Vancouver Honours Its Star
Actor Ryan Reynolds has been awarded Vancouver’s Freedom of the City, the municipality’s highest civic honour, during a private ceremony on Thursday.
Recognizing Philanthropy and Impact
The city cited Reynolds’ philanthropic work with charities such as Covenant House Vancouver and the Greater Vancouver Food Bank, as well as his donations after the 2021 B.C. floods, as reasons for the award.
Reynolds, who rose to international fame through roles including Marvel’s Deadpool, has previously been recognized with both the Order of British Columbia and the Order of Canada.
Reynolds’ Reaction
“This means the world to me. Vancouver shaped who I am, and I carry it with me in everything I do,” Reynolds said. “To now be part of its history in this way is both humbling and surreal.”
Freedom of the City Award
The award is reserved for “exceptional cases” where recipients achieve national and international acclaim while bringing recognition to Vancouver.