Ryan Reynolds humbled after receiving 'highest honour' from City of Vancouver
Hometown boy Ryan Reynolds was the recipient of a prestigious honour from the City of Vancouver today.
In a release, the City of Vancouver announced that Reynolds is the recipient of the “highest honour” that City Council can bestow, conferring upon him the Freedom of the City, “in recognition of his extraordinary contributions as a Vancouverite, philanthropist, and cultural ambassador.”
He was awarded the honour in a private ceremony in Council Chambers on Thursday morning. Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim had some kind words to share about “Kitsilano’s own.”
“Today we celebrated one of Vancouver’s own whose hometown pride has taken our city’s name around the world,” said Sim.
“Ryan Reynolds isn’t just a movie star, he’s a proud Vancouverite who never forgets where he came from and always finds ways to give back. Awarding him the Freedom of the City is our way of saying a heartfelt ‘thank you’ for everything he’s done for our community.”
“From Kits Pool to Deadpool,” a statement from the City said.
“Reynolds is the hometown kid who made it big.”
The City of Vancouver applauds Reynolds for giving back to Vancouver.
“Together with his wife, Blake Lively, he has generously supported Covenant House Vancouver and the Greater Vancouver Food Bank. Following the devastating 2021 flooding in British Columbia, Reynolds and Lively donated to the Red Cross of B.C. and used their platform to encourage others to do the same. Their commitment to Vancouver has provided shelter and support for youth who are homeless, at risk, or trafficked, and made a tangible difference for families across the region,” the statement continued.
“This means the world to me,” Reynolds said of the honour.
“Vancouver shaped who I am, and I carry it with me in everything I do. To now be part of its history in this way is both humbling and surreal, and I’m deeply grateful to be recognized by the city that gave me my start.”
According to the City of Vancouver, the Freedom of the City award is only granted in exceptional cases “to individuals of the highest merit who have gained national and international acclaim in the arts, business, or philanthropy and who have brought recognition to Vancouver through their achievements.”
It’s clear Reynolds loves Vancouver, aside from the time he considered buying the Senators instead of the Canucks.
The City of Vancouver has a list of other recipients.
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