The Turning Point That Changed Everything for Ryan Reynolds: Discover How One Moment Turned Him into a Box-Office Legend

Ryan Reynolds wasn’t always the Hollywood powerhouse we know today. Before headlining billion-dollar franchises, his career was filled with rom-coms, quirky comedies, and a series of almost-but-not-quite hits. But one defining moment flipped the script, launching him from a charming comedic actor into a box-office legend. That moment? The birth of Deadpool.

The Lead-Up: A Career in Transition

Reynolds’ early career was marked by roles in TV sitcoms like Two Guys and a Girl, followed by notable performances in romantic comedies such as The Proposal (2009) and action-comedy Van Wilder: Party Liaison (2002). While his charm and comedic timing won him fans, Reynolds struggled to break out as a global megastar.

In 2011, his turn as the lead in Green Lantern was supposed to be his big superhero breakthrough. Unfortunately, the film’s failure at the box office cast doubts on whether Reynolds could carry a franchise. While he remained a beloved figure, it seemed like Hollywood wasn’t sure what to do with him.

The Game-Changer: Deadpool

The tides began to shift with a series of bold moves in the early 2010s. Behind the scenes, Reynolds was quietly campaigning for a Deadpool movie—a passion project he believed could unlock his true potential. The character, Wade Wilson, who Reynolds briefly portrayed in 2009’s X-Men Origins: Wolverine, had a cult following, but fans were disappointed with the studio’s creative liberties.

Leaked test footage in 2014, featuring Reynolds fully embodying the wisecracking, self-aware anti-hero Deadpool, became a viral sensation. Fans were clamoring for the real Deadpool, and Hollywood couldn’t ignore the noise. Fox greenlit the project, but with a relatively modest budget for a superhero film, making Deadpool somewhat of a gamble.

Deadpool’s Unlikely Success

When Deadpool hit theaters in 2016, it didn’t just succeed—it obliterated expectations. The film grossed over $780 million worldwide and set a record for an R-rated movie. Reynolds’ performance was universally praised, blending action with razor-sharp wit, irreverence, and heart. His passion for the role and the film’s unexpected success cemented his place in Hollywood’s A-list, proving he was more than a comedic actor—he was a box-office force.

After Deadpool: Becoming a Hollywood Powerhouse

Deadpool didn’t just reignite Reynolds’ career—it redefined it. He went on to headline Deadpool 2, which grossed over $785 million, further solidifying his standing. But Reynolds’ influence extended beyond his acting. He became a savvy entrepreneur, acquiring stakes in companies like Aviation American Gin and Mint Mobile, all while taking creative control over his film projects.

The success of Deadpool opened doors for other major roles, such as Michael Bay’s 6 Underground (2019) and Free Guy (2021), both of which showcased his star power and ability to carry blockbuster action-comedies. Reynolds’ unique blend of humor, self-deprecation, and action chops resonated with global audiences, propelling him into the upper echelon of Hollywood stardom.

The Defining Moment That Changed Everything

Looking back, it’s clear that Deadpool was the turning point that redefined Ryan Reynolds’ career. The combination of his relentless passion, belief in the character, and the serendipity of that viral test footage transformed him from a talented actor into a box-office legend.

Today, Ryan Reynolds is not just one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood—he’s a cultural phenomenon, admired for his wit, charisma, and the fearless way he took control of his career. Deadpool was the key to unlocking his true potential, and there’s no doubt that Reynolds’ star will continue to rise for years to come.