Monica Barbaro, the breakout star of Top Gun: Maverick, has been riding a wave of excitement since the film’s monumental success and its recent Oscar nomination for Best Picture. In a candid interview, Barbaro opened up about the camaraderie among the cast, the whirlwind of emotions following the Academy Awards announcement, and her hopes for a potential third installment in the iconic franchise. Known for her role as Phoenix, a fierce and skilled fighter pilot, Barbaro has become a fan favorite, embodying the spirit of the Top Gun legacy while carving out her own space in its storied history.
The Oscar Buzz: A Shared Triumph
When Top Gun: Maverick earned a Best Picture nomination at the 2023 Oscars, it wasn’t just a win for the filmmakers—it was a celebration for the entire cast and crew. Barbaro revealed that the news sent their group chat into overdrive. “Our group chat absolutely blew up,” she said with a laugh. “It was a mix of excitement, disbelief, and just pure joy. We’ve all been on this journey together, and to see the film recognized in such a huge way was surreal.”
The nomination marked a significant milestone for the Top Gun franchise, which had been dormant for over three decades before Maverick soared back into theaters. Barbaro credited the film’s success to its ability to balance nostalgia with fresh storytelling. “It’s not easy to revisit a classic and make it feel both familiar and new, but [director] Joseph Kosinski and the entire team pulled it off. The nomination is a testament to their vision and the heart they poured into this project.”
Phoenix Takes Flight: Barbaro’s Journey to Top Gun
Barbaro’s path to joining the Top Gun universe was anything but conventional. A classically trained dancer turned actress, she initially pursued a career in ballet before transitioning to theater and, eventually, film and television. Her breakout role came in the ABC drama The Good Doctor, but it was her audition for Top Gun: Maverick that catapulted her into the global spotlight.
“I remember walking into the audition room and feeling this mix of nerves and determination,” Barbaro recalled. “Phoenix is such a strong, confident character, and I wanted to do her justice. When I got the call that I’d been cast, it was one of those moments where you just scream into a pillow because you can’t believe it’s real.”
Phoenix quickly became a standout character in Maverick, earning praise for her wit, skill, and unwavering determination. Barbaro’s performance resonated with audiences, particularly women and young girls who saw themselves reflected in her character’s strength and resilience. “I’ve had so many people tell me how much Phoenix means to them,” Barbaro said. “It’s incredibly humbling to know that this role has inspired others to chase their dreams, no matter how impossible they seem.”
The Cast’s Bond: A Family in the Skies
One of the most enduring aspects of Top Gun: Maverick is the palpable chemistry among its cast. From Tom Cruise’s mentorship to the playful banter between the younger pilots, the film radiates a sense of camaraderie that feels authentic—because it is. Barbaro described the cast as a tight-knit group that has remained close even after filming wrapped.
“We really became like a family,” she said. “We trained together, flew together, and supported each other through the highs and lows of making this movie. That bond translates on screen, and I think it’s one of the reasons the film resonates so deeply with people.”
The group chat, which includes Cruise, Miles Teller, Glen Powell, and the rest of the cast, has become a space for sharing updates, inside jokes, and words of encouragement. “Tom is the ultimate hype man,” Barbaro revealed. “He’s always checking in, celebrating our wins, and reminding us to keep pushing forward. It’s amazing to have that kind of support from someone who’s been in the industry for so long.”
Weighing In on a Third Movie: ‘The Sky’s the Limit’
With Top Gun: Maverick grossing over $1.4 billion worldwide and earning critical acclaim, speculation about a third film has been rampant. While no official announcements have been made, Barbaro shared her thoughts on the possibility of returning to the cockpit.
“I would love to see where Phoenix’s story goes next,” she said. “There’s so much potential to explore her journey, whether it’s taking on new challenges as a pilot or mentoring the next generation. The sky’s the limit, pun intended.”
Barbaro also expressed enthusiasm for the idea of expanding the Top Gun universe. “The world of Top Gun is so rich, and there are so many stories to tell. Whether it’s a direct sequel or a spin-off focusing on the other pilots, I think fans would be thrilled to see more.”
When asked about working with Tom Cruise again, Barbaro’s face lit up. “Tom is a force of nature. His dedication to his craft and his passion for storytelling are truly inspiring. If there’s a third movie, I’d be honored to work with him again and continue this incredible journey.”
Life After Top Gun: What’s Next for Barbaro?
While the Top Gun franchise has been a defining chapter in Barbaro’s career, she’s eager to explore new roles and challenges. “I’m so grateful for everything Top Gun has given me, but I also want to keep growing as an artist,” she said. “I’m looking for projects that push me out of my comfort zone and allow me to tell stories that matter.”
Barbaro recently wrapped filming on an independent drama and is in talks for several high-profile projects, though she remained tight-lipped about specifics. “I’m excited about what’s coming next,” she teased. “It’s a mix of genres and characters that I think people will be surprised by.”
A Message to Fans: Gratitude and Inspiration
As Barbaro reflects on her journey with Top Gun: Maverick, she’s quick to express her gratitude to the fans who have embraced the film and her character. “The support has been overwhelming in the best way,” she said. “To see people connect with Phoenix and the story we’re telling is incredibly rewarding. It’s a reminder of why I fell in love with acting in the first place.”
She also hopes that Phoenix’s story inspires others to pursue their passions, no matter the obstacles. “Phoenix is a fighter, both in the air and on the ground. She doesn’t let fear or doubt hold her back, and I think that’s a message we all need sometimes. If this role encourages even one person to chase their dreams, then I’ve done my job.”
Conclusion: Soaring to New Heights
Monica Barbaro’s journey from ballet dancer to Top Gun star is a testament to her talent, determination, and willingness to take risks. As she navigates the next phase of her career, one thing is clear: her star is only rising.
Whether she’s reprising her role as Phoenix in a potential third Top Gun film or exploring new creative horizons, Barbaro’s future is as bright as the skies she’s conquered. And if her group chat is any indication, she’ll have plenty of cheerleaders—and maybe a few fighter jets—along the way.
As she put it, “The best is yet to come. And I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me.”