Tatum Thanks Reynolds for Gambit Cameo in 'Deadpool & Wolverine'
Channing Tatum has publicly expressed his gratitude to Ryan Reynolds for his support in bringing Gambit to life, even if it wasn't in the standalone film he'd envisioned.
On Monday, 29 July, Tatum took to Instagram to share a heartwarming message for Reynolds. Alongside photos from their appearances at San Diego Comic-Con in 2015 and 2024, Tatum reflected on their friendship, highlighting how Reynolds had been a steadfast ally in his journey.
"These pictures are almost 10 years apart to the day," wrote Tatum, who wore the same Gambit shirt in both images. "I sat in the audience when Ryan showed his first peek of *Deadpool
1 to the world and I think I ran backstage right after and found him and I think I just hugged him and was like holy s--- you did it man. Itâs perfect."
Tatum, who was working on a *Gambit
solo film for four years before it was scrapped following Disney's acquisition of Fox in 2019, explained how Reynolds had been instrumental in keeping the character alive. "I didnât know him really at all back then. But since then I can say that there is almost no one that has had my back in this industry more than Ryan," he shared.
"I thought I had lost Gambit forever. But he fought for me and Gambit. I will owe him probably forever. Cause Iâm not sure how I could ever do something that would be equal to what this has meant to me. I love ya buddy," Tatum continued.
He also extended his appreciation to the film's director, Shawn Levy, praising his work on *Deadpool & Wolverine*. "Truly such a brilliant creator on every single level," he wrote. "All things happen for a reason. Iâm so grateful to be in this movie. Itâs a masterpiece in my opinion. And just pure bad ass joy. I was literally screaming in the theatre. LFG!! #deadpoolandwolverine."
Reynolds took to his Instagram Stories to respond to Tatum's message, acknowledging his friend's talent and dedication to the character. "Imagine having a front row seat to this guy. Heâs not only a once in a generation talent but he's a genuinely good man. I know what it feels like to will a character into existence," Reynolds wrote.
"Chan did that. And then put the most vivid version of that character on the screen like he was born to play this one guy," he continued. "Weâve shared two San Diego Comic-Cons. Two of the best days in my life happened while @channingtatum wore this shirt. Coincidence or conspiracy?" Reynolds jokingly concluded, adding a poll for his followers.
Tatum's emotional post highlights the power of friendship and support within the entertainment industry. It also serves as a reminder that sometimes, even when dreams seem lost, persistence and the right connections can bring about unexpected outcomes.
