Despite Deadpool's massive success in both solo films and his recent MCU debut, Ryan Reynolds believes the Merc with a Mouth operates best on the sidelines.
- April 26, 2025
AceShowbiz - During his appearance at this year's Time100 Summit, Ryan Reynolds opened up about his vision for Deadpool's future in the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU).
After two blockbuster solo movies and the record-breaking "Deadpool & Wolverine", many fans wondered if Deadpool might eventually team up with the likes of The Avengers or X-Men.
The actor believes that for Deadpool to truly work as a character, his greatest strengths come from what he's lost rather than what he gains. "In order for a character that talks like that to work, you have to take everything away from him," Reynolds said. "His skin, his face, he's covered in scars. He wears the mask out of shame."
While the idea of seeing Deadpool alongside other MCU heroes might sound thrilling, Reynolds argues it would be counterproductive both for the character and the stories told in the MCU.
If Deadpool were to join a superhero team, it would fulfill his deepest wishes, leaving little ground for further character development. "I like that he's isolated. If Deadpool becomes an Avenger or an X-Man, we're at the end. That's his wish fulfillment and you can't give him that,†he emphasized.
Deadpool's charm largely comes from his status as an underdog who audiences root for because of the trials he faces. Whether it's dealing with his personal struggle or the loss of his love Vanessa, each film has explored Wade Wilson's journey of overcoming adversity. If Deadpool were to become part of Earth's Mightiest Heroes, the narrative could lose this underdog appeal.
In addition, keeping Deadpool separate will allow the character to continue breaking the fourth wall and embracing his violent tendencies, something that could be constrained in a more "serious" MCU film, especially those targeting a PG-13 rating.
Despite not joining "Avengers: Doomsday", the actor keeps his creative juice flowing, "I'm writing a little something right now, that's, I don't know, it's an ensemble."
For now, Deadpool's next appearance in the MCU remains unannounced, leaving his fans eagerly awaiting his next mischievous adventure.
Ultimately, by keeping Deadpool as a lone agent within the MCU, Reynolds preserves the creative freedom that made the "Deadpool" trilogy a smash hit, ensuring Wade Wilson's character continues to resonate with audiences in unique and unexpected ways.
