Oscar Nominee Barbaro Reflects on Role as Joan Baez

LOS ANGELES, CA — Actress Monica Barbaro is set to make her triumphant return to the Academy Awards on March 2 as a nominee for Best Supporting Actress for her performance as Joan Baez in the critically acclaimed biopic about Bob Dylan. The film, which focuses on Dylan’s pivotal decision to go electric at the 1965 Newport Folk Festival, has already garnered eight Oscar nominations and over $90 million at the box office since its December release.

Two years ago, Barbaro attended the Oscars as part of the cast of “Top Gun: Maverick,” where she embraced the moment, realizing it might happen only once in her life. “I wanted to embrace every moment and enjoy it,” said Barbaro, reflecting on that experience. “I may never be in this room again. So savor it.” This year, however, she returns not merely as an admirer but as a recognized talent in her own right.

Currently, the 31-year-old actress is not only basking in the success of the film but navigating her newfound celebrity status. “I’m truly so new to this,” she admitted during an interview. “At the junket, I kept asking my publicist, ‘Did I do OK?’ I just don’t know how I fit into this space.” Barbaro noted her imposter syndrome, a common feeling among actors, as she grapples with the accolades and expectations.

Barbaro’s portrayal of Baez has been a subject of acclaim. The actress acknowledged the pressure of stepping into the shoes of such an iconic figure, admitting, “Joan’s shoes to fill were so immense.” Her dedication to the role included learning guitar, an endeavor she described as challenging due to Baez’s unique fingerpicking style. “I had no experience at that,” Barbaro recalled. “I would have a metronome at a snail’s pace to even get two fingers to pluck strings at the same time.”

Despite her initial trepidation, Barbaro reached out to Baez, who expressed support during the filming process. “If I were to interview her and not be playing her in a movie, I would be incredibly nervous,” Barbaro said. “But I felt something in my subconscious kept pushing me to talk to her, and I’m so glad I did.” Baez praised Barbaro’s effort, highlighting the actress’s commitment to embodying her character. “She looked enough like me and she had my gestures down. Kudos to her for taking the role on,” Baez remarked.

As she navigates this whirlwind of recognition, Barbaro reflected on the warmth she has experienced in the industry. The acknowledgment from established artists, including famed actress Glenn Close at the Golden Globes, has made her feel more secure in her position. “I learned that a lot of these awards gatherings are artists in awe of each other in the room, and it’s surreal to be a part of it,” Barbaro expressed.

Barbaro’s upcoming Oscar nomination marks a significant milestone in her career. She was previously recognized as one of Variety’s 10 Actors to Watch, a distinction she never anticipated. “I couldn’t have fathomed this possibility,” she noted with humility. “But I feel like I’ve won the lottery.”

The Oscars will take place on March 2 and will air on ABC, showcasing not only Barbaro but a myriad of talented individuals and stories from the past year.