Ryan Reynolds Receives Order of Canada Honor and Vows to ‘Use My Powers for Good’

Ryan Reynolds’ Canadian citizenship just leveled up.

On Wednesday, Dec. 18, Governor General of Canada Mary Simon announced the list of 88 new appointees to the Order of Canada, which this year includes the Deadpool & Wolverine actor and Vancouver native, who currently resides in New York.

“Ryan Reynolds has captivated audiences worldwide, notably writing, producing and starring in the widely successful Deadpool films,” reads an official release. “Off-screen, he supports Canadian causes including Water First Education, Covenant House Vancouver and SickKids Foundation, and co-founded initiatives to increase opportunities for under-represented groups.”

“His far-reaching philanthropy continues to strengthen communities nationwide,” the statement continued of Reynolds, 48.

The Order of Canada is the country’s highest citizenship distinction and, according to the governor general’s website, “honors people who make extraordinary contributions to the nation.”

“The contributions of these trailblazers are varied, yet they have all enriched the lives of others and made a difference to this country,” the description adds. “Their grit and passion inspire us, teach us and show us the way forward. They exemplify the Order’s motto: DESIDERANTES MELIOREM PATRIAM (‘They desire a better country’).”

Reynolds reacted to the award on X, writing in a post about the news, “Canada, you’ve given me more than I could ever repay.”

“Thank you for this incredible honor — I promise to use my powers for good … and general whimsy. @GGCanada,” he added.

This is not the first time Reynolds has been recognized by his native country. In November 2023, the star received the Order of British Columbia, the province of his hometown Vancouver.

He also received the Academy of Canadian Cinema and Television‘s humanitarian award that same year, “for his dedication to philanthropy throughout his career with several generous donations to various charities,” per the Government of British Columbia‘s website.

“There’s a surreal aspect to this that isn’t lost on me at all,” Reynolds told Postmedia, per the Vancouver Sun, following the ceremony for the latter honor, quipping, “There is an element to this that feels a little bit like St. Peter at the gate and looking back at your life and watching only highlights, no lowlights, which is kind of nice. I appreciate St. Peter’s editing.”

“So there’s that aspect, but it’s just an incredible honor to be recognized by my home,” he added. “I don’t know a more succinct way to put it. This is a homecoming in every sense. I was pretty moved listening to those folks talk about me as if I can’t hear them.”