Ryan Reynolds has opened up about a near-fatal accident from his teenage years that left him hospitalized for nearly a month. The 49-year-old "Deadpool & Wolverine" star recounted the traumatic event during a recent conversation with his Wrexham AFC co-owner, Rob McElhenney. The actor detailed how a drunk driver struck him while he was walking home in his native Vancouver.
At just 18 years old, Reynolds found himself in a precarious situation after a night out. He made the conscious decision not to get behind the wheel, even for a short trip of only a few blocks. However, moments after crossing the street, his life took a dramatic turn for the worse.
The impact of the collision was so severe that it rendered the driver’s vehicle completely inoperable. Reynolds sustained catastrophic injuries, spending four weeks recovering in a hospital bed. He described the extent of the damage in stark terms, noting that the force of the hit broke nearly every bone on the left side of his body.
Despite the gravity of the situation, the actor emphasizes the irony of making a responsible choice only to become the victim of another’s recklessness. He reflected on the wisdom of his decision to avoid drinking and driving, which he considered a firm and positive choice for a young man his age.
This isn't the first time the Hollywood leading man has discussed the lingering effects of the crash. In a prior interview from 2011, Reynolds revealed that he was unconscious for three days following the incident, waking up in a hospital bed with no memory of the collision. He has previously referred to himself as a "rickety, broken mess" in the aftermath of the life-altering event.
The actor also took a moment to express his gratitude to the medical professionals who aided in his recovery. While the physical scars have healed, the memory serves as a stark reminder of how quickly life can change. Reynolds continues to advocate for making safe decisions, even when the outcome is beyond one’s control.
Today, Reynolds balances his blockbuster film career with his ownership stake in the Welsh soccer team. His story remains a powerful testament to resilience and the unpredictable nature of life, underscoring the importance of road safety and the severe consequences of driving under the influence.