Did Monica Barbaro sing in A Complete Unknown?

From Airplanes to Harmonies: Monica Barbaro’s Audacious Path to Playing Joan Baez

Monica Barbaro, known for her commanding presence in “Top Gun: Maverick” and the gritty realism of “Chicago Justice,” is poised to take on a role that will showcase a completely different dimension of her talent: portraying the legendary folk singer Joan Baez in the upcoming Bob Dylan biopic, “A Complete Unknown.” While her acting prowess is well-documented, the path to landing this particular role involved a surprising and, frankly, courageous act: singing for the audition despite lacking prior experience.

The year was 2020, and Barbaro, ambitious and driven, decided to throw her hat into the ring for the Baez role. Many actors might have felt intimidated by the prospect, knowing Baez’s powerful vocals and distinctive guitar style are intrinsic to her identity. However, Barbaro saw an opportunity and seized it. With no prior experience playing the guitar and, arguably more importantly, without claiming to be a seasoned singer, she bravely sang during her audition.

This bold move wasn’t about showcasing pre-existing musical talent; instead, it demonstrated a crucial quality: raw vulnerability and a willingness to embrace a challenge. It spoke volumes about her dedication and her commitment to understanding the essence of Joan Baez. She likely wasn’t trying to perfectly emulate Baez’s iconic voice, but rather conveying the spirit and emotional depth behind the songs.

Landing the role of Joan Baez is undoubtedly a significant leap for Barbaro. While “Top Gun: Maverick” cemented her as an action star, “A Complete Unknown,” directed by James Mangold, offers a chance to delve into a deeply complex and historically significant figure. Her willingness to sing, despite lacking formal training, highlights a key element of her approach to acting: a fearlessness in tackling new challenges and a commitment to delivering an authentic and compelling performance.

Ultimately, Monica Barbaro’s story is a testament to the power of embracing vulnerability and taking risks. Her decision to sing in the audition, even without established musical skills, showcased a crucial element of her artistic spirit and ultimately paved the way for her to portray one of the most iconic voices of a generation. The world awaits to see her bring Joan Baez to life, and it all started with a song – sung with courage and conviction.