As Wrexham prepared to face Portsmouth, reporting noted that Ryan Reynolds’ Hollywood-driven transformation of Wrexham—documented and globally marketed—helped push rival owners to reconsider their own stance on behind-the-scenes access and media strategy. Michael Eisner, Portsmouth’s owner, reportedly shifted perspectives about cameras and storytelling value as the matchup drew narrative-rich attention. The “Disney derby” moniker underscores how Wrexham’s media-savvy approach can reshape norms across English football clubs, particularly around brand-building and fan engagement. The episode highlights Reynolds’ broader impact on league culture beyond match results, influencing how clubs think about content, partnerships, and global reach.
Ryan Reynolds’ Wrexham influence prompts Portsmouth rethink ahead of ‘Disney derby’
