Ryan Reynolds & Rob McElhenney Told to Drop the Niceness at Wrexham Games

Wrexham Director Warns Celebrity Owners to Toughen Up on Matchdays

It’s not every day that you see two Hollywood stars getting scolded for being too polite. But welcome to the world of British football — where even A-list charm doesn’t exempt you from the rougher edges of the sport.

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, the now globally recognizable owners of Wrexham AFC, found themselves on the receiving end of a rather “horrible” warning from the club’s director Shaun Harvey during the first home match of the 2024-25 season. The message? Stop being so nice to the opposition.

“Just Be Horrible” — A Crash Course in Football Etiquette

Wrexham AFC v Charlton Athletic FC – Sky Bet League One

Speaking to the Daily Star, Reynolds laughed as he recalled the moment:
“At this season’s first home match, Shaun Harvey came running over to Rob and I to tell us to stop wishing the away team ‘good luck’,” he said. “I was there, ‘Oh, just be horrible.’ That’s football – oh yeah, I get it now.”

It’s a moment that perfectly captures the culture clash between Hollywood hospitality and the deeply tribal nature of English football. At a Premier League gala or awards night, wishing your opponents well is good manners. At the Racecourse Ground, it’s almost treason.

Reynolds, known for his dry humour and self-awareness, seemed to take it all in stride. But the message was clear: this isn’t Tinseltown. This is football. And in football, especially in a town like Wrexham, matchday spirit means passion — not pleasantries.

From Outsiders to Insiders

Ryan Reynolds Rob McElhenney

Since buying Wrexham in 2020, Reynolds and McElhenney have done more than just inject cash into the club. They’ve immersed themselves in the culture, the community, and the chaos of lower-league football. What started as a quirky documentary project has become a full-blown love affair with a city and a fanbase that wears its heart on its sleeve.

And make no mistake — the fans love them back. But that doesn’t mean they’re immune to the rules of the game, both written and unwritten. In fact, being owners might mean they’re held to a higher standard.

It’s no secret that English football crowds thrive on intensity. Home support isn’t just about waving scarves and singing songs — it’s about creating an atmosphere that rattles the opposition and lifts your own side. A warm handshake with the away manager? Not exactly part of the plan.

Wrexham’s Big Leap Into the Championship

Behind the banter and the headlines, there’s a serious project unfolding at Wrexham. After back-to-back promotions, the Red Dragons are now preparing to compete in the Championship — the second tier of English football — for the first time in over four decades.

It’s a massive leap in both quality and pressure. The Championship is known for its relentless schedule, unpredictable results, and ruthless competitiveness. The club’s transformation from National League also-rans to serious contenders has been nothing short of remarkable — but now comes the real test.

Reynolds and McElhenney are reportedly ready to back manager Phil Parkinson in the summer transfer window, with plans to bring in experienced players who can handle the physical and mental demands of Championship football. Sources close to the club suggest a busy few months ahead, with recruitment focused on depth, leadership, and a bit of flair.

Hollywood Hearts, Football Minds

Rob McElhenney Ryan Reynolds Wrexham 2025

If anyone doubted the seriousness of Reynolds and McElhenney’s commitment, they’re not doubting anymore. The duo has been present at key matches, emotionally invested in every result, and consistently vocal in their support for the players and fans.

But perhaps the greatest thing they’ve done is embrace learning. They’re not pretending to be football experts. They’re not hiding their mistakes. Whether it’s getting schooled on matchday etiquette or misreading a tactical moment, they own it — and they adjust.

This willingness to grow within the game, rather than impose their star status on it, is what’s won over skeptics. And the club, under their stewardship, is thriving.

What’s Next for Wrexham?

The summer will be telling. Promotion to the Championship opens up new financial opportunities, more TV coverage, and a much bigger spotlight — but it also brings higher expectations. Mid-table survival won’t feel like enough. Fans are dreaming bigger now.

With Reynolds and McElhenney still leading the way, Wrexham have the backing, the belief, and the narrative. But they’ll also need results. And that means navigating one of the toughest leagues in the world with smart decisions both on and off the pitch.

One thing’s certain — there won’t be any more good-luck wishes for the away team. That lesson’s been learned.

More Than Just a Football Club

The Wrexham story isn’t just about celebrity owners or dramatic goals. It’s about what happens when two people fall in love with a place, respect its traditions, and commit to building something lasting. It’s about growth, humility, and — yes — learning when to be “horrible.”

Because as Ryan Reynolds now knows: in football, being nice might win hearts, but being ruthless wins games.