The Movie Ryan Reynolds Was Blackmailed Into Making: “That Was the Way It Was Floated to Me”

Ryan Reynolds today stands as one of Hollywood’s most bankable and recognizable stars, carving out a unique niche with his trademark blend of action, comedy, and self-aware humor. His recent string of films—where he essentially plays sardonic, wisecracking versions of himself—have been massive box office hits, cementing his status as a leading man who can sell a movie. Yet, beneath the surface of his success lies a lesser-known chapter of career compromises and industry maneuvering, particularly surrounding his journey to bring Deadpool to the big screen.

It’s almost inconceivable now to imagine a world where a Deadpool movie wasn’t a guaranteed blockbuster. The irreverent antihero has become synonymous with Reynolds’ career, starring in three wildly successful films that together have grossed nearly $3 billion worldwide and redefined the R-rated superhero genre. But the path to that triumphant success was anything but smooth.

Reynolds had nurtured the idea of a standalone Deadpool movie quietly since 2004. However, by 2009, when 20th Century Fox decided to feature Wade Wilson (Deadpool’s real name) in X-Men Origins: Wolverine, the actor’s dreams were suddenly at risk. Fox planned to introduce the character in this ensemble film first, which put Reynolds in a difficult position. According to Reynolds, the studio essentially gave him an ultimatum: play Deadpool in Origins—a movie that, as it turned out, butchered the character—or risk losing the role entirely, with Fox ready to cast someone else if he refused.

When questioned by the Los Angeles Times about why he agreed to take on the part in Origins, Reynolds was candid: “That was sort of the way it was floated to me.” He acknowledged the opaque nature of the negotiations: “But you never know what’s being discussed behind closed doors.” It was clear to him that the choice was simple—either he played Deadpool in the flawed Origins film or lose his shot at the character forever.

Signing onto a project out of fear is rarely a good career move, and Reynolds himself admitted he felt pressured: “I was under the impression that it was ‘either play Deadpool in this iteration or someone else will,’ so, of course, I signed on.” For an actor with a passion project in his sights, it was a compromise he felt compelled to make.

The experience left little to praise. Reynolds has voiced little fondness for X-Men Origins: Wolverine, aside from one silver lining—the chance to meet Hugh Jackman, the iconic Wolverine himself. Still, despite the rough start, Reynolds persevered, and the Deadpool standalone film finally came to life years later, launching a franchise that redefined his career.

Now, with Reynolds wielding considerable power in Hollywood and a portfolio of hits where his signature wit and charm dominate, it’s easy to forget the rocky beginnings and the studio politics that almost derailed his dream. His story is a reminder that even the biggest stars often face tough choices and industry hurdles on their way to success—and sometimes, blackmail is just part of the game.