Ryan Reynolds' Financial Empire and Wrexham's FA Cup Ambitions
Ryan Reynolds is set to lead Wrexham into a high-stakes FA Cup fifth-round match against Premier League giants Chelsea this Saturday evening. The Championship side will host the Blues at the Racecourse Ground in what promises to be a blockbuster cup encounter. Wrexham secured their place in this round with a narrow 1-0 victory over Ipswich Town, thanks to a goal from Josh Windass, while Chelsea dominated Hull City with a 4-0 win, featuring a hat-trick from Pedro Neto and a strike from Estevao.
The Rise of Wrexham Under Reynolds and McElhenney
Since taking over Wrexham in 2021 alongside Rob McElhenney, Reynolds has overseen a remarkable transformation of the club. Under manager Phil Parkinson, Wrexham has achieved three consecutive promotions, now eyeing a spot in the Premier League. Currently positioned for the play-offs in the Championship, the FA Cup offers a valuable opportunity to test their mettle against top-tier opposition and potentially secure silverware.
Ryan Reynolds' Impressive Net Worth
Reynolds' business acumen has significantly boosted his wealth, with estimates placing his net worth between $400 million (£300 million) and $448 million (£336 million). A major contributor to this fortune is his stake in Mint Mobile, acquired by T-Mobile in 2023, reportedly valued at over £200 million. Additionally, he owned a 20% share in Aviation Gin, sold to Diageo for around £450 million.
His involvement with Wrexham has also proven lucrative. The recent sale of a portion of the club to Apollo Sports Capital values Wrexham at an astonishing £350 million. Earlier this year, Reynolds and McElhenney recouped £15 million in loans from the club, showcasing their financial savvy. Beyond investments, Reynolds earns approximately £100 million annually from acting roles and royalties, further bolstered by the success of the FX series Welcome to Wrexham, which generates additional income through profits.
Reynolds' Past Marriage to Scarlett Johansson
Before his current marriage to actress Blake Lively, with whom he shares three daughters and one son, Reynolds was married to Hollywood star Scarlett Johansson. Their relationship began after his split from fiancée Alanis Morissette, leading to an engagement announcement just over a year later and marriage in September 2008. However, the union lasted only two years, with separation announced and divorce finalized by July 2011.
Reynolds has spoken little about the divorce, admitting in May 2011 that he was still "in pain" from the experience. Johansson, in a 2023 conversation on Gwyneth Paltrow's Goop podcast, described Reynolds as "a good guy," reflecting a respectful distance between the former couple.
Response to the 'Disney FC' Nickname
Reynolds directly addressed the 'Disney FC' moniker used by rival fans, a reference to Wrexham's documentary series Welcome to Wrexham on Disney+. The nickname emerged as a common insult, highlighted when former player James McClean thanked the club upon his departure, referring to it as "Disney FC." In response, Reynolds acknowledged the similarities humorously, stating, "We like parades, we like fans, we like costumed characters and merch. I could go on."
Co-owner Rob McElhenney added a more pointed retort, inviting supporters to "experience that magic" while dismissing critics with explicit language. The exchange underscores the owners' focus on positive engagement with fans and their disregard for detractors, as they prepare for critical matches like the upcoming FA Cup tie against Chelsea.
This blend of financial success, personal history, and spirited club management defines Reynolds' impact on Wrexham, setting the stage for an exciting FA Cup showdown.
