Ryan Reynolds, the Canadian-born Hollywood A-lister, is a household name today. But much like many celebrity success stories, his journey to stardom began with its fair share of struggles and less-than-successful projects. Yet, his sheer determination paid off, bringing to life iconic characters like Deadpool, Van Wilder, Hannibal King, and a host of other memorable comedic, powerful, and serious roles. You can find more about him on vancouveriski.
Early Life
Born on October 23, 1976, in Vancouver, Ryan was the youngest of four brothers in a family of salespeople. His interest in acting sparked early, leading him to participate in school plays during his teenage years. His first big break came at just 12 years old when he landed the role of Billy Simpson in the series “Hillside,” later rebranded as “Fifteen.” This opportunity required a move to Florida. The teen drama aired on Nickelodeon in the United States and YTV in Canada from 1991 to 1993.
After “Fifteen” wrapped, Ryan returned home to Vancouver, where finding the meaningful roles he yearned for proved challenging. He took on various odd jobs, working as a waiter at a yacht club, in a nightclub, and at a grocery store.
His first starring role arrived in 1993 in the film “Ordinary Magic,” where Reynolds played an Indian boy who, after losing his parents, moves to Canada with his aunt. This experience fueled his ambition for more significant roles, leading him to drop out of Kwantlen College in Vancouver to pursue acting full-time.
The Films That Changed Everything
At 19, Ryan moved to Los Angeles with a friend. He was offered the role of Xander in “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” but turned it down, feeling he’d outgrown teenage roles. Instead, he landed a part that would eventually catapult him to fame and pave the way for high-profile film roles. From 1997 to 2003, Reynolds starred as medical student Berg in the sitcom “Two Guys and a Girl and a Pizza Place.”
Working on this show allowed Reynolds to hone his comedic timing and clumsy charm, skills he’d later showcase in the National Lampoon satirical film “Van Wilder.” The movie became a cult classic, opening new doors for Reynolds in various genres.
Becoming a Hollywood Star
His entry into the Hollywood big leagues began with the comedy “The In-Laws,” where he played a supporting role alongside Michael Douglas and Albert Brooks. In 2004, Ryan Reynolds secured a role in “Blade: Trinity,” starring opposite Wesley Snipes and Jessica Biel. He trained rigorously for three months for the part, grew a beard, and gained 25 pounds. He performed all his own stunts on set, as the director couldn’t find suitable lookalike stunt doubles. Reynolds’ portrayal of the character was so convincing that comic book fans raved about his performance, citing his scenes as some of the film’s most memorable moments.
The Anti-Hero Role
Arguably, Ryan Reynolds’ most iconic film role to date is “Deadpool.” This American superhero film, released in 2016, is based on the Marvel Comics character of the same name. In the movie, Wade Wilson transforms into the anti-hero Deadpool, seeking revenge on the man who gave him mutant abilities and a scarred appearance. Critics lauded Reynolds’ performance and the film as a whole. It garnered numerous awards and nominations, including two Critics’ Choice Awards and two Golden Globe nominations.