Hollywood celebrities Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney completed their takeover of Wrexham AFC more than five years ago. The "Rob and Ryan effect" is a term used to describe how what began as a "crazy idea" has become a worldwide phenomenon. Beyond the Red Dragons' consecutive promotions that led them to the 2026 EFL Championship, however, there is a more complex explanation for why these two celebrities have grown so fiercely devoted to their adopted Welsh homeland.
You can tell that their passion for Wales isn't merely a publicity gimmick if you've watched Welcome to Wrexham or followed their journey. This is what Rob and Ryan find most admirable about the Red Dragon's homeland
1.Recilience of the Community
Ryan Reynolds once said he admired Welsh people because they have the heart of a poet and the fist of a fighter. Both he and Rob often talk about how tough and determined Wrexham's working-class community is, saying that's why they felt drawn to the town. For Rob, it's really personal. He grew up in a working-class area of Philadelphia and immediately saw how similar it was to Wrexham. In both places, the local sports team is more than just a game; it's a huge part of the community.
2. A Beautiful Story 167 Years in the Making
Reynolds often says Wrexham has one of the most beautiful stories on Earth. They don't see themselves as typical owners, but more like caretakers of a 167-year-old club. The fans' fearless devotion really got to them, especially how they stuck around even when the team was struggling for decades.
3. The Language and Culture
The two haven't just thrown money at a stadium; they've really put effort into Welsh identity. * The Language: They've both truly tried to learn and push the Welsh language, often saying things like Cymru am byth (Wales Forever) and Diolch (Thank you) when talking to the press all over the world. The Anthem: Rob McElhenney even called Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau one of the prettiest national anthems. National Pride: In 2025, they were even seen celebrating the National Eisteddfod coming to Wrexham, showing how much they care about Welsh culture.
4. Breathtaking Landscapes and Hidden Gems
Even though the Racecourse Ground is like their church, the guys truly love the Welsh scenery, calling it simply breathtaking. Their being there has made Wrexham a jumping-off point for tourism in North Wales. People who come for the football are now sticking around to check out the Pontcysyllte Aqueduct, Chirk Castle, and the wild beauty of the valleys nearby.
5. A Payback That Can't Be Measured
The town often thanks them for the £1bn boost to the local economy, but Rob and Ryan say it's the other way around. They think the emotional return they've gotten from Wales—all the passion, pride, and new ways of seeing things—is something you just can't put a number on. As Ryan recently said during the 2025/26 season, What this town has given us is so much more than anything we could ever give it.
Planning your own pilgrimage to the home of the Red Dragons?
At Celticos, we specialize in authentic, responsible tours of North Wales that take you beyond the stadium and deep into the heart of Welsh culture.
