Are Ryan Reynolds' Kids Tired of Hearing About Wrexham?

Ryan Reynolds, co-owner of Wrexham AFC, has revealed that his children often feel "frustrated" when he is stopped by fans to discuss the football club. Despite their annoyance, Reynolds embraces the attention, highlighting the club's significant transformation since he and Rob McElhenney's involvement, which has seen Wrexham rise from struggling in the lower leagues to becoming a £350 million club with ambitions for the Premier League.

Last updated: 30 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

As Wrexham AFC continues its impressive ascent through the football leagues, Ryan Reynolds has shared insights about the impact of his celebrity status on family life. His children, while proud of his accomplishments, have expressed frustration at the frequent interruptions from fans wanting to chat about the club. This scenario illustrates the intertwining of celebrity culture with grassroots football, particularly as Wrexham aims for promotion to the Premier League.

Key takeaways

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney co-own Wrexham AFC, which has seen significant success since their takeover.
The club is now valued at £350 million and is pushing for promotion to the Premier League.
Reynolds' children often feel frustrated when fans stop him to discuss Wrexham.
The club's community focus is central to their vision for future development.
Wrexham aims to enhance local arts and entrepreneurship alongside football success.

Timeline: how we got here

The journey of Wrexham AFC under Reynolds and McElhenney has been remarkable, marked by key events:

2008: Wrexham AFC is relegated from the Football League.
2011: Supporters take over the club to prevent its closure.
February 2021: Reynolds and McElhenney purchase Wrexham AFC.
2021-2023: The club earns three consecutive promotions, reaching the EFL Championship.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Recently, Reynolds candidly discussed his family's experiences as he navigates life as a celebrity football club owner. He underscored the challenges of balancing public interest with private family moments, reflecting on how his children view his celebrity status.

What was already established

Reynolds and McElhenney's investment in Wrexham has been transformative for the club, which was struggling prior to their involvement. Their story has been documented in the critically acclaimed Disney+ series "Welcome to Wrexham," which has garnered multiple awards, including 10 Emmys.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

The resurgence of Wrexham AFC has revitalised local interest in football, and the club's success has brought economic benefits to the area. Increased attendance and tourism related to match days contribute positively to the local economy, while the club's community initiatives aim to further engage residents.

Businesses and jobs

The club's growth has implications for local businesses, potentially leading to increased foot traffic and spending in the area. Additionally, plans to expand the stadium and enhance local arts initiatives may create jobs and foster economic development.

Policy and regulation

As Wrexham continues to rise, local councils may need to consider policies that support the club's growth, including infrastructure improvements and community engagement strategies. The club's plans for expansion may also require collaboration with local authorities to ensure sustainable development.

Numbers that matter

£350 million: Current estimated value of Wrexham AFC.
3: Consecutive promotions achieved since Reynolds and McElhenney's takeover.
10: Number of Emmy Awards won by the docuseries "Welcome to Wrexham."
2008: Year Wrexham was relegated from the Football League.
4: Number of children Reynolds has, who often express frustration over fan interactions.

Definitions and jargon buster

EFL Championship: The second tier of professional football in England.
Docuseries: A documentary series that follows a particular subject over multiple episodes.
Kop stand: A type of terrace or stand in a football stadium, typically associated with vocal fan support.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

In the immediate future, Wrexham AFC's focus will be on maintaining momentum in the league and continuing to engage with the local community. Fans can expect updates on upcoming matches and club events.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Looking ahead, developments regarding the expansion of the stadium and new community initiatives will be central to the club's strategy. Potential partnerships with local universities and businesses may emerge to promote arts and entrepreneurship.

Signals to watch

Upcoming match results and league standings.
Announcements regarding stadium expansion plans.
Community engagement activities and partnerships.

Practical guidance

Do

Support local businesses on match days to boost the economy.
Engage with club initiatives aimed at community development.
Follow Wrexham’s social media for updates on matches and events.

Don’t

Neglect the importance of community involvement in the club’s success.
Overlook the significance of football in local culture.
Assume celebrity ownership guarantees success without community support.

Checklist

Stay updated on match schedules and results.
Participate in local events promoted by the club.
Explore opportunities for local investment in community projects.
Support initiatives that enhance the arts in Wrexham.
Engage with fellow fans to strengthen community ties.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Wrexham AFC's growth is promising, there are uncertainties regarding the long-term sustainability of the club's success. The potential for fluctuating performance in the league and the impact of economic conditions on fan engagement and support pose risks. Additionally, the reliance on celebrity ownership might not guarantee continued success without a solid community foundation.

Bottom line

Wrexham AFC's transformation under Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney illustrates the powerful intersection of celebrity influence and community spirit in football. As the club strives for Premier League status, its focus remains on fostering local engagement and economic development, making it a pivotal player in Wrexham's future.

FAQs

How has Wrexham AFC changed since Reynolds and McElhenney took over?

Since their takeover, Wrexham AFC has experienced three consecutive promotions and is now valued at £350 million, reflecting significant growth and community engagement.

What are Reynolds' views on his role as a co-owner?

Ryan Reynolds sees himself as a "Wrexham lifer," deeply invested in the club's success and its role within the community.

What future plans do Reynolds and McElhenney have for Wrexham?

The duo aims to enhance the club's facilities, including expanding the stadium, while also focusing on community initiatives in arts and entrepreneurship.