Review of Welcome to Wrexham Season 2: Episodes 13-14

Welcome to Wrexham has successfully experimented with its well-established TV format over the past few weeks, combining lower-tier soccer action, unexpected emotional moments, historical elements, and dashes of humor. However, as the show approaches its climax, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney return to the fundamentals, even if it means exploring their own personal lives.

In the early episodes of the series, both men shared how their shared love for sports, despite being relatively new to soccer, played a pivotal role in their relationships with their parents. This experience is likely relatable to many men and boys, as their favorite sport often creates an unbreakable bond with their fathers, even if their overall relationship might have been lacking in other ways.

As expected, the same is true for Reynolds in this week's "Family Business" as he delves into those memories with the assistance of his mother, Tammy Reynolds. Together, they each offer their unique perspectives on the actor's upbringing, resulting in a deeply relatable and heartfelt segment. Additionally, McElhenney has the opportunity to share his own background, adding to the personal nature of the segment.

In the 1980s, actor McElhenney's unconventional family situation was only known by dedicated fans of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia. Raised by his biological mother Helena and Mary, McElhenney's upbringing reflects society's progress in accepting non-traditional parenting and LGBTQ relationships.

Currently at the height of their careers, both actors, especially the more renowned Mr. Deadpool, still treasure their parents' presence in their lives. Reynolds often invites his mother to his premieres. However, Reynolds is saddened by his father's passing in 2015 and wishes he could witness the incredible accomplishments the two friends have achieved for the people of Wrexham, just as his father James instilled a love for sports in him. This heartfelt sentiment truly signifies the beauty of their journey.

Aside from the owners, "Big" Ollie Palmer also shares a personal anecdote about his experience when his father came out of the closet during a time that was less accepting. This discussion brings McElhenney and the striker closer as they both reflect on their own experiences and how it has influenced their aspirations as parents for their own children.

The Wrexham star Elliot Lee and his dad, former England international Rob Lee, are featured in other stories. Their experiences alongside players like David Beckham highlight the challenges of following in one's parents' footsteps. Even back office employees receive attention in Welcome to Wrexham, creating an emotionally touching episode that is sure to evoke tears in more than one viewer.

The upcoming football season is crucial for Wrexham, and "Worst Case Scenario" highlights the high stakes involved in achieving promotion while also shedding light on the club's financial situation. The emotional intensity of the episode is amplified by Irish winger Anthony Forde's battle with a brain tumor, as well as the unwavering support he receives from both the club and the fans. Despite the challenges faced, Forde's triumphant return to the field and his ability to score the opening goal in his comeback match seems almost like a fairytale, a testament to the immense effort and investment that Reynolds and McElhenney have poured into the team every step of the way.

In these Welcome to Wrexham episodes, Charlie Day, the Luigi actor, makes a special cameo. However, amidst all the happenings, his appearance seems to be just a minor detail. The true story lies in what this goal must signify for Forde. Welcome to Wrexham sometimes feels like playing FIFA or EA Sports FC 24 career mode, except that the individuals involved are undeniably real.

Welcome to Wrexham, where the presence of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, alongside Humphrey Ker and Harvey, highlights the substantial investment that these two Hollywood actors have made. While their financial contribution is undoubtedly significant, the real allure lies in the opportunity that Wrexham AFC provides for individuals to be a part of something truly special. If the Red Dragons ever make it to the Premier League, it will be a football tale unlike any other.

This Wrexham doubleheader really pulls viewers heartstrings as the teams reaches the final stage of the season at the top of the table.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z netizen, I have mixed feelings about the latest episodes of Welcome to Wrexham. On the one hand, I appreciate the show's willingness to explore personal stories and delve into the emotional side of sports. The segments with Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney discussing their relationships with their parents were particularly touching and relatable. I also found the story of Wrexham star Elliot Lee and his father, former England international Rob Lee, to be inspiring.

On the other hand, I feel like the show is starting to lose some of its focus on the actual soccer. The past few episodes have spent a lot of time on the owners' personal lives and not enough time on the team's progress on the field. I understand that the personal stories are important, but I would like to see more of the on-field action.

Overall, I think Welcome to Wrexham is still a good show, but I hope it can find a better balance between the personal stories and the soccer in the remaining episodes.