Actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have grown their Wrexham empire by taking over a brewery as part of their football club ownership, BBC reported this week.
The Hollywood stars took over Wrexham football club in February 2021, as part of a deal worth £2 million.
Now, Reynolds and McElhenney have announced their co-ownership of Wrexham Lager, which sponsors the football club.
Established in 1882, the Welsh brewer is now co-owned by Reynolds, McElhenney, and the Roberts family, who have owned and operated the business since 2011.
The pair announced the venture in a YouTube video, in which they used telegraph keys with subtitles to deliver the news.
Reynolds notes that Wrexham Lager has brewed beer since 1882, to which McElhenney adds, “Which is why we’re using 1882 technology.”
‘Doing Wonders’
Speaking about the takeover, the actors said that they had learned a lot, noting, “The connection between club and community, the intricacies of the offside rule, and the occasional need for beer – especially after finance meetings.”
They added, “Wrexham Lager has a 140-year-old recipe and storied history, and we’re excited to help write its next chapter.”
James Wright, the CEO of Wrexham Lager Beer Co. Ltd, said that the brand had “great heritage” and it was once “enjoyed across the world.”
Wright added, “So, to have Rob and Ryan onboard as we embark on international expansion is huge for us.
“They have been doing wonders for the town of Wrexham and strongly share our passion for once again seeing Wrexham Lager enjoyed in all the far-flung corners of the globe.”
Wrexham AFC
The actors’ takeover of Wrexham AFC in 2021 and subsequent involvement in the club, as documented on the Disney+ series Welcome to Wrexham, raised the profile of both the club and the town.
Since the stars of Deadpool and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia took over, Wrexham AFC has moved from the National League – the fifth tier of football – back into the Football League, following a 15-year absence.
Wrexham AFC now stands third in League One.
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