When you think of Hollywood bromances, a few iconic duos may come to mind – Will Smith and Martin Lawrence, Ben Stiller and Owen Wilson, Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau. But one of the most entertaining and unlikely bromances in recent years belongs to Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman. On the surface, a Canadian actor best known for comedy and an Australian thespian renowned for dramatic roles don’t seem like obvious friends. However, their playful “feud” and genuine support for one another has helped propel both stars to even greater success over the past decade.

The Origins of an Unlikely Friendship

Reynolds and Jackman first crossed paths on the set of 2009’s “X-Men Origins: Wolverine.” Jackman, of course, was reprising his iconic role as Wolverine for the sixth time. Reynolds had a supporting role as Wade Wilson/Deadpool. While the movie itself received mixed reviews, it marked the beginning of a friendship that would last for years to come.

According to Jackman, he was the one who initiated their now-legendary banter. As a friend of Reynolds’ then-girlfriend Scarlett Johansson, Jackman enjoyed giving the newcomer a hard time in between takes. “I started teasing him. I’ve always had this thing with Ryan – we just like taking the mickey out of each other,” Jackman said in an interview. Rather than being offended, Reynolds embraced the playful ribbing and gave as good as he got. A friendship – and faux rivalry – was born.

The “Feud” That Fueled Their Rise

Over the next decade, Reynolds and Jackman’s public personas developed a comedic “feud.” They began pranking and playfully trolling each other on social media and in interviews, taking jabs at everything from their respective superhero roles to their country of origin. Some highlights include:

Jackman sending Reynolds a video of himself doing abs exercises after Reynolds complained about having to get back in shape for Deadpool 2.

Reynolds creating a fake movie trailer for “Wolverine: Leap of Faith” after Jackman’s Broadway show.

The two trading barbs about whether Deadpool or Wolverine would win in a fight.

Jackman crashing Reynolds’ interview at the premiere of Detective Pikachu in a hilarious Wolverine costume.

Far from being actual enemies, their “feud” was always in good fun. But it kept both actors’ names constantly circulating in entertainment headlines, fueling interest in their projects. It also showcased their incredible comedic chemistry and ability to laugh at themselves. As Jackman said, “It’s just this never-ending thing between us which is really fun. But I love the guy.”

Supporting Each Other’s Careers Behind the Scenes

For all their public ribbing, Reynolds and Jackman have proven time and again that their friendship runs deep. Behind closed doors, they’ve been fiercely supportive of one another’s careers.

Jackman has spoken at length about his admiration for Reynolds’ comedic talents, which he feels were underutilized early in Reynolds’ career. He’s credited Reynolds for helping him loosen up and find his funnier side. Meanwhile, Reynolds has been Jackman’s biggest champion when it comes to reprising Wolverine. He lobbied hard to get Jackman a cameo in Deadpool 2 and has publicly said he wants Jackman to return for Deadpool 3.

Their support stretches beyond just kind words too. Jackman executive produced Reynolds’ hit film The Adam Project. And Reynolds returned the favor by serving as an executive producer on Jackman’s upcoming film The Son. Clearly their bromance isn’t just for show – they want to see each other succeed at the highest level.

The Secret to Their Lasting Friendship

So what is it that’s allowed Reynolds and Jackman’s friendship to not only endure for over a decade, but also help propel their careers even higher? Director Shawn Levy, who worked with both actors on The Adam Project, credits Jackman for recognizing the potential in their dynamic early on.

“Hugh is very discerning about who he wants to connect with. He saw in Ryan someone who was deeply likable, talented, and fun to be around,” Levy said. Beyond that, both men share a genuine kindness and sense of humor. “They enjoy the back-and-forth, but it never comes from a place of malice. They clearly respect each other.”

Fellow director David Leitch, who directed Reynolds in Deadpool 2, agrees. “At their core, they’re just really good guys who like making each other laugh. That’s a rare quality in Hollywood and it’s what makes their friendship so endearing to fans.”

Even as their star power and opportunities have grown exponentially, Reynolds and Jackman have stayed remarkably grounded. They prioritize family, donate generously to charity, and avoid taking themselves too seriously – as evidenced by their long-running “feud.” It’s that balance of talent, humility and mischievous fun that has allowed their dynamic duo act to entertain audiences for years to come.

In Conclusion

In an industry where egos often clash and genuine friendships are fleeting, Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman have built one of the most unlikely but endearing Hollywood bromances in recent memory. Their playful rivalry, comedic chemistry and genuine care for one another has helped propel both actors to the very top of their profession.

More than just good publicity, their bond shows the positive power that can come from lifting each other up, making time for friendship, and bringing more laughter to this world. Over a decade since their origins on the set of X-Men, Reynolds and Jackman continue to prove that together, they’re twice as funny – and their dynamic friendship is one that will endure for many movies to come.