Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, Hollywood actors turned football club owners, are receiving praise for their impact on Wrexham, having completed a £2 million takeover in February 2021. Initially facing skepticism about their involvement in football, the duo’s hands-on approach has proven successful, with Wrexham securing promotion to the Football League after a 15-year absence in the 2022-23 season.
The trend of celebrities investing in football clubs is growing, with NFL legend Tom Brady becoming a co-owner at Championship club Birmingham City. Dr. Christina Philippou, a sports finance expert, notes that the commercial benefits of celebrity ownership are significant. Leveraging their status helps sell the club’s story, enhancing commercial interests and, in turn, contributing to on-pitch success.
Dr. Philippou emphasizes the global reach of sports through social media and the influence of celebrities in shaping commercial and broadcasting aspects. The cultural shift toward valuing influencers and big stars is expected to continue, making celebrity ownership a lasting trend.
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Wrexham’s success has been documented in the Disney Plus docuseries ‘Welcome to Wrexham,’ contributing to their growth. However, Dr. Philippou highlights that sustained on-pitch progress is crucial for maintaining high levels of interest. The link between results and general interest, as seen in match-day attendance and social media engagement, plays a pivotal role in attracting sponsors and commercial opportunities.
Looking ahead, Reynolds and McElhenney aim to guide Wrexham to the Premier League. The club is currently in a promising position for back-to-back promotions, sitting fourth in the 2023-24 League Two table after 18 games. Their continued success on the pitch will be crucial for sustaining interest and achieving their long-term goals.
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