Ryan Gosling gratefully honors wife Eva Mendes in acceptance speech: 'She's the girl of my dreams'

In a rare public display of affection, actor Ryan Gosling expressed his gratitude for his long-time partner, Eva Mendes, during his acceptance speech at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival on Saturday night.

The 43-year-old actor, honored with the Kirk Douglas Award for Excellence in Film, took a moment to praise Mendes as the girl of his dreams.

"Most importantly, I got to meet the girl of my dreams, Eva Mendes, and have two dream children," Gosling declared during his acceptance speech. The couple shares daughters Esmeralda, nine, and Amada, seven.

Gosling, known for his roles in films like "La La Land," expressed his deep appreciation for the life he has built, crediting movies for making his life a dream.

Ryan paid tribute to his supporters

While Gosling admitted that he was "not prepared" for the moment and joked about needing more champagne, he acknowledged the impact of cinema on his life and career. He paid tribute to "Barbie" director Greta Gerwig and actor Steve Carrell.

The actor also acknowledged the influence of his mother, Donna, who homeschooled him and played a crucial role in nurturing his passion for acting.

"Up until this point, I've only ever thought about just how much cinema had done for me. I had never really thought about what I've done for cinema, as far back as I can remember," the actor expressed.

Eva and Ryan are a private couple

Despite being together for 12 years, Gosling and Mendes maintain a private relationship, rarely appearing together in public or making public statements about their personal lives.

Last year, Mendes explained her preference for privacy, stating that she values their private life and chooses not to share it on the red carpet.

While this public declaration of affection by Gosling is a departure from their usual privacy, it serves as a rare and heartfelt acknowledgment of his gratitude and love for Mendes.