Chris Stapleton announced his upcoming performance on Saturday Night Live on Wednesday afternoon (March 13), but it’s his social media caption that’s drawing attention from commenters.
Stapleton is slated to take the stage next month. He was confirmed as the musical guest of the show, hosted by award-winning actor Ryan Gosling. Gosling, notably, played Ken in one of his latest roles. Barbie premiered over the summer, also starring Margot Robbie, America Ferrera and others. The record-breaking film also included Gosling’s musical number with “I’m Just Ken.” Gosling, wearing a Barbie-pink suit, delivered a standout performance during the 96th Academy Awards on Sunday evening (March 10).
“I’m just Chris,” Stapleton wrote in his caption on Instagram on Wednesday, nodding to the fan-favorite Barbie anthem. As of publication time, hundreds of commenters applauded the caption and added references of their own, including: “I’m just Chris. AHHHHH! This is going to be epiccccc,” “You’re Chrisnough. 👏👏,” “You’re Kenough, Chris!”
Stapleton is one of the latest country artists to make a Ken reference following the Greta Gerwig-directed film’s premiere. Lainey Wilson was “having a Barbie moment” and covered “I’m Just Ken” ahead of the 66th Grammy Awards last month. Shania Twain reacted to the unveiling of her new Barbie doll by referencing one of Gosling’s most popular lines in the movie (“SUBLIME!”).
Catch Stapleton and Gosling on Saturday Night Live on April 13.