Hollywood actor Ryan Reynolds is on the brink of a significant financial boost thanks to his co-ownership of Wrexham AFC. The Welsh club, owned alongside Rob McElhenney, is vying for a play-off place that could lead them to the Premier League.
Wrexham on the Verge of Premier League Promotion
Currently sitting sixth in the Championship, Wrexham faces a crucial match against Middlesbrough. A win would secure their place in the play-offs. Their position is precarious, as they are tied on points with Hull City and just one point ahead of Derby County.
£100 Million Financial Incentive
Promotion to the Premier League offers a financial windfall estimated at £100 million for Wrexham in their first season. This windfall largely comes from lucrative broadcasting deals. With further commercial income and sponsorship opportunities, the estimated overall financial impact could exceed £170 million over three years, even factoring in potential parachute payments if the team is relegated.
Growth in Club Valuation Since Investment
Since purchasing Wrexham for £2 million in 2020, Reynolds and McElhenney’s investment has led to remarkable growth. The club is now valued at approximately £350 million, a direct result of their successful run and the global exposure from the documentary series “Welcome to Wrexham.”
Ryan Reynolds’ Impressive Net Worth
Ryan Reynolds’ net worth is approximately $400 million (£295 million), making him one of Hollywood’s highest earners. In 2024, he was ranked as the second highest-paid actor, with earnings close to £79 million, following Dwayne Johnson.
- Significant earnings from major films like “Deadpool” and “Wolverine.”
- Business ventures such as the sale of Aviation Gin for $600 million (£443 million) in 2020.
- Major share sale in Mint Mobile to T-Mobile for $1.35 billion (£997 million) in 2023.
Despite past losses estimated at $12 million (£8.9 million), Reynolds continues to invest significantly in Wrexham, contributing over £20 million since acquiring the club.
Personal Life and Previous Relationships
Ryan Reynolds has been married to actress Blake Lively since 2012. They met during the filming of “Green Lantern” and share four children: James, Inez, Betty, and Olin. Lively has been a supportive presence at Wrexham games, often sharing heartfelt messages on social media about the club’s successes.
Before Lively, Reynolds was engaged to Alanis Morissette and had relationships with several other Hollywood stars, including Scarlett Johansson. His marriage to Johansson in 2008 ended in 2010, citing demanding careers as a contributing factor.
How Reynolds and McElhenney Became Co-Owners
The journey to Wrexham’s ownership began with McElhenney’s fascination with football, inspired during the COVID-19 pandemic. He initially reached out to Reynolds to discuss the potential of investing in the club. Their £2 million takeover in November 2020 marked the beginning of an extraordinary chapter in Wrexham’s history.
Despite their initial limited acquaintance, the two have become close friends. McElhenney describes Reynolds as a “kind and generous soul” and appreciates the bond that has formed through their shared venture into football.
