Ryan Reynolds Calls Dafne Keen’s Return to Deadpool & Wolverine ‘A Pinch Me Moment’—Here’s Why

The highly anticipated Deadpool & Wolverine, released on July 26, 2024, became an instant blockbuster, grossing $1.338 billion worldwide and securing its spot as the second-highest-grossing film of 2024. A standout feature of the film was its seamless blending of the irreverent humor of Deadpool with the legacy of the X-Men, notably through Hugh Jackman’s return as Wolverine. One of the most heartwarming surprises was the return of Dafne Keen as Laura Kinney, also known as X-23, whose appearance in the film was a nostalgic callback to her breakout role in Logan (2017). Ryan Reynolds, who stars in and produces Deadpool & Wolverine, was quick to publicly praise Keen’s performance, highlighting her pivotal role in the film’s emotional core.

Keen’s Impact on the Film’s Heart
Ryan Reynolds took to social media to reflect on Keen’s performance, which he described as the “big beating heart” of the movie. In a post on X, Reynolds wrote, “When Dafne Keen shows up in #DeadpoolAndWolverine she shines her light toward the big beating heart of the movie. Dafne and Hugh standing next to each other is a pinch me moment. It stands on the shoulders of the LOGAN film which is both a masterpiece and a giant.” This statement, shared two weeks after the film’s release, underlined the emotional weight of Keen’s return, especially in scenes where she shared the screen with Jackman’s Wolverine, marking a reunion that was both powerful and symbolic for fans of Logan.

The emotional resonance of Keen’s role was particularly significant, as it bridged the narrative gap between the Logan film, which served as Hugh Jackman’s farewell to the iconic character, and Deadpool & Wolverine. Reynolds’ praise highlights Keen’s role in anchoring the film’s heart, serving as a pivotal link to the past while contributing her own charisma and presence to the storyline.

Dafne Keen’s Surprising Return
Initially, rumors suggested that Keen might not return for Deadpool & Wolverine, with some reports speculating her absence. However, her inclusion was confirmed in trailers, and fans were overjoyed to see her reprise her role as X-23. Keen’s return was more than just a cameo; it was a key moment in the film, especially during a poignant dinner scene with Wolverine, Deadpool, and other characters, which critics highlighted as one of the most memorable moments in the movie. The emotional weight of her reunion with Wolverine added a layer of depth to the film’s narrative, making her presence all the more significant.

Reynolds’ Role as a Promoter and Collaborator
Ryan Reynolds has long been known for his collaborative spirit, and his praise for Dafne Keen fits into his ongoing efforts to celebrate his co-stars’ contributions. In Deadpool & Wolverine, Reynolds not only shines as the irreverent anti-hero Deadpool but also as a promoter of his fellow cast members. This was evident in his social media posts, where he highlighted the return of other iconic characters, such as Jennifer Garner’s Elektra and Wesley Snipes’ Blade, with the same enthusiasm. However, Keen’s praise stands out for its deeply emotional tone, rooted in the nostalgia and reverence for her work in Logan.

A Nostalgic Legacy and Emotional Weight
The praise for Keen underscores the lasting impact of Logan and its connection to Deadpool & Wolverine. For fans of both films, Keen’s return was more than just a cameo—it was a poignant reminder of the emotional depth of her character and the legacy of Logan. Reynolds’ acknowledgment of her contribution to the film’s emotional core reinforces her importance in the broader X-Men universe, where her character’s journey is far from over.

As Deadpool & Wolverine continues to dominate at the box office and generate buzz for its nostalgic and emotional moments, Dafne Keen’s return as X-23 has proven to be one of the film’s standout highlights. With Reynolds’ heartfelt praise, it’s clear that Keen’s performance was integral to the film’s success, resonating with both fans and critics alike.