Ryan Gosling on Canadian roots: 'I always felt like I had something to go back to'

Ryan Goslingdoesn't often get personal but saysgrowing up in Canada gives him a unique perspective on life in Hollywood.

"I think it was very helpful to grow up in Canada, or in a small town," Gosling told CBC News in Los Angeles. "Ithink if you grow up here, it might be hard to remember that there's a world outside of it."

The 36-year-old actor, who recentlyreceived aGolden Globenominationfor his role as a struggling jazz musician in the filmLa La Land, said unlike his character, his roots offered a safety net for what can be a tumultuous career.

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"I always felt like I had something to go back to so the stakes weren't ever that high."

Before the interview, Emma Stone, who was seated next to Gosling as they promotedLa La Land,got playful about her co-star'shome country.

"Canadians!" Stone said after learning interviewerZulekhaNathooisfrom Calgary.

"Don't let her say it like that," Gosling joked.

Ryan Gosling on the Canadian perspective

8 years ago

Duration 1:12

Actor Ryan Gosling talks to CBC's Zulekha Nathoo about growing up Canadian and the film La La Land.

"I said that with excitement and joy," Stone responded.

"She says it like it's acutething," he dead-panned. "She just thinks of us as America's hat."

London, Ont.-born Gosling got his start on Disney Channel'sMickey Mouse Clubas a child and starred on Canadian shows such asAre YouAfraid of the Dark?andGoosebumpsbefore getting widespread attention for his role in the 2004 romantic filmThe Notebook.

Since then, he has gained critical acclaim for a number of films, includingBlue Valentine,Ides of MarchandThe Big Short. Goslinghas two children with actress Eva Mendes.