In 2020, amidst the global pandemic, actor, writer, and producer Rob McElhenney embarked on an unexpected journey: buying a sports team. The co-creator and star of “It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia” found himself Googling, “How do I buy a sports team?” This search led him to Wrexham, a struggling football club in a working-class mining town in Wales. The town’s deep-rooted love for their football club resonated with McElhenney, reminding him of his own hometown, Philadelphia, and its passionate sports fans.
McElhenney’s vision was to bring hope to Wrexham by revitalizing its football club. He reached out to actor Ryan Reynolds, who agreed to co-own the team. The FX documentary series “Welcome to Wrexham,” now in its third season and streaming on Hulu, captures the ups and downs of the team, its owners, and its fans. McElhenney’s goal with the series is to draw more people into the sport and the town of Wrexham. He describes the show as a “love letter to working-class people,” aiming for viewers to see themselves in the town of Wrexham.
The European football system, with its promotion and relegation structure, fascinated McElhenney. Unlike American sports, where teams remain in the same league regardless of performance, European football teams can be promoted to higher leagues or relegated to lower ones based on their records. This system means that even teams from the lowest leagues, composed of players with full-time jobs, can theoretically rise to the Premier League with enough investment and infrastructure.
McElhenney’s decision to involve Reynolds was based on their friendship and mutual respect. Despite never having met in person, their positive interactions via text convinced McElhenney that Reynolds would be a perfect partner. Reynolds’ entrepreneurial spirit and ethical nature made him an ideal co-owner. McElhenney’s heartfelt email to Reynolds led to a late-night phone call, signaling Reynolds’ commitment to the venture.
The documentary series also highlights the people of Wrexham, thanks to the producers’ efforts to capture the town’s essence. They visited local pubs and restaurants, seeking out compelling stories from residents. The town, with its coal mining history, has faced tough times, but there’s a strong sense of hope and pride among its people.
“Welcome to Wrexham” alternates between scenes of Reynolds and McElhenney in Los Angeles and segments in Wrexham, showcasing the stark contrast between the two worlds. The series introduces viewers to key figures in the town, such as Wayne Jones, the owner of the Turf Pub, and Paul Rutherford, a midfielder struggling to support his family. Kerry Evans, a wheelchair-bound volunteer, is offered a salaried position, reflecting the positive changes brought by the new ownership.
The series also features fans like Shaun Winter, who, despite personal struggles, finds hope in the club’s new direction. The new owners invest heavily in the club, improving the pitch and stadium and signing key players like star forward Paul Mullin. Mullin quickly becomes a fan favorite, with supporters creating chants in his honor.
Reynolds and McElhenney’s genuine love for the game and their commitment to the club and its community shine through. Their self-deprecating humor and mutual respect make the series both entertaining and heartfelt. Despite the challenges, their dedication to Wrexham AFC and its fans is evident, bringing a renewed sense of hope and pride to the town.
