Ryan Reynolds has built a reputation for blending humor with genius marketing, and his 2021 appearance on Antiques Roadshow was a masterstroke of comedy and creativity. Posing as an eccentric antique owner, Reynolds brought an “ancient artifact” to the show for appraisal: a golden egg that he claimed was one of three commissioned by Cleopatra herself. The twist? The egg was a prop from his Netflix movie Red Notice, and the entire segment was a tongue-in-cheek promotion for the film.
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The moment captured Reynolds’ signature comedic style and demonstrated his knack for engaging audiences in unexpected ways. Fans were left amused, confused, and thoroughly entertained by the actor’s antics, which perfectly bridged the gap between reality TV and Hollywood marketing.
The Setup: Reynolds in Character as Nolan Booth
Appearing on Antiques Roadshow, Reynolds introduced himself as Nolan Booth, the charismatic art thief he portrayed in Red Notice. Staying in character throughout the segment, Reynolds claimed that the egg he brought to the show was a priceless artifact once belonging to Cleopatra. “It’s one of only three in existence,” he said, explaining that the egg’s rarity made it an invaluable treasure.
The show’s expert, Lark Mason, played along with the joke, treating the egg as though it were a legitimate historical artifact. Mason assessed its supposed provenance and even warned “Booth” that its stolen status might complicate efforts to sell it. “If you can clear up the regulatory issues,” Mason said with a straight face, “this could easily be worth $100 million.”
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Reynolds, fully committed to the gag, acted shocked and thrilled by the valuation. The moment captured the absurdity of Antiques Roadshow’s dramatic appraisals, while also poking fun at the over-the-top stakes of his movie.
The $100 Million Twist
The true comedic payoff of the segment came from the sheer seriousness with which everyone treated the egg’s fictional backstory. Mason claimed he had consulted with an FBI agent—played by Reynolds’ co-star Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson in Red Notice—to verify the artifact’s origins. This added layer of absurdity delighted viewers, blending the fictional universe of the film with the real-world setting of Antiques Roadshow.
Fans who were familiar with the film immediately recognized the egg as a prop, but others were briefly confused, wondering if the segment was genuine. Some even speculated about the egg’s authenticity before realizing it was part of an elaborate joke. The $100 million valuation, while entirely fictional, played into the dramatic flair that has made Antiques Roadshow a cultural phenomenon.
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Audience Reactions: Amused and Confused
The spoof garnered widespread attention, with fans flocking to social media to share their thoughts. Many praised Reynolds’ commitment to the bit, noting how seamlessly he blended his humor with the show’s format. Comments on YouTube and social platforms highlighted the mix of amusement and bewilderment:
- “Classic Ryan being Ryan. The egg is obviously fake, but the humor is priceless!”
- “My grandma thought this was real and called me to say Ryan Reynolds is a thief!”
- “I wish the movie was as fun as this sketch. Genius marketing!”
While some fans were initially unsure if the segment was scripted, most appreciated the clever way Reynolds used Antiques Roadshow to promote Red Notice. Even die-hard fans of the show, known for its serious tone, couldn’t help but laugh at the unexpected collaboration.
A Marketing Masterpiece
Reynolds’ Antiques Roadshow appearance was a highlight of the marketing campaign for Red Notice. The Netflix film, which stars Reynolds, Dwayne Johnson, and Gal Gadot, revolves around a high-stakes heist involving Cleopatra’s legendary eggs. The Antiques Roadshow segment mirrored the film’s comedic and adventurous tone, making it a perfect promotional tie-in.
The stunt was also a testament to Reynolds’ creative approach to marketing. Known for his out-of-the-box ideas—like his humorous Aviation Gin ads and his ownership of Wrexham AFC—Reynolds has consistently blurred the lines between entertainment and promotion. His ability to engage audiences through humor and authenticity has become a hallmark of his brand.
Why It Worked
The success of the Antiques Roadshow cameo lay in its unpredictability. Combining a globally recognized actor with a beloved TV show created a moment that felt fresh and entertaining. Reynolds’ commitment to staying in character added depth to the gag, while the $100 million valuation provided the perfect punchline.
Moreover, the segment appealed to both fans of Antiques Roadshow and viewers of Red Notice. For the former, it was a humorous parody of the show’s dramatic appraisals; for the latter, it was an extension of the film’s humor and plot. The crossover highlighted Reynolds’ skill in crafting content that resonates with diverse audiences.
Legacy of the Cleopatra Egg
While Red Notice received mixed reviews, the Cleopatra egg stunt on Antiques Roadshow remains a standout moment in the film’s promotional history. It demonstrated the power of creative marketing and reinforced Reynolds’ reputation as a comedic genius. Fans continue to revisit the segment, praising its originality and execution.
The spoof also opened the door for other unconventional collaborations between Hollywood and television, showcasing how humor and creativity can elevate promotional content. By taking risks and embracing the unexpected, Reynolds set a new standard for how movies can be marketed in an increasingly saturated entertainment landscape.
Ryan Reynolds’ Antiques Roadshow appearance with the $100 million “Cleopatra egg” was a masterclass in blending comedy, marketing, and storytelling. The elaborate gag captured the essence of Red Notice while entertaining audiences across different platforms. It was a moment that reminded fans why Reynolds is one of Hollywood’s most beloved stars—not just for his acting, but for his ability to make everything he touches more entertaining.
In the end, the Cleopatra egg may have been a prop, but the laughs and attention it garnered were priceless. As fans continue to revisit the segment, it stands as a shining example of how creativity and humor can turn even the most ordinary settings into unforgettable moments.
