Ryan Reynolds has established himself as one of the most bankable stars in Hollywood over the past two decades. What’s remarkable about his career trajectory is how it can be traced through the awards and accolades he’s received over the years. From his early recognition at the Teen Choice Awards for his work in teen sitcoms to his iconic portrayal of Deadpool that resonated hugely with audiences, Reynolds’s evolution as an actor is reflected in the shifting nature of the awards he’s been nominated for and won. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key stages in his career and the accolades associated with each phase.
Early Recognition (Teen Choice Awards)
Reynolds got his start in the late 1990s with roles in popular teen sitcoms of the era like “Fifteen” and “The Adventures of Sabrina.” This early phase of playing comedic characters aimed at younger audiences is reflected in his Teen Choice Award nominations. In 1999, he received his first Teen Choice nod for Choice TV Actor – Comedy for his role as Michael “Berg” Bergen on the ABC sitcom “Two Guys and a Girl.” A few years later, he earned another Teen Choice nomination in the same category for his guest role as Dr. John “J.D.” Dorian on the hit medical comedy “Scrubs” in 2002 and 2003. While he didn’t win either award, these nominations marked the beginning of industry recognition for Reynolds’s comedic talents in roles targeted at teenage audiences.
Shifting Gears (Action and Comedy)
As Reynolds took on more mature roles blending action and comedy in the early 2000s, the types of awards he was nominated for began to shift as well. In 2002, he earned his first MTV Movie Award nomination for Breakthrough Male Performance for his role as Van Wilder in “National Lampoon’s Van Wilder.” Two years later, he picked up another MTV Movie Award nod for Best Fight Scene for “Blade: Trinity,” showcasing his ability to hold his own in action films alongside big names like Wesley Snipes. These nominations signaled Reynolds’s move toward more adult comedic roles that incorporated elements of action and suspense.
Critical Acclaim (Buried and Golden Globe)
A major turning point in Reynolds’s career came in 2010 with the critically acclaimed psychological thriller “Buried.” In the film, Reynolds delivered an entirely solo performance as a man trapped in a coffin after being buried alive. His raw, emotionally powerful work in such a challenging role earned him widespread critical praise. Reynolds picked up his first major international award nomination, a Goya Award from the Spanish Academy of Cinematic Arts and Sciences for Best Actor.
The same year, he also received his first Golden Globe nomination, which marked a new level of industry recognition. He was nominated in the Best Actor in a Motion Picture – Musical or Comedy category for his performance alongside Sandra Bullock in the romantic comedy hit “The Proposal.” This dual nomination for “Buried” and “The Proposal” highlighted Reynolds’s versatility and growing ability to excel in both dramatic and comedic genres.
Deadpool and Self-deprecating Humor (People’s Choice Awards and Critics’ Choice)
Of course, no discussion of Reynolds’s career accolades would be complete without mentioning his iconic portrayal of the Merc with a Mouth in “Deadpool” (2016) and its sequel. As the titular antihero, Reynolds delivered a hilarious, meta, and self-aware performance that resonated hugely with audiences. Unsurprisingly, “Deadpool” won a slew of awards reflecting its popularity. Reynolds scored multiple People’s Choice Awards, including Favorite Action Movie Actor.
The film also took home the Critics’ Choice Award for Best Comedy, demonstrating approval from professional critics as well as mainstream audiences. Reynolds further embraced the self-deprecating humor around his Deadpool persona at awards shows. At the 2016 MTV Movie Awards, he accepted the “Most Likely to Fake His Own Death to Avoid a Network Upfront” award in character. Deadpool cemented Reynolds’s status as a box office star capable of leading massive franchises.
Business Acumen Recognized (Marconi Awards)
While known primarily for his on-screen work, Reynolds has also demonstrated savvy business skills through various entrepreneurial ventures. In 2020, his co-ownership of Aviation Gin earned recognition at the Marconi Society Radio Awards. Under Reynolds’s involvement, Aviation Gin saw explosive growth and became the top-selling super-premium gin brand in the U.S. This award highlighted Reynolds’s expanding influence and accomplishments beyond acting alone.
Overall Evolution
Looking back on Reynolds’s career through the lens of the awards and accolades he’s received, one can trace the evolution of both his talents and the types of projects he took on. From early nods at the Teen Choice Awards through his Golden Globe nomination and iconic Deadpool role, Reynolds has consistently challenged himself with diverse genres and proven his abilities in both comedy and drama. His business success has further showcased his entrepreneurial skills. At each stage, the awards reflect Reynolds’s explosive growth into one of the most talented and popular stars working today with no signs of slowing down. Through his accolades, one can track the remarkable journey of Reynolds’s career over the past 20+ years.
