13 Interesting Facts About Ryan Reynolds You Probably Didn’t Know
Ryan Reynolds is one of the most popular actors in Hollywood today. Known for his good looks, quick wit, and memorable film roles, Reynolds has been entertaining audiences for decades. But there’s more to this Canadian charmer than meets the eye. Here are 12 fascinating facts even diehard fans may not know about Ryan Reynolds.
1. He grew up in Vancouver, Canada
Reynolds was born on October 23, 1976, in Vancouver, British Columbia. He grew up in the Kitsilano neighborhood and attended Kitsilano Secondary School. As a young child, Reynolds dreamed of becoming an actor after watching his father perform in community theater.
2. He got his start on a Canadian teen drama
One of Reynolds’ earliest acting roles was on the Canadian teen soap opera Hillside (also known by its alternate title Fifteen) from 1991-1993. On the show, Reynolds played Billy Simpson, one of the main characters. The experience helped launch his career.
3. He briefly attended college
Though acting was his passion, Reynolds briefly studied at Kwantlen Polytechnic University in Vancouver. He dropped out after just a few months to pursue acting full-time. Reynolds has no regrets about not finishing college.
4. He stole a bus as a teen
Here’s one of the more amusing Ryan Reynolds facts: at age 13, Reynolds and some friends stole a bus and went joyriding. The police caught them and returned Reynolds home to his father…who then allowed the cops to arrest his son! Reynolds says it taught him a valuable lesson.
5. Reynolds married Canadian singer Alanis Morissette
From 2002 to 2007, Reynolds was married to fellow Canadian Alanis Morissette. The two first met at Drew Barrymore’s birthday party in 2002 and quickly hit it off. After getting engaged in 2004, they married in a quiet ceremony. The marriage ended amicably in 2007.
6. He used to be roommates with Michael J. Fox
One of Reynolds’ famous former roommates is fellow Canadian actor Michael J. Fox. Reynolds moved to Los Angeles in the late 1990s. With not much money at first, he stayed in Fox’s pool house for some time as he auditioned for roles. The two actors remain good friends.
7. He owns an interest in Aviation Gin
Reynolds is not just the face of Aviation Gin – he’s also a part owner, along with other investors. He acquired a stake in the popular spirit brand in 2018. Reynolds often uses his signature humor to promote the gin in ads and commercials.
8. He purchased a stake in a Welsh soccer team
In 2020, Reynolds and fellow actor Rob McElhenney became co-owners of the Welsh soccer club Wrexham AFC. Though new to the sport, Reynolds said he was drawn to the underdog team and hopes to turn its fortunes around.
9. Reynolds has struggled with anxiety
Though known for being funny and easygoing, Reynolds has said he struggled with anxiety attacks and symptoms of depression from a young age. At times it was so bad he had difficulty even leaving the house. He manages it today with help from therapy and medication.
10. He trained for months to run the New York City Marathon
Never one to back down from a challenge, Reynolds trained for months to run the New York City Marathon in 2008. He finished the race in a little over 3.5 hours. His father had recently been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, which inspired Reynolds’ marathon effort.
11. He purchased the unicorn from Blade Runner as a gift
As a movie memorabilia collector, one of Reynolds’ prized possessions is the original unicorn origami figure from the film Blade Runner. He won it at auction as a birthday present for wife Blake Lively one year.
12. Reynolds and Blake Lively have an unusual first date story
Reynolds met his now-wife Blake Lively in 2010 on the set of Green Lantern. As the story goes, their first date was a double date – with their mutual friend and her boyfriend! The group had pizza and talked until closing time that night.
13. Reynolds acknowledges ongoing mental health struggles
When asked about maintaining his mental health at a recent gala, Ryan Reynolds admitted he is a “work in progress” and still struggles to keep his mind from “spinning out of control” at times. Speaking exclusively to Page Six, Reynolds revealed he has rituals and methods that help ground him, but managing his mental health is an ongoing process. The actor has been open about having anxiety since childhood and says his public persona differs from his inner self. Reynolds’ comments at the Bring Change to Mind gala highlight how even celebrities deal with mental health issues. By acknowledging his struggles, Reynolds helps break down the stigma.
Whether starring in blockbusters or running marathons, Ryan Reynolds constantly impresses with his work ethic, humor, and dedication to causes close to his heart. Next time you see Reynolds on the big screen, remember the goofball teen who once stole a bus – and recognize how far talent and determination can take someone. Reynolds’ career is sure to continue entertaining and astonishing us for years to come.
