Why Eva Mendes Quit Her Career in Hollywood – The Reason Points to Ryan Gosling

May 5, 2024

Over a decade ago, Hollywood’s beloved star, Eva Mendes, quit her illustrious acting career.
She was riding the waves of fame with her captivating performances and undeniable talent. Mendes’ sudden retreat from the spotlight left her fans and followers stunned and curious.
The reason behind this significant career shift is intricately tied to her relationship with Ryan Gosling.

Eva Mendes attends the 2009 Parsons Fashion benefit on April 29, 2009 in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Since Eva Mendes departed from the limelight, she has been notably absent from the red carpet. She often leaves her partner, Ryan Gosling, to walk it alone. This was particularly evident on March 10, during the 2024 Oscars. Read More

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Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling attend “The Place Beyond The Pines” premiere on September 7, 2012 in Toronto, Canada | Source: Getty Images

While Gosling attended the event, Mendes stayed backstage. A post she shared on Instagram captured Mendes outside Gosling’s dressing room. It was accompanied by a caption, “Always by my man.”

Eva Mendes and Ryan Gosling attend the SNL after party on September 30, 2017 in New York City | Source: Getty Images

This unusual dynamic has sparked speculation and concern among internet users. Some suggest that Gosling’s A-list status and younger age have led to his career taking precedence over Mendes’. They question why Mendes doesn’t accompany Gosling on the red carpet if she wants to show their relationship publicly.

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Others express concern about Mendes’ financial security. This is because she is a stay-at-home mom, especially since she and Gosling are unmarried. They believe it could leave her without alimony in the event of a separation.

Ryan Gosling at the 96th Annual Oscars on March 10, 2024 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

Mendes is sometimes absent from awards and events even before the Oscars. This has led to speculation that she and Gosling might be living separately. Some comments suggest that the dynamics of their relationship, as portrayed in the media, give off controlling vibes.

Eva Mendes during the launch of a new Cartier Love Charity bracelet on June 11, 2009 in New York City | Source: Getty Images

Some users have expressed doubts about the longevity of the couple’s relationship. Others have suggested that Gosling seems less invested in the relationship than Mendes. Other people ask if it’s okay for Mendes not to go on the red carpet. They’re worried, especially when Gosling is up for an award.

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ne user commented, “Maybe behind closed doors things are super smooth sailing but have a feeling now that the kids are getting older she’s not feeling quite so secure with things. She went from being very private to suddenly giving interviews and defining their roles. Time will tell. [sic]”

Eva Mendes’ latest project, from a post dated February 22, 2024 | Source: Instagram/evamendes

Mendes focused on her family, transitioning from acting to being a full-time parent. This decision, she explained, was a “no-brainer.” It allowed her to spend more time with her children while maintaining a career away from the camera. Mendes also expressed her admiration for Gosling’s work ethic.

Eva Mendes attends the “Trust the Man” premiere on August 7, 2006 in New York City | Source: Getty Images

She fondly recalls their shared experience on the set of The Place Beyond the Pines,” where they first met. The actress is in awe of Gosling’s commitment to his craft. She said, “I have never experienced anything like that. The way he works, his commitment to his craft… But unfortunately — or fortunately — there is only one Ryan.”

Eva Mendes debuts her new signature tabletop collection, Vida for Espana on January 30, 2010 in Costa Mesa, California | Source: Getty Images

While Gosling continues to make movies, Mendes has taken a step back from acting. She has, instead, chosen to focus on their two daughters, Esmeralda Amada and Amada Lee. Despite this shift, Mendes still supports Gosling’s career. She even shared her thoughts on his memorable performance at the 2024 Oscars.

Eva Mendes during the Christian Dior Store Opening on September 1, 2010 in Costa Mesa, California | Source: Getty Images

Mendes explained her Instagram post where she urged Gosling to “come home” to “put the kids to bed.” The post was made the same day she was seen outside Gosling’s dressing room. It encapsulates their relationship dynamic. She explained, “You go, do your job the best you can, and then come home. [sic]”

Eva Mendes in her kitchen, from a video dated March 13, 2024 | Source: Instagram/evamendes

Mendes has journeyed from Hollywood to now wanting to stay at home. Her journey paints a picture of a woman who has embraced new roles and responsibilities. Despite the changes, she remains deeply connected to her partner.

While she chose to support Gosling from behind the scenes at the Oscars, he had the support of his family. Gosling’s sister, Mandi, accompanied the actor on the red carpet.

Eva Mendes in her kitchen, from a video dated March 13, 2024 | Source: Instagram/evamendes

This sparked headlines. Many outlets noted Mendes’ absence and called her Gosling’s “wife.” This public perception of their relationship may have been fueled by Mendes wearing a gold band on her ring finger.

Eva Mendes speaks at “Create & Cultivate” Los Angeles on February 22, 2020 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images.

One sighting was in February 2020 when she spoke at an event called “Create & Cultivate.” The ring was also visible in November 2023 when she shared a video of herself petting a horse.

Barbara Ryan and Eva Mendes pose for a photo on November 18, 2022 in Sydney, Australia | Source: Getty Images

Despite Mendes’ absence from the red carpet, she has made it clear that she is Gosling’s biggest cheerleader. Gosling has shared how Mendes and their daughters have been his sounding board, offering him advice for his performance at the Oscars.

This indicates that Mendes prefers to keep their relationship private. She wants their private lives separate from their professional lives. She further clarified, “Oh wait – for those who may catch me in a ‘lie’ – we only were on the red carpet together once when promoting this film.”

Ryan Gosling at the 96th Annual Oscars on March 10, 2024 in Los Angeles, California | Source: Getty Images

On the other hand, Gosling has never held back with public declarations of love for Mendes. In a 2015 interview, he stated, “I know that I’m with the person I’m supposed to be with.” The actor added that the only quality he looks for in a woman is “that she’s Eva Mendes.”

Ryan Gosling speaks during an official Academy screening of “The Big Short” on December 7, 2015 in New York City | Source: Getty Images

In 2016, he was asked about his thoughts on the 3:1 girl-to-boy ratio in his house. He described it as “heaven,” likening it to “walking through a field of flowers every day.” He added, “I live with angels. It’s like a ray of sunshine in a dark time honestly.”

Gosling deeply appreciates and admires Mendes. His heartfelt speech at the 2017 Golden Globes further highlighted this fact. He thanked her for managing their home and caring for their family while he was filming “La La Land.”