Ryan Reynolds Delivers Heartfelt Message as Wrexham Reaches Historic Milestone
To commemorate the fifth anniversary of his successful acquisition of Wrexham, co-owner Ryan Reynolds created a touching video compilation celebrating the club's most memorable achievements throughout the past five years.
On February 9, 2021, the renowned actor, together with Rob McElhenney, acquired Wales' most historic football club for approximately $2.5 million (£2 million). The Red Dragons, who were struggling in the National League during that period, had no idea of the remarkable success that awaited them.
Wrexham achieved three consecutive promotions, earning their return to the EFL Championship for the 2025–26 campaign - their first appearance at this level in 43 years. Reynolds remained alongside the Red Dragons throughout their incredible journey up the English football hierarchy, making his social media homage to the squad, the community, and the supporters particularly meaningful.
"Five years," Reynolds posted on X. "Feels like we're just getting started."
The compilation features everything from title celebration scenes to new player acquisitions to unique moments between Reynolds and McElhenney, alongside the team and Wrexham residents.
Reynolds Praises Wrexham As the 'Most Beautiful Town on Earth'
Reynolds Praises Wrexham As the 'Most Beautiful Town on Earth'
To mark the fifth anniversary milestone, Reynolds and McElhenney spoke with The Athletic to reflect on their journey into football ownership, which fundamentally celebrates the Wrexham community.
"You might dislike me, you might dislike Rob," he stated. "But you cannot dislike that town. I'm not sure how anyone could manage that. How could you possibly dislike Wrexham? It's the most beautiful place on earth.
"I view the club as the vibrant, pulsing heart of the community. Essentially, Wrexham's gathering place. Or sanctuary. One of those, certainly. There's an actual church, naturally! They serve similar purposes, bringing people together.
"Individuals with completely different beliefs pass through those (stadium) entrance gates, and they unite, donning identical colored jerseys and chanting the same, colorful songs. And they share a magnificent experience together, despite whatever life circumstances might otherwise divide them. That's incredibly powerful."
Beyond the enchantment in North Wales, the team has expanded its influence well beyond Wrexham through the Emmy-winning documentary series, Welcome to Wrexham. The Red Dragons now boast supporters worldwide who tune in regularly to witness whether the Welsh club will achieve the seemingly impossible and secure Premier League promotion.
McElhenney Addresses Phil Parkinson's Future at Wrexham
McElhenney Addresses Phil Parkinson's Future at Wrexham
Another consistent element in Wrexham's fairytale ascent is head coach Phil Parkinson. The English manager accepted the position in 2021, stepping down three tiers to the National League, and has subsequently guided the Red Dragons to England's second division.
"I'm not sure I possess adequate words to completely express how crucial Phil has been to Wrexham's narrative and achievements. He mentioned to me early in our discussions, 'One thing I'm certain of is that you'll dismiss me eventually,'" McElhenney shared with The Athletic.
"He explained that every football manager understands they'll eventually be let go. I responded, 'Alright, that's reasonable, and I understand that's part of the profession.' However, Ryan and I discuss this constantly, and I simply cannot envision a situation where Phil Parkinson gets dismissed. It makes no logical sense. He has been the designer, the architect of this transformation.
"From our viewpoint, he has lifetime job security. Unless he discovers another position he wishes to pursue, he remains our coach. He's our manager. He's our leader."
This public endorsement follows criticism Parkinson received this season following a sluggish Championship start. Wrexham required four matches to claim their initial league win, then needed another seven games to earn three points at their home ground.
However, Parkinson eventually found his rhythm with the team, and the Red Dragons currently occupy sixth place in the standings, well-positioned for the Championship playoff competition.