A testament to enduring admiration, Ryan Reynolds has meticulously woven a series of heartfelt John Candy Easter eggs into the fabric of all three Deadpool films. From subtle prop placements to narrative inspirations, these hidden tributes reflect Reynolds’ “lifelong obsession” with the late comedic legend, culminating in his co-produced documentary “John Candy: I Like Me.”
For dedicated fans of classic cinema and the irreverent Deadpool franchise, a fascinating connection has emerged, highlighting star Ryan Reynolds’ profound reverence for the late, great comedian John Candy. More than just a passing appreciation, Reynolds has demonstrated a “lifelong obsession” with Candy, an admiration so deep it has manifested in a series of subtle, yet significant, Easter eggs hidden throughout the Deadpool cinematic universe.
A Lifelong Admiration: Ryan Reynolds’ Enduring Tribute to John Candy
John Candy, who tragically passed away at age 43 in 1994, left an indelible mark on comedy. His ability to blend humor with genuine pathos deeply resonated with a young Ryan Reynolds, a sentiment he has openly shared multiple times. Reynolds has often taken to social media to express his admiration, once writing on Instagram, “He always walked that tightrope between hilarious and heartbreaking. His movies mean so much to me.”
This deep respect extended beyond social media posts. In 2022, Reynolds announced he was producing a documentary about Candy, directed by Colin Hanks, a project that fans eagerly anticipated. The documentary, titled “John Candy: I Like Me,” later premiered on Prime Video on October 10, 2025, further cementing Reynolds’ commitment to preserving Candy’s legacy. He even humorously suggested Candy should appear on the Canadian $20 bill, showcasing his national pride and enduring affection for the fellow Canadian icon.
Unveiling the Subtle Homages in the Deadpool Trilogy
Reynolds’ dedication runs so deep that he ensured John Candy’s influence was subtly present in all three of his Deadpool films. These aren’t just surface-level nods; they are cleverly integrated elements that only the most observant fans, or those privy to Reynolds’ revelations, would catch.
The Recurring ‘Canadian Mounted’ Book
One of the most consistent and subtle Easter eggs revolves around a specific prop: ‘The Canadian Mounted’ book. This book is famously read by John Candy’s character, Del Griffith, in the beloved 1987 film ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles.’ Reynolds revealed that he had a replica of this book created specifically for the Deadpool movies.
He meticulously arranged for Wade Wilson to be seen holding or reading this prop in:
- Deadpool (2016): The inaugural film subtly features the book.
- Deadpool 2 (2018): The book makes another appearance, continuing the quiet homage.
- Deadpool & Wolverine (2024): Even in the latest installment, the book can be spotted, completing the trilogy’s continuous tribute.
“I’m carrying it under my arm in a number of scenes,” Reynolds shared, admitting that he didn’t think anyone had actually noticed it on camera, highlighting the deeply personal nature of these tributes.
Narrative Echoes from ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles’
Beyond props, Candy’s influence extended into the very narrative and dialogue of the Deadpool films, particularly drawing from ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles.’
- Deadpool 2’s “I Like Me” Speech: In Deadpool 2, Wade Wilson delivers a version of Del Griffith’s memorable “I Like Me” speech from the 1987 classic. This powerful moment, infused with Candy’s original character’s vulnerability, highlights Reynolds’ ability to infuse profound emotional depth into the comedic chaos of Deadpool.
- “I Like Me” Coffee Mug in Deadpool & Wolverine: The sentiment of the speech is revisited in Deadpool & Wolverine with an “I Like Me” coffee mug, serving as a direct and heartwarming reference for those in the know.
- Wolverine’s Diatribe: Even a pivotal scene in Deadpool & Wolverine, featuring Hugh Jackman’s Wolverine launching into a “huge diatribe” against Wade Wilson, was directly influenced by ‘Planes, Trains and Automobiles.’ Reynolds explained this was a nod to the scene where Steve Martin’s character, Neal Page, confronts Del Griffith at the Braidwood Inn, showcasing how deep the inspirations run.
The Enduring Legacy of John Candy and the Documentary
These consistent tributes are a testament to the enduring impact John Candy had on Ryan Reynolds’ career and creative approach. Reynolds has stated that when “flummoxed in a scene or I can’t figure out a way in, I will just copy them,” referring to his idols like Candy. This reveals a practical application of admiration, directly influencing his acting choices and character development.
The release of the documentary “John Candy: I Like Me” on Prime Video on October 10, 2025, marks a significant moment for fans and for Reynolds personally. Co-produced by Reynolds, the film offers an intimate look into the life and legacy of the cherished actor, further cementing his place in cinematic history and acknowledging the profound influence he continues to have on contemporary performers like Ryan Reynolds, as detailed by People.
Why These Easter Eggs Resonate with Fans
For a fan community dedicated to classic films, these subtle nods are more than mere trivia; they are a bridge between generations of comedic talent and a heartfelt acknowledgment of cinematic history. Reynolds’ decision to embed these tributes within a hugely popular modern franchise like Deadpool ensures that John Candy’s work continues to be discovered and appreciated by new audiences, while simultaneously delighting long-time admirers.
The Deadpool films, known for their fourth-wall-breaking humor and meta-commentary, provide the perfect canvas for such nuanced homages. The first Deadpool movie, released in 2016, garnered significant critical and audience acclaim for its fresh take on the superhero genre, as noted by Rotten Tomatoes. These Easter eggs add another layer of depth, proving that even in the most chaotic and R-rated superhero adventures, a genuine love for classic comedy can shine through.
