Ryan Gosling, a name that resonates with Hollywood’s glitz and glamour, has a surprising backstory that is as intriguing as it is shocking.

Known for his stellar performances and heartthrob status, Gosling’s journey to stardom is marked by a peculiar incident from his childhood. Inspired by the movie Rambo, a young Gosling once smuggled steak knives into school, an act that would set the stage for a captivating tale of influence, consequences, and redemption.

First Blood: The Rambo Influence on a Young Ryan Gosling

Rambo First BloodStallone’s First Blood influenced Ryan Gosling
As a child, Ryan Gosling was deeply influenced by Sylvester Stallone’s iconic character, John Rambo, in the movie First Blood. The film left an indelible mark on Gosling’s impressionable mind. He was so captivated by Stallone’s portrayal of Rambo that he began to see himself in the character. Gosling once confessed,
“I saw Rambo, and the movie put a spell on me. I even thought my face felt like Sylvester Stallone’s.”
This incident underscores the profound impact cinema can have on young minds, shaping their perceptions and influencing their actions in unexpected ways.

A Childhood Incident: The Steak Knife Episode and its Aftermath

Young Ryan GoslingYoung Ryan Gosling
In an act of emulation that went too far, Gosling decided to bring steak knives to school, mimicking Rambo’s action sequences. He threw them at other kids during recess, a dangerous act that led to his immediate suspension. The incident sent shockwaves through his family, leading to a significant shift in his upbringing. His parents, concerned about the influence of movies on their son, imposed restrictions on his viewing habits. Reflecting on the incident, he stated,
“I learned my lesson. I understood the impact of my actions and vowed never to repeat such a thing.”


Gosling was homeschooled for a year following the incident, a period that he describes as transformative.

Ryan Gosling’s Journey to Stardom

Gosling BarbieRyan Gosling in Barbie
Despite the rocky start, Gosling’s passion for acting remained undeterred. His journey from being a child influenced by action movies to becoming a successful actor is nothing short of inspiring. He has delivered memorable performances in films like The Notebook, Blue Valentine, and Half-Nelson, earning him critical acclaim and a place among Hollywood’s A-listers.

His reflections on the steak knife incident reveal a man who has learned from his past and used it to shape his future. In an interview, Gosling discussed the incident, acknowledging the profound influence movies can have on behavior. His story serves as a reminder of the power of cinema and the importance of discerning reality from fiction.

Source: Nicki Swift