TORONTO — During the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), Ryan Reynolds shared his thoughts on the rising tensions between Canada and the United States and how these issues have not affected his experiences as a Canadian in Hollywood. Speaking onstage, the “Deadpool” star emphasized the importance of unity during an onstage conversation with chief programming officer Anita Lee, who inquired about Reynolds' perspective on being a Canadian amidst an era characterized by heightened nationalism.
In a response lasting nearly five minutes, Reynolds focused on the Canadian values he continues to uphold, such as conflict resolution, and highlighted his desire to learn from others rather than simply ‘winning’ arguments. He asserted that maintaining collaborative relationships, rather than adopting a combative stance, is essential, especially when engaging with individuals who hold differing viewpoints.
Reynolds, who hails from Vancouver, expressed that he does not feel the need to agree with someone in order to work alongside them. He also criticized the divisive “us vs. them” mentality prevalent in identity politics. Reflecting on his experiences, Reynolds recounted a scenario where he was working with someone who supported the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, emphasizing his own moderate stance. He noted a moment where they exchanged phones to review their social media algorithms, leading to an eye-opening discussion about their different perspectives.
The actor believes that sporting events and movie theaters serve as excellent platforms for individuals with contrasting opinions to connect and find common ground. Reynolds is attending TIFF to promote his latest project, the documentary “John Candy: I Like Me,” which he produced. The film opened the festival on September 4, 2025, with a speech from Prime Minister Mark Carney, who received a standing ovation from the audience.
During the event, Anita Lee humorously referenced a “Captain Canada competition” between Reynolds and Carney from the previous night, prompting Reynolds to respond with his signature wit. He remarked, “It’s not a fair fight, because one day he will no longer be prime minister,” highlighting the light-hearted nature of their rivalry.
This conversation at TIFF reflects Reynolds' commitment to embodying Canadian values in his work and interactions, even while navigating the complexities of cultural and political differences in a city like Los Angeles. His remarks align with a broader discourse on the importance of unity and understanding in times of division, resonating with audiences as they engage with the festival's content and programming.
