Ryan Reynolds envisions Cary Grant as a classic Hollywood Deadpool

Imagine a Deadpool with the charm and sophistication of classic Hollywood. That’s the intriguing scenario Ryan Reynolds imagined when asked which vintage film star he’d cast as the iconic anti-hero he's portrayed in three movies, including the eagerly anticipated Deadpool & Wolverine.

Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman are set to return as the unconventional superhero pair in the third installment of the Deadpool franchise, Deadpool & Wolverine, which is slated to hit theaters on July 26, 2024. Fans are eagerly awaiting this release, and the thought of a classic Hollywood version of Deadpool adds an extra layer of fascination to the anticipation.

In an interview with Turner Classic Movies, Reynolds, ever the charismatic actor, shared his unique take on who would be the ideal classic Hollywood star to don Deadpool’s red suit. "I am in no way comparing myself to him," Reynolds remarked. "But I think Cary Grant had a bit of a silver tongue. And I believe Howard Hawks could direct it because the rapid-fire dialogue he excelled at would suit Deadpool perfectly."

Turner Classic Movies has long been a cherished platform for preserving the magic of old film classics. Known for its dedication to keeping the golden era of Hollywood alive, TCM provides audiences with a rich archive of timeless movies and insightful interviews, making it the perfect venue for Ryan Reynolds to share his imaginative casting choices and pay homage to legendary stars of the past.

This casting choice is as unexpected as it is intriguing. Cary Grant, renowned for his suave demeanor and sophisticated charm, seems worlds apart from the crass, irreverent Deadpool we've come to know. However, this juxtaposition highlights Reynolds’ creative vision, seeing beyond the obvious and imagining a Deadpool who could deliver witty repartee with the same elegance Grant brought to his roles. Howard Hawks, known for his sharp, fast-paced dialogue, would indeed be a fitting director for such a film, blending humor and action seamlessly.

During the interview, Reynolds also humorously claimed, "I am definitely laying claim to [being] the next Cary Grant, particularly his retired era," This light-hearted self-comparison underscores Reynolds' respect for the legendary actor while maintaining his signature playful tone.

The conversation with Turner Classic Movies host Ben Mankiewicz extended well beyond its scheduled time, delving into various entertaining topics. One such highlight was Reynolds' choice of the iconic screen duo most like him and his wife, Blake Lively. "I would say The Thin Man series," he noted, referring to stars William Powell and Myrna Loy. "Those two gave it to each other, and I love their dynamic and how well they played off each other. Myrna Loy is just one of my all-time favorite crushes, though, so don't tell my wife."

Reynolds' admiration for classic Hollywood is evident in his thoughtful and humorous reflections. His imaginative casting of Cary Grant as Deadpool offers fans a delightful what-if scenario that blends old Hollywood elegance with modern superhero action. This creative merging of eras not only showcases Reynolds’ deep appreciation for film history but also his ability to envision characters in fresh, unexpected ways. This interview has definitely got me, and many Marvel fans alike, more excited for Reynold's upcoming film.