Ryan Reynolds has become synonymous with Deadpool—the wisecracking, irreverent anti-hero who has taken the superhero genre by storm. However, for Reynolds, there’s more to life than donning the red suit. In a candid conversation with Andrew Garfield for Variety’s “Actors on Actors” series, Reynolds opened up about why it took six years to bring Deadpool & Wolverine to life. The reason? A deeply personal commitment to his family.
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Prioritizing Fatherhood
At 48, Reynolds shares four children with his wife, actress Blake Lively: daughters James (9), Inez (7), Betty (5), and son Olin, born in 2023. The actor explained that his decision to delay production on Deadpool & Wolverine was driven by a desire to be present in his children’s lives.
“I have four kids, and I don’t ever want to be an absentee [dad],” Reynolds shared. “I kind of die inside when I see their faces, and they do a sports thing or something, and I missed it.”
Reynolds emphasized that the Deadpool franchise requires an all-consuming level of dedication, which would have meant sacrificing precious moments with his family. “It swallows my whole life,” he admitted, explaining why the six-year gap between Deadpool 2 and its follow-up was necessary for him to balance his professional and personal responsibilities.
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A New Approach to Filmmaking
During his discussion with Garfield, Reynolds reflected on how his perspective on filmmaking has evolved. While he’s experienced tremendous success in blockbuster roles, he’s also faced moments of creative frustration.
“When you’re cast in a big movie, you know the stakes, but you often have no input into what happens,” he explained. “It can make you feel like you’re a monkey rattling a cage.”
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Reynolds’ frustrations with being sidelined in earlier projects led him to take a more active role in the Deadpool films, serving as a producer and co-writer for the second and third installments.
“If I’m going to bomb, I want to be the architect of my own demise,” he said. “I don’t want to be a passenger on someone else’s nosediving jet plane.”
This hands-on approach has been key to the franchise’s success, allowing Reynolds to focus on character-driven storytelling rather than relying solely on spectacle. “Let’s stop spending on special effects and let’s spend on character,” he advocated, underscoring his belief that great stories come from strong writing and relatable characters.
The Long-Awaited Return
Deadpool & Wolverine was one of the most anticipated films of the summer when it premiered in July. The movie not only brought Reynolds back as Deadpool but also reunited audiences with beloved superhero characters, including Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine, Wesley Snipes’ Blade, Jennifer Garner’s Elektra, and Chris Evans’ Johnny Storm. The film even introduced Channing Tatum as Gambit, a long-awaited addition to the Marvel Universe.
Reynolds explained that his goal for Deadpool & Wolverine was to create a “complete experience,” rather than using the film as a setup for future projects. “I made the movie to stand on its own,” he said. “It’s not a commercial for another one.”
The film’s success speaks for itself, grossing over $1 billion at the global box office. Fans and critics alike praised its balance of humor, heart, and nostalgia, solidifying Reynolds’ place as a creative force in Hollywood.
A Supportive Cast and Crew
The production of Deadpool & Wolverine was marked by camaraderie and collaboration. Jennifer Garner, who reprised her role as Elektra, shared her gratitude for being included in the film. “I didn’t know that Elektra and I needed an ending, but Shawn [Levy] and Ryan did,” Garner wrote on Instagram. “They are gifted in many ways, but seeing and elevating people around them is at the top of the list.”
Garner’s praise extended to her co-stars, including Hugh Jackman, Dafne Keen, Wesley Snipes, and Channing Tatum. “Shooting the fight was so fun, being there all together – truly like a dream,” she said. “I’m proud of my friends and grateful to be up there with them.”
Balancing Stardom and Family
For Reynolds, the success of Deadpool & Wolverine is a testament to his ability to balance his career with his role as a father. Both he and Lively have been intentional about creating a stable home life for their children, often alternating work schedules to ensure that one parent is always present.
“We don’t work at the same time,” Reynolds previously told People. “If she’s doing a project, I’m home. If I’m doing a project, she’s home.”
This commitment to family has shaped Reynolds’ choices as an actor and producer, allowing him to prioritize what matters most.
Looking Ahead
While Reynolds remains uncertain about the future of the Deadpool franchise, he’s content with the work he’s done so far. “I don’t know what the future of Deadpool will be,” he admitted. “But I’m happy with what we’ve created. It’s a labor of love, and I’m proud of it.”
As for what’s next, Reynolds continues to juggle multiple projects while maintaining his focus on family. His ability to navigate the demands of Hollywood with authenticity and humor has endeared him to fans and peers alike, proving that even superheroes need to take time for what truly matters.
Ryan Reynolds’ journey to bring Deadpool & Wolverine to life is a testament to his dedication as both an artist and a father. By prioritizing family and taking control of his creative vision, Reynolds has not only elevated the Deadpool franchise but also set an example for how to balance success and personal fulfillment.
With Deadpool & Wolverine breaking box office records and capturing hearts, Reynolds has solidified his legacy as a Hollywood powerhouse who knows how to deliver—both on screen and at home.
