The Best Surprise Cameos in Greta Gerwig’s ‘Barbie’

Published Jul 24, 2023

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5:07pm

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Warner Bros. Entertainment

*Warning: Major spoilers ahead*

Unless you've been living under a plastic pink Barbie convertible, you've likely seen the massive amount of press that has been going around for Greta Gerwig's new film, Barbie. The highly-anticipated comedy is a star-studded affair, with nearly too many big names to list (including Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling, America Ferrera and more). But while we've been privy to this stacked ensemble since April, there were a few faces who totally took us by surprise in Barbie. Check out the best surprise cameos below.

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1. John Cena

We were not expecting to see John Cena as a blonde, majestic merman, but lo and behold, there he was in Barbie. The day the movie premiered, he also shared this photo to his Instagram, clearly referencing his role.

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2. Rhea Perlman

Is that four-time Emmy-winning actress Rhea Perlman? Yes, that was our reaction when the comedy legend appeared on screen, playing none other than Ruth Handler, AKA the woman who invented Barbie and started it all.

Dave Benett/Getty Images

3. Lucy Boynton

You might recognize Boynton for her work in Bohemian Rhapsody, The Politician or Don't Knock Twice, but we had no idea she would be appearing as a “Proust Barbie” in the film. It's a short moment, but she kills it.

Karwai Tang/Getty Images

4. Rob Brydon

Welsh actor Rob Brydon (known for his role on the BBC sitcom Gavin & Stacey) makes quite the cameo in Barbie, where he plays the unforgettable “Sugar Daddy” doll. In 2009, Mattel said the doll was named as such because he's a daddy to his dog, “Sugar.” Mmhm, we're sure that's why.

Michael Buckner/Variety/Getty Images

5. Annie Mumolo

Comedy fans will likely recognize Anne “Annie” Mumolo for her leading role as Barb in Barb and Star Go to Vista Del Mar or her part as Vicky in Bad Moms. Well, we were given a welcome surprise when the Bridesmaids writer appeared as an anxious mom for a memorable cameo in Barbie.

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6. Helen Mirren

Okay okay, we knew about this one ahead of time and Mirren never technically *appears* in the film. Still, we were surprised when we heard her voice as the fabulous narrator, and she gives Julie Andrews from Bridgerton or Kristen Bell from Gossip Girl a run for their money.

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Joel Calfee

Associate Editor, News and Entertainment

Joel is the Associate Editor for News & Entertainment and has been reporting on all things pop culture for over 5 years. Before working at PureWow, he served as a Features...

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