Television
Ryan Reynolds Rekindles Disney Partnership with New Television Deal
2025-03-27

In a significant move, Ryan Reynolds has deepened his professional relationship with Disney by signing a first-look television deal through his production company, Maximum Effort Productions. This agreement positions Reynolds and his creative team to develop and oversee comedy, drama, limited series, and unscripted content for both traditional broadcast networks and streaming platforms under the Disney Entertainment Television umbrella. The pact underscores Reynolds' enduring connection with Disney, which dates back nearly three decades when he starred in the ABC sitcom "Two Guys and a Girl," marking his debut as a leading actor. Over the years, Reynolds has built an impressive portfolio of Disney-associated projects, including the blockbuster "Deadpool & Wolverine" and the romantic comedy "The Proposal." His return to television aligns with his recent promotion of two documentary series for Disney's networks, further solidifying his role within the entertainment conglomerate.

Reynolds' journey with Disney began in earnest 27 years ago with the premiere of "Two Guys and a Girl." The show not only launched his career but also established him as a versatile performer capable of handling both comedic and dramatic roles. Shortly after this breakout performance, he appeared in Disney's telefilm "Tourist Trap." Although the studios responsible for these early works were once part of separate media entities, they are now unified under the Disney banner. This consolidation has allowed Reynolds to revisit familiar territory while expanding into new creative ventures. At a Disney upfront presentation last year, Reynolds highlighted two upcoming documentary series produced by Maximum Effort, showcasing his commitment to innovative storytelling across various formats.

Karey Burke, President of 20th Television, expressed excitement about welcoming Reynolds back to the fold, noting that his unique blend of creativity and industry insight makes him an invaluable collaborator. According to Burke, Reynolds' ability to resonate with audiences and tap into popular culture sets him apart from other talents in the industry. This sentiment was echoed by Reynolds himself, who acknowledged Disney's pivotal role in shaping his career trajectory. From his early days on "Two Guys and a Girl" to headlining blockbusters like "Deadpool," every major milestone in his career has been closely linked to Disney properties. With this new agreement, Reynolds aims to build upon his existing successes while exploring fresh opportunities in the ever-evolving world of television.

This marks the inaugural major television venture for Maximum Effort, which has previously focused on feature film collaborations with Paramount Pictures. While it remains unclear whether Reynolds will take on acting roles in the projects developed under this deal, such involvement is often a possibility in similar producing agreements. If realized, this would represent his first substantial television appearance since his time on "Two Guys and a Girl." In his remarks about the partnership, Reynolds thanked key figures at Disney for their trust and support, humorously referencing Mary Poppins in his enthusiasm for joining the Disney family.

Beyond his work with Disney, Reynolds continues to make headlines in other aspects of his career. Most recently, he starred in "Deadpool & Wolverine," which set records as the highest-grossing R-rated film in history. However, off-screen matters have also captured public attention, as Reynolds and his wife, actress Blake Lively, are currently involved in a high-profile legal matter with co-star and director Justin Baldoni. Despite these developments, Reynolds' collaboration with Disney exemplifies his ongoing impact on the entertainment landscape. Represented by WME and Sloane Offer Weber and Dern, Reynolds and Maximum Effort remain poised to thrive under the Disney umbrella, promising exciting projects for audiences worldwide.

More Stories
see more