Ryan Reynolds on Putting Fatherhood First: “You Don’t Get That Time Back”

In an industry where fame often demands a relentless schedule, Ryan Reynolds has taken a different path, choosing to prioritize his role as a father above all else. The Hollywood star, known for his quick wit and beloved roles in films like Deadpool and Free Guy, has made it clear that family comes first, even if it means stepping back from his career.

In a recent interview with PEOPLE, Reynolds opened up about why he’s slowed down his acting career since becoming a dad, emphasizing the importance of being present for his four children, whom he shares with actress Blake Lively. His heartfelt insights shed light on how he’s reshaped his life around fatherhood and the value he places on his family.

A Father’s Commitment: “I Don’t Ever Want to Miss Stuff”

For Reynolds, the decision to prioritize family wasn’t difficult. The thought of missing significant moments in his kids’ lives—competitions, milestones, or even simple day-to-day interactions—was something he couldn’t bear.

“I don’t ever want to be an absentee [dad], and I don’t ever want to miss stuff,” Reynolds told PEOPLE. “I, like, kind of die inside when I see their face and they have a competition or they have a sports thing or something and I missed it.”

This deep-seated desire to be present is a driving force behind the actor’s recent choices. As the father of four children ranging from a 1-year-old to a 9-year-old, Reynolds has made it his mission to ensure he’s there for the moments that matter most.

A Partnership Built on Family Values

Reynolds’ commitment to fatherhood is mirrored by his wife, actress Blake Lively. Together, the couple has made a conscious effort to ensure their children’s needs come first. From the early days of their relationship, they adopted a strategy of alternating work schedules to avoid being away from their kids at the same time.

“For many years, when my wife Blake would shoot a film, I would not shoot a film, and I would be with the kids and vice versa,” Reynolds explained. “We never really worked at the same time. But we were always away. So the kids were away too.”

Now that their children are older and in school, the couple is even more committed to maintaining a stable and consistent routine. “I want my kids to have a pretty normal schedule,” Reynolds said. “Now that they’re in school, they have a somewhat normal schedule. I think it’s totally important for their development, and I really enjoy being a present dad.”

Taking a Sabbatical for Family

In 2021, Reynolds took a bold step in his career, announcing a sabbatical from acting to focus on his family. The decision was widely praised, with fans and peers applauding his dedication to fatherhood. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter, Reynolds reflected on the significance of his choice.

“Perfect time for a little sabbatical from movie making,” he said. “I’m gonna miss every second working with this obscenely gifted group of creators and artists. These days, kindness matters as much as talent. I’ve been lucky to work with folks who are flush with both.”

The actor went on to explain that the time spent with his family was something he couldn’t afford to delay.

“I’m just trying to create a little bit more space for my family and time with them,” Reynolds said. “You know, you don’t really get that time back.”

The Joys of Everyday Life

Reynolds has embraced the day-to-day responsibilities of fatherhood with enthusiasm. From school drop-offs to afternoon pick-ups, he cherishes the opportunity to be a hands-on dad.

“I love taking them to school in the morning, I love picking them up,” he said, highlighting how much he values the simple, routine moments that many parents might take for granted.

The actor’s commitment to living a “normal life” with his kids extends beyond their daily schedules. Whether it’s helping with homework, attending school events, or spending quality time at home, Reynolds is fully engaged in every aspect of his children’s lives.

Balancing Stardom and Parenthood

Despite his sabbatical, Reynolds hasn’t stepped away from Hollywood entirely. He remains active in producing projects through his company Maximum Effort and continues to explore creative endeavors that allow him to maintain a balance between work and family.

This balance is something Reynolds takes seriously, ensuring that his career doesn’t come at the expense of his role as a father. It’s a philosophy that has earned him admiration not only as a star but also as a devoted dad.

A Message for Fellow Parents

Reynolds’ approach to parenting sends an important message about the value of family. In an era where work-life balance can feel elusive, his decision to prioritize his children serves as a powerful reminder of what truly matters.

As he puts it, “Kindness matters as much as talent,” a sentiment that resonates not just in his professional life but also in the way he raises his kids.

Ryan Reynolds has played many memorable roles on screen, but his most meaningful one is undoubtedly that of a father. By choosing to put his family first, he’s setting an example for parents everywhere, showing that success isn’t measured solely by career achievements but by the relationships we nurture and the memories we create.

In Hollywood and beyond, Reynolds continues to inspire—not just as an actor, but as a husband, father, and role model for a balanced, fulfilling life.