Hollywood star Ryan Reynolds awarded Vancouver’s highest honour in private ceremony

VANCOUVER — The City of Vancouver has bestowed its top honour on one of its highest-profile Hollywood stars, actor Ryan Reynolds.

A statement from the city says Reynolds was recognized for his philanthropic and cultural achievements with the Freedom of the City award during a private ceremony Thursday.

Reynolds, a Vancouver native, is among Hollywood’s most-recognized actors, achieving stardom through film roles including the Marvel Comics’ superhero character in the “Deadpool” series.

The city says Reynolds has “shown an unwavering commitment to giving back” locally, supporting charities such as Covenant House Vancouver and the Greater Vancouver Food Bank, as well as donating money after devastating floods in B.C. in 2021.

Reynolds has already received both the Order of British Columbia and the Order of Canada.

The Freedom of the City award is described as an honour granted “in exceptional cases” where an individual has achieved the highest merit through national and international acclaim while also bringing recognition to Vancouver.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Sept. 19, 2025.

The Canadian Press