Ryan Reynolds Opens Up About Wrexham's Extraordinary Transformation and Community Pride

Hollywood actor and club co-chairman Ryan Reynolds has reflected on the remarkable journey of Wrexham, helping turn the historic Welsh club into a modern football phenomenon alongside fellow actor Rob McElhenney since their takeover in 2021.

Founded in 1864, Wrexham holds the title of the oldest football club in Wales and the third oldest professional club globally. Under their stewardship, the club achieved three successive promotions, narrowly missing a spot in the Premier League after finishing just two points shy of the end-of-season play-offs last year.

Speaking at LIVEX in Abu Dhabi on Tuesday during a panel titled “Growth with soul, culture tourism and the cities people come back to,” Reynolds emphasized that their success was driven by storytelling rather than football expertise. Their hit documentary series, Welcome to Wrexham, has garnered eleven Primetime Emmy Awards and two Critics' Choice Television Awards over four seasons, bringing global attention to the players, coaches, and loyal supporters.

Reynolds detailed how the football club helped restore identity and economic vitality to a town once devastated by the loss of traditional industries like oil, steel, and coal. With tourism revenue now approaching £200 million annually, the resurgence has revitalized the community, fostering a deep and contagious sense of local pride.

Sharing poignant anecdotes from production, Reynolds highlighted the trust the community placed in them—from humorous encounters involving a local vicar to deeply touching moments like honoring the memory of Bailey, a young Wrexham fan. Ultimately, Reynolds attributes the club's flourishing global following and renewed local spirit to listening, organic growth, and a willingness to embrace the unknown.