Ryan Reynolds Receives Freedom of the City Award from Vancouver

Actor and philanthropist Ryan Reynolds has been awarded the Freedom of the City by the Vancouver City Council, a distinction that recognizes his dedication to his hometown. The ceremony took place on October 12, 2023, and was attended by city officials, including Mayor Ken Sim.

In his remarks, Mayor Sim praised Reynolds for his contributions to the community, stating, “Today we celebrated one of Vancouver’s own whose hometown pride has taken our city’s name around the world. Ryan Reynolds isn’t just a movie star; he’s a proud Vancouverite who never forgets where he came from and always finds ways to give back.” The Freedom of the City is the highest honour the city can bestow and has been awarded since 1936.

A Legacy of Philanthropy

Reynolds, known for his role as the anti-hero in the Deadpool franchise, has a long-standing history of charitable work. His philanthropic efforts include supporting organizations such as Covenant House Vancouver and the Greater Vancouver Food Bank. Following the devastating floods in British Columbia in 2021, he and his wife, Blake Lively, made significant donations to the Red Cross of B.C. and encouraged others to contribute as well.

The award not only recognizes Reynolds’ local contributions but also his impact on a national and global scale. He has supported Food Banks Canada during the pandemic and matched donations to aid displaced Ukrainian families. Additionally, his commitment to equity in the entertainment industry is evident through initiatives he co-founded, such as Group Effort Initiative and Creative Ladder, which aim to provide opportunities for under-represented communities.

Honouring a Hometown Hero

Receiving this accolade is particularly meaningful for Reynolds, who expressed his gratitude, stating, “This means the world to me. Vancouver shaped who I am, and I carry it with me in everything I do. To now be part of its history in this way is both humbling and surreal, and I’m deeply grateful to be recognized by the city that gave me my start.”

The Freedom of the City award comes with several privileges, including the opportunity to sign the Book of Freedoms, receive the Freedom Medal, and enjoy a lifetime pass for free access to city parks, pools, rinks, and fitness centres. Past recipients of this honour include renowned figures such as Dr. David Suzuki and businessman Jim Pattison.

Reynolds has also previously been recognized with the Order of B.C. and the Order of Canada, further underscoring his lasting impact both provincially and nationally. For a complete list of past award winners, residents can visit the award’s page on the City of Vancouver’s official website.