Ryan Reynolds is the co-owner of Wrexham AFC, with the Hollywood actor and entrepreneur playing a central role in the club’s rise from the National League into the upper tiers of the English Football League while helping turn it into a global sports brand.
Wrexham’s transformation since the 2021 takeover has been closely linked to Reynolds and his partnership with Rob McElhenney.
The club has achieved multiple promotions, expanded its international audience and significantly increased its commercial profile during that period.
Reynolds’ influence extends beyond ownership, shaping how Wrexham is presented to a worldwide audience.
This guide explains who Ryan Reynolds is, how he became involved with Wrexham and the role he continues to play at the Racecourse Ground.
Who is Ryan Reynolds?
Ryan Reynolds is a Canadian American actor, producer and businessman known for roles in films including Deadpool, The Proposal, Free Guy and The Adam Project.
He built his career in television before becoming one of Hollywood’s most recognisable leading actors and later a prominent entrepreneur.
That combination of entertainment and business experience has played a key role in his approach to football ownership.
How old is Ryan Reynolds and where is he from?
Ryan Rodney Reynolds was born on 23 October 1976 in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. (Yes he’s Canadian not American!)
He began acting at a young age before moving into larger television and film roles during the late 1990s and early 2000s.
Ryan Reynolds quick facts
Full name: Ryan Rodney Reynolds
Date of birth: 23 October 1976
Birthplace: Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
Nationality: Canadian American
Role: Co-owner of Wrexham AFC
Known for: Acting career, business ventures and football ownership
Who is Ryan Reynolds’ wife and does he have children?
Reynolds is married to actor Blake Lively. The couple married in 2012 and have four children together.
Reynolds and Lively have occasionally shared glimpses of their life around the club, including during a difficult FA Cup period for Wrexham where a number of social posts were shared showing life beyond football.
He was previously married to Scarlett Johansson before his current relationship with Lively.
Reynolds and Lively largely keep their family life private, although both have occasionally referenced it in interviews and public appearances.
What is Ryan Reynolds’ role at Wrexham AFC?
Reynolds is co-owner of Wrexham alongside McElhenney through the ownership structure that controls the club.
His influence has been strongest in branding, storytelling, sponsorship development and global exposure.
Football decisions have remained with manager Phil Parkinson and the club’s sporting staff.
This structure has allowed Wrexham to grow commercially while maintaining stability on the pitch.
When did Ryan Reynolds buy Wrexham AFC?
Reynolds and McElhenney completed their takeover of Wrexham in February 2021 after supporters voted overwhelmingly in favour of the deal.
The investment marked the beginning of a long-term project focused on rebuilding the club both on and off the pitch.
How Ryan Reynolds has changed Wrexham
Wrexham were a National League club when Reynolds arrived and have since climbed rapidly through the English football pyramid.
The rise on the pitch has been matched by major changes off it, including increased revenue, expanded sponsorship agreements and global recognition.
The club reported record turnover during its recent financial growth, highlighting the scale of its commercial development under the current ownership, as reported by Reuters.
Welcome to Wrexham and global impact
The documentary series Welcome to Wrexham has played a central role in the club’s global reach.
The series introduced Wrexham to a wider audience, particularly in North America, and helped establish the club as an international football story.
This exposure has supported commercial growth, tourism and merchandise demand.
Filming for a fifth season of the series is underway, with the next instalment expected to be released in 2026.
Ryan Reynolds business empire explained
Reynolds has built a strong business portfolio alongside his acting career.
His ventures include Aviation Gin, Mint Mobile and Maximum Effort, a marketing and production company.
These businesses have contributed to his commercial expertise and have influenced Wrexham’s growth strategy.
What is Ryan Reynolds’ net worth?
Estimates of Reynolds’ net worth place him among the wealthiest figures involved in football ownership outside the traditional elite.
His income is derived from acting, production work and a series of successful business ventures.
Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney partnership
Reynolds co-owns Wrexham with McElhenney, with both presenting a shared long-term vision for the club.
The partnership combines Reynolds’ global profile with McElhenney’s operational involvement.
Together, they have positioned Wrexham as a club focused on sustainable growth.
Ryan Reynolds’ relationship with Wrexham fans and community
Reynolds has consistently highlighted the importance of Wrexham’s community and identity.
His public messaging has focused on respecting the club’s history while supporting its development.
This approach has helped build a strong connection with supporters.
Ryan Reynolds’ involvement in Wrexham match coverage
Reynolds has also taken part in broadcast coverage involving Wrexham, reflecting his hands-on involvement in the club’s media presence.
These appearances highlight how the ownership approach blends football with wider entertainment exposure.
They have contributed to the club’s visibility and ongoing global interest.
What has Ryan Reynolds said about Wrexham’s future?
Reynolds has consistently outlined ambitious long-term goals for the club.
He told Sports Illustrated that reaching the Premier League has always been part of that vision.
“Our goal was always the Premier League. I mean, we’d be foolish to not aim for that.”
That ambition reflects both the ownership’s outlook and the progress already made.
Ryan Reynolds honours and recognition
Reynolds has received recognition across film and business, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
His role at Wrexham has added another dimension to his career.
He is now a central figure in one of the most significant periods in the club’s history.
At Wrexham, Reynolds is not only a co-owner but a key part of the club’s modern identity and long-term direction.
About The Author
