Ryan Reynolds Explains Why Deadpool Shouldn’t Ever Become An Avenger Or Member Of The X-Men

After Deadpool & Wolverine brought Ryan Reynolds’ Merc with a Mouth into the Marvel Cinematic Universe, speculation as to when and how the character may reappear reached an all-time high. Recently, Reynolds addressed the character’s future in Marvel and how he could fit into the franchise’s existing teams. Speaking with The Hollywood Reporter, the actor explained that “there are no updates to share just yet, but [he] trust[s] Kevin and [Marvel exec] Lou D’Esposito with [his] life.“

Reynolds continues by describing why he feels Deadpool’s arc doesn’t lend itself to being a part of one of Marvel’s team. He stated that “the character trait I love most about Deadpool is that he’s a fanboy.” Because of “his enthusiasm and longing to be part of a team,” Reynolds views that as “his overarching wish-fullfillment story,” which, while “endearing,” leaves little room for the character to grow if he achieves his goal. As a result, the actor doesn’t “think he should ever be an Avenger or an X-Man,” adding that “if he becomes either, we’re at the end.“

When the interviewer prompted him with “Does that mean the character won’t ever be in an Avengers film?,” Reynolds exclaimed “just the opposite.” He further clarified that “Deadpool works so well appearing with the X-Men and Avengers, but he always needs to stay an outsider.“

While Wade’s “ultimate dream is to be accepted and appreciated,” he struggles with acceptance. This fuels “his coping mechanism of deflecting shame through humor,” which he uses “to pave over his many inadequacies.”

Because of this, Reynolds stated, “If and when he does become an Avenger or X-Man, we’re at the end of his journey.” At the point that the character achieves his desire to be a valued member of a major team, Deadpool loses some of his charm and drive.

It’s important to note that Reynolds clearly expressed interest in Deadpool working with the Avengers, just in a capacity wherein Wade is an ally and not a teammate. This allows the character to retain his overenthusiastic demeanor towards the main heroes as well as his trademark self-deprecating humor. Moreover, Deadpool working alongside the Avengers has the kind of comedic potential a writer like Reynolds would surely want to capitalize on.

Deadpool and Wolverine tied together in Cassandra Nova's base in Deadpool & Wolverine

“I Would Always Want Deadpool And Wolverine To Be Paired”: Ryan Reynolds Addresses Potential Deadpool & Wolverine 2 And Deadpool 4

After Deadpool & Wolverine became a smash hit, everyone wants to see more of Marvel’s new dynamic duo, Deadpool actor Ryan Reynolds included.

Given his take that the end of Wade’s journey would be mainstream acceptance, that conclusion of his arc could later be used as Reynolds’ swan song in the role.Deadpool 2 already went out of its way to explain why Deadpool doesn’t function welll in a team setting through his inability to follow the rules of the X-Men. That being said, the actor has made it clear that he has sequel ideas for Deadpool & Wolverine, so it is more likely we’ll continue to see Wade as the wacky, irreverent outsider of the MCU.

Any Deadpool & Wolverine Sequel Needs To Respect His Arc So Far

Split image of Deadpool & Wolverine and Thor crying holding Deadpool — Image Made By Zoe Miskelly

Reynolds’ Deadpool is one of the most popular characters in superhero films, and a large part of that is due to the unique charm of the movie version of the character. Of course, Deadpool should team up with the Avengers and/or the X-Men. However, this should not be at the expense of the character’s arc. Deadpool & Wolverine already laid the groundwork for such a story with its scene of Thor holding Deadpool playing on a TVA monitor.

Regardless, the Deadpool films have a surprisingly emotional undercurrent, which is a huge factor as to why Reynolds’ portrayal is so endearing to audiences. Any sequel to Deadpool & Wolverine should keep the Merc with the Mouth as an annoying, violent-yet-redeemable outsider, or commit to finishing his story on a high note.

Deadpool and Wolverine Poster Showing Wade Wilson's Swords Showing Hugh Jackman's Reflection

A follow-up to the highly successful Deadpool and Deadpool 2 films starring Ryan Reynolds as the Merc with a Mouth. The third film will be the first in the franchise to be developed under the Marvel Studios banner following Disney’s acquisition of 20th Century Fox.

Release Date: July 26, 2024
Runtime: 127 Minutes
Cast: Ryan Reynolds , Hugh Jackman , Emma Corrin , Morena Baccarin , Rob Delaney , Leslie Uggams , Karan Soni , Matthew Macfadyen , Brianna Hildebrand , Shioli Kutsuna , Stefan Kapicic , Lewis Tan , Randal Reeder , Jennifer Garner , Aaron Stanford , Billy Clements , Ollie Palmer , Chris Hemsworth , Rob McElhenney
Director: Shawn Levy
Studio(s): Marvel , Maximum Effort