Channing Tatum recently took to Instagram to express his heartfelt gratitude towards Ryan Reynolds for helping him realize his long-held dream of portraying Gambit in the Marvel universe. Tatum’s emotional message highlighted the significance of Reynolds’ support in reviving his aspirations for the character, which he thought he had lost forever.
In his post, Tatum wrote, “I thought I had lost Gambit forever. But he fought for me and Gambit. I will owe him probably forever. Cause I’m not sure how I could ever do something that would be equal to what this has meant to me. I love ya buddy.” This sentiment reflects the deep bond and mutual respect that has developed between the two actors over the years.
Channing Tatum was initially set to star in a standalone Gambit film back in 2014. However, the project faced numerous setbacks and was ultimately shelved in 2019 following Disney’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox. Despite these challenges, Tatum finally donned the Gambit costume this year for a cameo in the highly anticipated film, Deadpool & Wolverine, alongside Reynolds and Hugh Jackman.
Accompanying his heartfelt message were two side-by-side photos of Tatum and Reynolds taken at San Diego Comic-Con, one from 2015 and the other from 2024. In both images, Tatum proudly wore a Gambit T-shirt, symbolizing his enduring connection to the character. Tatum reminisced about the moment he first saw Reynolds unveil Deadpool to the world, recalling how he rushed backstage to congratulate him. “I think I ran back stage right after and found him and I think I just hugged him and was like holy shit you did it man. It’s perfect,” he shared.
In addition to praising Reynolds, Tatum also expressed his appreciation for Deadpool & Wolverine director Shawn Levy. He described Levy as “truly such a brilliant creator on every single level” and expressed his gratitude for being part of what he considers a “masterpiece.” Tatum’s excitement was palpable as he recounted his experience watching the film, stating, “I was literally screaming in the theater.” His enthusiasm for the project was evident, and he emphasized the joy it brought him.
In a follow-up Instagram post, Tatum extended his gratitude to Hugh Jackman, Levy, and producer Kevin Feige. He referred to Jackman as “the one and only Hugh Wolverine Jackman” and praised Feige for orchestrating an incredible experience. Tatum’s words reflected the camaraderie and excitement shared among the cast and crew, highlighting the collaborative spirit that brought Deadpool & Wolverine to life.
As Tatum’s Gambit made his long-awaited return, the film has garnered a massive audience worldwide. However, it is clear that no one is more passionate about the project than Tatum himself. His surprise appearance as Gambit in Deadpool & Wolverine was a moment fans had been eagerly anticipating, and Tatum’s heartfelt tribute to Reynolds underscored the significance of their friendship and shared journey in the industry.
Reynolds, in turn, reciprocated Tatum’s praise by sharing his post on his Instagram Story. He referred to Tatum as a “once in a generation talent” and a “genuinely good man.” Reynolds acknowledged the dedication Tatum exhibited in bringing Gambit to life, stating, “I know what it feels like to will a character into existence. Chan did that.” His words reflected a deep understanding of the challenges actors face in their pursuit of iconic roles.
In a subsequent tweet, Reynolds continued to celebrate Tatum’s portrayal of Gambit, emphasizing the character’s significance to both of them. He remarked, “Gambit is a guy Chan was born to play. His story is similar to mine in that he spent a decade trying to put the most comic-accurate version of Gambit on the big screen.” Reynolds’ admiration for Tatum’s commitment to the role was evident, and he expressed his excitement for the character’s future in the Marvel universe.
As fans flock to theaters to witness the dynamic between Deadpool, Wolverine, and Gambit, the camaraderie between Tatum and Reynolds serves as a reminder of the passion and dedication that drives actors to bring beloved characters to life. Their journey, marked by perseverance and friendship, has culminated in a moment that resonates with fans and celebrates the spirit of comic book storytelling.
In conclusion, Channing Tatum’s heartfelt tribute to Ryan Reynolds for his support in reviving Gambit showcases the power of friendship and collaboration in the entertainment industry. As Tatum steps into the role he has long desired, the excitement surrounding Deadpool & Wolverine continues to grow, promising an unforgettable experience for audiences worldwide.
Source: Various
