Ryan Reynolds: From Deadpool to Wrexham – A Hollywood Star’s Football Obsession
Ryan Reynolds, the beloved star of Deadpool, has become synonymous with more than just blockbuster movies. He’s now a passionate football club owner, deeply invested in the remarkable story of Wrexham AFC. But his dedication to the Welsh club sometimes comes with a price – the playful frustration of his children.
A Hollywood Takeover
In February 2021, Reynolds teamed up with fellow actor Rob McElhenney (It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia) to purchase Wrexham AFC, the world’s third oldest professional football club. What began as a somewhat unlikely partnership has blossomed into a captivating tale of sporting ambition and community revitalization. Initially, neither Reynolds nor McElhenney possessed a deep understanding of the sport, but Reynolds now declares himself a “Wrexham lifer.”
From Struggle to Success
Before the Hollywood duo arrived, Wrexham AFC faced significant challenges. Relegated from the Football League in 2008, the club was saved from collapse by its supporters in 2011. However, the arrival of Reynolds and McElhenney sparked a dramatic turnaround. The club, now valued at an impressive £350 million, has achieved three consecutive promotions, reaching the Championship – a testament to their investment and vision.
The Inspiration Behind the Investment
McElhenney revealed that the Netflix documentary Sunderland ‘Til I Die inspired his desire to own a football club. “The community of Wrexham – that is what always drew me in,” he explained. “I just kept looking at the faces of the people and they looked like me. Like people I grew up with.”
The initial connection between Reynolds and McElhenney was surprisingly simple: a congratulatory Instagram message from Reynolds about McElhenney’s comedy series. This led to a lengthy email from McElhenney pitching the idea to a then-virtual stranger, seeking “movie star money” to fund the takeover. Reynolds was convinced, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Welcome to Wrexham: A Docuseries Sensation
The pair’s journey became the subject of the critically acclaimed Disney+ docuseries, Welcome to Wrexham, which has garnered 10 Emmy Awards. The series has brought global attention to the club and the town of Wrexham, showcasing their inspiring story.
Family Matters & Football Passion
Reynolds admits his children aren’t always thrilled with his football focus. “If we are walking down the street, I’ll get asked about Deadpool and it’s usually a two or three-second conversation,” he shared. “If someone talks about Wrexham, I just turn right round and park it against a street pole. My kids are like, ‘oh no!’”
Looking Ahead: Premier League Dreams & Community Impact
Under manager Phil Parkinson, Wrexham AFC is now setting its sights on a historic promotion to the Premier League. Reynolds’ passion is undeniable: “I know I’m a football fan and a Wrexham lifer because I’m inconsolable when we lose. I’ve never been as invested in winning and losing before.”
Beyond on-field success, Reynolds and McElhenney are committed to the town of Wrexham itself. They plan to complete the Kop stand at The Racecourse ground, increasing the stadium’s capacity, and establish a program of “arts and entrepreneurship” at Glyndwr University to attract more students.
“We want to draw people in, who then stay in Wrexham, to take the artistic spirit and endeavour to build something within the town using arts and business,” McElhenney explained. “Do I want to come and see us win the Premier League? Yes. Do I want to win the Champions League? Yes. But, if Wrexham, as a town, is unsuccessful while we are thriving, we have failed.”
Reynolds echoes this sentiment, viewing the club as “the big, beating heart of the community. Basically, Wrexham’s community centre. Or church. They perform the same function, in as much as they bring people together.”
Wrexham’s recent FA Cup fifth-round victory over Ipswich Town, the first in 29 years, is just the latest chapter in their “incredible journey.” With a dedicated fanbase and Hollywood backing, the future looks bright for Wrexham AFC.
