Ryan Reynolds' Heartwarming Moment with Daughter James Steals the Show at Thrilling Wrexham AFC Match

Ryan Reynolds Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue

Ryan Reynolds' family is not just passionate about football, but his eldest daughter, James (8), also shares his enthusiasm for Wrexham AFC games. In the latest episode of Welcome to Wrexham season 2, which aired on Tuesday, October 10, Reynolds (46) took James to Wales to watch the thrilling fourth-round FA Cup match between Wrexham and Sheffield United. (Her attendance at the game was previously covered in our reports from January.)

The actor, who is a co-owner of the team alongside Rob McElhenney, described the atmosphere at the Wrexham AFC racecourse (stadium) as truly unparalleled.

Humphrey Ker, the executive director of Wrexham AFC, highlighted the immense significance of the FA Cup during the episode. He emphasized that it is the oldest trophy in football and commands immense respect in both England and Wales.

The football competition holds significant importance for football enthusiasts, with all teams participating irrespective of their league affiliation. Sheffield's presence in the Premier League intensified the excitement of their match against Wrexham, described as a classic "David v. Goliath" encounter, according to Reynolds.

Reynolds attended the game accompanied by his daughter James, close friend and director Shawn Levy, and renowned author of The Fault in Our Stars, John Green. Meanwhile, McElhenney observed the Wrexham game from his hometown of Philadelphia.

Ryan Reynolds, co-owner of Wrexham Football Club, has made his presence felt as he arrives for the Vanarama National League game between Wrexham and Boreham Wood at Racecourse Ground in Wrexham, Wales, on April 22, 2023. The image captures the arrival of Ryan Reynolds, who is known not only for his involvement in the world of film but also for his ownership stake in the football club. The photograph, taken by Matthew Ashton - AMA/Getty Images, showcases the intersection between celebrity and sports in this exciting event.

Reynolds, who seemed anxious prior to the game, shared that he approached Green, a sponsor of the AFC Wimbledon football team, prior to acquiring Wrexham.

Green playfully remarked, "You're in for a fantastic journey." Reynolds nodded, chiming in, "You also imparted some wise words to me recently. You said, 'Among all the trivial matters in life, football holds the greatest significance.' I've shamelessly borrowed that message countless times."

During the game, Wrexham faced an instant setback with Sheffield scoring an early goal and taking a 1-0 lead. Nonetheless, they swiftly mounted a comeback in the second half.

After each goal Wrexham scored, Reynolds celebrated alongside his companions, briefly embracing and interacting with his daughter. (During her appearance on camera, James' face was blurred.)

Despite the match resulting in a 3-3 draw, Reynolds was overwhelmed with emotions as he addressed the team in the locker room.

"I'm quite emotional at the moment because every person present witnessed something unprecedented. It touched them deeply, and they are taking away an unforgettable experience – even my daughter," he expressed. "What you accomplished tonight was truly extraordinary, and we felt the immense passion in your hearts."

Because of the tie, Wrexham had to face Sheffield a second time. They lost 3 to 1, but fans were still cheering for their efforts.

New episodes of Welcome to Wrexham premiere Tuesdays on FX.

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