Ryan Reynolds has further cemented his relationship with Disney through a first-look deal at 20th Television, promoting new content for his production company, Maximum Effort Productions. This agreement allows Reynolds and his team to develop and executive produce a variety of series, ranging from comedies to dramas and unscripted series, across Disney’s platforms. The new partnership builds upon Reynolds’ history with Disney, where his career milestones are deeply connected.
Reflecting on his journey, Reynolds’ relationship with 20th Television dates back 27 years to the sitcom “Two Guys and a Girl.” Initially airing on ABC, it propelled Reynolds into the spotlight, setting the stage for future roles. Soon after, he was featured in “Tourist Trap,” an ABC telefilm under the Wonderful World of Disney banner. It’s an ironic twist of fate that Disney, a company encompassing these diverse entertainment avenues, now serves as a major collaborator in Reynolds’ illustrious career, especially noted with his portrayal of Deadpool. The character, originating from “X-Men Origins: Wolverine,” subsequently led to a standalone film series, exemplifying Reynolds’ growing influence within the Disney universe.
At a recent Disney upfront presentation, Reynolds nostalgically mentioned “Two Guys and a Girl” while promoting new Maximum Effort docuseries. In collaboration with FX’s “Welcome to Wrexham” and NatGeo’s “Underdogs,” produced by Reynolds and his team, these series underscore his continued partnership with Disney. Karey Burke, President of 20th Television, expressed delight at welcoming Reynolds back, emphasizing his legendary creativity and profound cultural impact. Such a homecoming reflects both his past achievements and future potential with Maximum Effort now aligned with 20th Television.
This new agreement marks Maximum Effort’s first significant television deal, following previous first-look feature film pacts at Paramount Pictures. While it remains uncertain whether Reynolds will take on acting roles in these series, such involvement aligns with possibilities often explored in first-look producing contracts. Should he do so, it would signify his first major TV role since his days on “Two Guys and a Girl.”
Reynolds expressed heartfelt gratitude, remarking, “Disney and 20th Century Studios have helped co-author my career in a not insignificant way. From Two Guys to Deadpool and Welcome to Wrexham, every pivot point in my career has found its start at the Magic Kingdom.” Such sentiments underscore the depth of his professional ties and personal affection towards Disney, acknowledging key figures such as Dana Walden and Eric Schrier for their unwavering support. Reynolds’ playful nod to Disney’s influence is exemplified in his witty tribute to Mary Poppins when discussing the new deal.
Reynolds’ recent achievement with “Deadpool & Wolverine,” which set a record as the highest-grossing R-rated film, demonstrates his substantial box office appeal. Despite personal challenges involving a legal dispute with actress Blake Lively and director Justin Baldoni, Reynolds remains notably dedicated to his craft.
As a proud Canadian and co-founder of Maximum Effort, Ryan Reynolds is represented by WME and Sloane Offer Weber and Dern. With this new chapter at 20th Television, audiences can expect more captivating stories under his creative vision. The collaboration hints at endless possibilities, promising to enrich the television landscape and reaffirming Disney’s integral role in his ever-evolving career.
