Ryan Reynolds Reveals Heartfelt Story of Rob McElhenney’s Unseen Support During Deadpool 3 Production Chaos!

The production of Deadpool & Wolverine, released in 2024, marked a significant milestone in cinematic history. Earning a staggering $1.15 billion globally, it became the highest-grossing R-rated movie ever. However, behind the film’s massive success was a whirlwind of pressure and stress, particularly for Ryan Reynolds, who not only starred as Deadpool but also served as the film’s producer and co-writer. As expectations soared, Reynolds found himself shouldering immense stress, but he wasn’t alone. His longtime friend and collaborator, Rob McElhenney, stepped in with support during some of the toughest moments.

Reynolds Faces Immense Pressure

The stakes were high for Deadpool & Wolverine, as it was a major crossover within the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU), bringing together fan-favorite characters and blending them into a unique cinematic experience. As both a key actor and the creative force behind the film, Reynolds felt the pressure of balancing the film’s artistic vision with the expectation of Marvel fans and studio executives. In an interview with Variety, Reynolds humorously personified “Expectation” as “the most well-written villain in cinema history,” underlining the weight of the demands placed upon him during production.

The challenges Reynolds faced were likely multi-dimensional: creative decisions, a hefty budget, and the responsibility of satisfying both loyal fans and the larger MCU framework. The intense scrutiny and tight deadlines often characteristic of major blockbuster productions added to the stress he endured.

Rob McElhenney: A Steadying Presence

Amid this whirlwind of stress, Reynolds was not without support. His close friend, Rob McElhenney—best known for his role in It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia and for co-owning Wrexham AFC with Reynolds—played an invaluable role in helping him navigate the pressures of the film’s production. The duo’s friendship, documented in the Disney+ series Welcome to Wrexham, runs deep, and McElhenney’s willingness to step into the Deadpool & Wolverine set reflected the strength of their bond.

McElhenney filmed a cameo as a TVA soldier, requiring him to fly to London for a brief but significant appearance. While McElhenney’s role was ultimately cut during editing—due to the sequence not fitting within the final narrative—his presence on set was a source of immense comfort for Reynolds. “When I see Rob, my heart-rate slows and my nervous system stops yelling at me,” Reynolds shared, highlighting how McElhenney’s mere presence helped ease the stress of the situation.

The Cut Cameo and Continued Gratitude

Although McElhenney’s cameo was removed from the final cut, Reynolds’ appreciation for his friend’s efforts remained unwavering. Speaking to The Hollywood Reporter and Deadline, Reynolds explained that the decision to cut the sequence wasn’t made lightly. “It wasn’t working the way we’d originally constructed it,” he said, though he expressed regret, adding that he felt “mortified” to remove McElhenney’s contribution. Reynolds hoped that the cameo would find a place in the film’s digital extras, as a small token of thanks for his friend’s involvement.

This moment of camaraderie, even amid professional setbacks, reinforced the strength of their friendship. “I’m grateful my friend was there with me on that set,” Reynolds reflected in an Instagram post. “He’s covered and cared for me in ways I can’t fully comprehend,” he added, showing a depth of gratitude for McElhenney’s emotional and logistical support during a challenging time.

Professional Support Beyond the Set

Their relationship extends beyond the set of Deadpool & Wolverine to their shared business ventures, including co-owning Wrexham AFC. This partnership, which has seen the two friends take on the challenge of reviving a historic football club, likely added a layer of emotional and professional support during Reynolds’ busiest periods. The two have proven to be much more than friends—they are partners in both business and creative endeavors, with Reynolds even suggesting that McElhenney could play a future role in the MCU as Hydra Bob, based on the trust and ongoing support between them.

A Deeply Personal and Professional Bond

Reynolds’ acknowledgment of McElhenney’s role in his life is not just about a cameo in a movie—it’s about the foundation of their friendship, which has been tested and strengthened over the years. From shared business ventures to emotional support on set, McElhenney’s unwavering presence has been a lifeline for Reynolds, especially during the most stressful moments of Deadpool & Wolverine’s production.

In the end, while Deadpool & Wolverine was a massive success, Reynolds’ journey through its making was shaped by more than just creative pressures—it was defined by the friendship and support of someone who has been by his side through thick and thin.