Hollywood Stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney Expand Wrexham Portfolio with Brewery Acquisition

Renowned actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have expanded their Wrexham holdings by acquiring a brewery, augmenting their existing ownership of the successful football club. The celebrated duo has secured co-ownership of Wrexham Lager, an entity that currently sponsors Wrexham AFC and is recognized as the oldest British lager brewery still operating. The actors commented, “Wrexham Lager has a 140-year-old recipe and a storied history and we’re excited to help write its next chapter.” They humorously noted that their involvement with football had provided them with significant insights, including: “The connection between club and community, the intricacies of the offside rule and the occasional need for beer — especially after finance meetings.” Wrexham AFC’s performance has significantly improved since Reynolds and McElhenney finalized their £2m takeover in February 2021. The club has transitioned from the National League, which is the fifth tier of football, returning to the Football League following a 15-year hiatus. They achieved promotion from League Two on their initial attempt and are currently positioned third in League One. The latest acquisition was revealed by the club’s owners through a YouTube video in which neither individual spoke. Instead, the two communicated via telegraph keys, humorously suggesting that the 1882 technology rendered them “literally speechless”. Referencing the brewery’s origins, the accompanying caption stated: “We’re now proud co-owners of Wrexham Lager, brewed since 1882, which is why we’re using 1882 technology.” Ryan Reynolds, known for his role as Deadpool, and Rob McElhenney, a producer and star of It’s Always Sunny In Philadelphia, have documented the club’s journey in the Disney+ series Welcome to Wrexham. Additionally, the duo was granted the freedom of the city by Wrexham council in 2022. James Wright, the chief executive of Wrexham Lager Beer Co Ltd, stated that their involvement would be “huge” for the company as it pursues international expansion. He further remarked: “They have been doing wonders for the town of Wrexham and strongly share our passion for once again seeing Wrexham Lager enjoyed in all the far-flung corners of the globe.” The investment originated from Red Dragon Ventures, a joint venture established by Reynolds and McElhenney alongside the New York-based Allyn family. The Roberts family, who have owned and operated the business since 2011, indicated their intention to maintain an active role within the company.