Ryan Reynolds Receives Order of Canada Honor and Vows to 'Use My Powers for Good'

Mar. 15, 2025

Ryan Reynolds in Los Angeles on Nov. 14, 2024.Photo:Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty

Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty

Ryan Reynolds' Canadian citizenship just leveled up.

On Wednesday, Dec. 18, Governor General of Canada Mary Simon announced the list of 88 newappointees to the Order of Canada, which this year includes theDeadpool & Wolverineactor and Vancouver native, who currently resides in New York.

“Ryan Reynolds has captivated audiences worldwide, notably writing, producing and starring in the widely successfulDeadpoolfilms,” reads an official release. “Off-screen, he supports Canadian causes includingWater First Education,Covenant House VancouverandSickKids Foundation, and co-founded initiatives to increase opportunities for under-represented groups.”

“His far-reaching philanthropy continues to strengthen communities nationwide,” the statement continued of Reynolds, 48.

“I’m so grateful to be a part of the ever-evolving Canadian story. Even more grateful to my third parent: the communities across the country who have supported and shaped me. As well as all the people across Canada who do the work of helping people each and every day without recognition or pats on the back. I’m asking the Governor General if I can break my officer’s medal into thousands of little pieces to share,” he continued.

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The Order of Canada is the country’s highest citizenship distinction and, according to the governor general’swebsite, “honors people who make extraordinary contributions to the nation.”

“The contributions of these trailblazers are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and made a difference to this country,” the description adds. “Their grit and passion inspire us, teach us and show us the way forward. They exemplify the Order’s motto: DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM (‘They desire a better country’).”

Earlier in the day, Reynoldsreacted to the award on X, writing in a post about the news, “Canada, you’ve given me more than I could ever repay.”

Ryan Reynolds' post on X about his Order of Canada honor.VancityReynolds/X

VancityReynolds/X

“Thank you for this incredible honor — I promise to use my powers for good … and general whimsy. @GGCanada,” he added.

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Ryan Reynolds in New York City on July 22, 2024.Taylor Hill/WireImage

Taylor Hill/WireImage

He also received theAcademy of Canadian Cinema and Television’s humanitarian award that same year, “for his dedication to philanthropy throughout his career with several generous donations to various charities," per theGovernment of British Columbia’s website.

“There’s a surreal aspect to this that isn’t lost on me at all,” Reynolds told Postmedia, per theVancouver Sun, following the ceremony for the latter honor, quipping, “There is an element to this that feels a little bit like St. Peter at the gate and looking back at your life and watching only highlights, no lowlights, which is kind of nice. I appreciate St. Peter’s editing.”

source: people.com