UPDATE: In a stunning revelation, actor Ryan Reynolds has confirmed he was responsible for leaking the test footage of the original Deadpool film back in 2014. Speaking to Entertainment Weekly at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Reynolds admitted the leak was “cheating,” but he believed it was necessary to get the film made.
The leaked footage played a crucial role in the creation of the Deadpool trilogy, which has since become a cultural phenomenon. Reynolds explained that at the time, 20th Century Fox was hesitant about producing an R-rated superhero movie, especially featuring a lesser-known character like Deadpool, who had previously flopped on screen.
Reynolds recounted the moment he realized he was the one who leaked the footage, stating, “I’m looking at the guy in the mirror brushing my teeth. And I’m like, ‘Dude, what have you done? This could be punishable by law!’” However, the gamble paid off. Within 24 hours, the studio greenlit the project, spurred on by overwhelming fan interest.
The actor highlighted that the appeal of Deadpool lies in his unconventional character traits, including his fourth wall-breaking humor. “It was kind of new,” Reynolds said, emphasizing how the test footage represented a unique approach to superhero films.
Since the release of the first Deadpool, Reynolds has emerged as a key creative influence in the franchise, which has not only achieved blockbuster success but also sparked a trend toward R-rated superhero films. The character now enjoys a popularity comparable to that of Spider-Man, with speculation about both characters appearing in future Avengers movies.
As Reynolds continues to shape the future of Deadpool, fans are eager to see how his vision unfolds in upcoming projects. This revelation not only sheds light on the behind-the-scenes struggles of bringing Deadpool to life but also serves as a testament to Reynolds’ commitment to the character and his foresight in the evolving landscape of superhero cinema.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as Reynolds and the Deadpool franchise continue to make waves in Hollywood.