Ryan Reynolds has risen into one of the most beloved Hollywood actors in the world, featuring in multiple blockbuster movies, most notably Marvel Universe’s Deadpool.
Reynolds is not only among the highest-earning actors in the world, but he is also a savvy entrepreneur and a master of branding who has successfully built a multi-million dollar empire that extends far beyond the silver screen.
Known for his wit, charm, and compelling performances, Reynolds has leveraged his celebrity status to create a diverse portfolio of business ventures that demonstrate his acumen and vision.
Early Career and Breakthrough
Born on October 23, 1976, in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, Ryan Reynolds began his acting career in the early 1990s, landing roles in various television shows, such as “Fifteen” and “The Odyssey.”
However, it wasn’t until his performance in “Van Wilder: Party Liaison” (2002) that he gained significant recognition. The film showcased not only his comedic talent but also his unique ability to connect with audiences—a quality that would become central to his brand.
Reynolds’ breakthrough came with the role of Deadpool in Marvel’s “Deadpool” (2016), a film that not only broke box office records but also solidified him as a mainstay in Hollywood. The character’s popularity allowed Reynolds to redefine the superhero genre with a blend of humour and action, leading to successful sequels, “Deadpool 2” (2018) and “Deadpool and Wolverine (2024)”.
Reynolds got a $2 million base salary for the first Deadpool, and reportedly received millions in subsequent bonuses. According to Forbes, the actor raked in $21.5 million in 2017.
The actor also starred in several lucrative films on streaming platforms, too. He earned an estimated $48.5 million for starring in Netflix films Six Underground (2019) and Red Notice (2021), according to Forbes. He also received $20 million from Apple TV+ for the holiday film Spirited (2022).
These films catapulted him to international fame and set the stage for his entrepreneurial efforts.
Entering the Business World
While Hollywood fame is lucrative, Reynolds has also amassed millions of dollars by investing in startups and other business ventures. His first major foray into business came in 2018 when he co-founded Aviation American Gin, a craft distillery based in Portland, Oregon.
The brand quickly gained traction, thanks in part to the actor’s engaging marketing campaigns that highlighted the spirit’s quality and authenticity. He brought life to the brand through humorous advertisements, appearing in character as the “Gin Ambassador.”
In August 2020, Reynolds and his partners sold Aviation Gin to Diageo, one of the world’s largest beverage alcohol companies, for an estimated $610 million. This sale didn’t just mark a financial windfall for Reynolds; it also positioned him as a serious player in the spirits industry, showcasing his skill in brand building and promotion.
The actor also has his own production and marketing agency and a telecommunications company.
In 2020, Reynolds and fellow actor, Rob McElhenney bought Welsh soccer team Wrexham AFC for $2.5 million, according to Forbes. Under the ownership of Reynolds and McElhenney, Wrexham AFC won the National League title in April 2023, granting them a promotion to the English Football League, according to Sky Sports.
In June 2023, Reynolds and fellow actor and business partner, Rob McElhenney joined a group of investors backing the Formula One racing team, Alpine, in a deal worth $218 million (200 million euro), according to Formula One. The group, which includes Otro Capital, RedBird Capital Partners, and Reynold’s Maximum Effort, acquired a 24% stake in the team.
Reynolds owns wireless carrier Mint Mobile, which he bought in 2019. Reynolds became the main spokesperson for the company and produced a series of creative ads promoting the carrier on TV and to his millions of social media followers.
In March 2023, T-Mobile entered into a deal to acquire Mint Mobile and its parent company, Ka’ena Corp., for an estimated $1.35 billion, according to Bloomberg.
Reynolds is an investor in Canadian password management software, 1Password. He also serves as the face of the company and stars in its commercials. The company raised $620 million in 2022 and is valued at $6.8 billion.
Reynolds is also an investor in online Canadian wealth management service Wealthsimple. The Toronto-based company raised $750 million in 2021, giving it a valuation of $5 billion.
Philanthropy and Social Impact
Reynolds has also made significant contributions to philanthropic causes. He and his wife, actress Blake Lively, are known for their charitable work, particularly in support of organizations focused on mental health, children, and women’s rights.
In 2020, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, Reynolds donated $1 million to food banks in Canada and the United States, highlighting his dedication to community support during difficult times.
He often uses his platforms to raise awareness for various causes, compelling his followers to contribute and engage in philanthropy as well.
