talent but also instilled a newfound confidence that opened doors to significant opportunities, including her role in FUBAR alongside Arnold Schwarzenegger.
A lasting impact
Filming A Complete Unknown was a transformative experience for Barbaro, allowing her to delve deeply into a character that resonated with her on multiple levels. The emotional weight of the role lingered even after filming wrapped, as she found herself grappling with the transition from playing Baez to her next project. “I just cried,” she recalls, highlighting the profound impact the experience had on her.
Continuing the journey
Even after the cameras stopped rolling, Barbaro continues to embrace the essence of Baez. She plays guitar and writes songs, finding solace in music as a therapeutic outlet. “It feels like a sanctuary,” she reflects, emphasizing the spiritual connection she developed through the creative process. The thumb pick she used during filming serves as a tangible reminder of her journey, a totem of her artistic evolution.
