You’ve seen the "bromance" headlines. You’ve probably watched the TikTok clips of them roasting each other's sneaker collections or gin brands. But when it comes to Ryan Reynolds and Dwayne Johnson, the reality is way more interesting than just two A-listers playing nice for a Netflix camera.
Honestly? Most people think their friendship started on the set of Red Notice.
Wrong.
These two have been circling each other's orbits since before the MCU was even a thing. Back in 2002, when Reynolds was just the "Van Wilder guy" and Johnson was transitioning from the wrestling ring to The Scorpion King, they were already crossing paths on the press circuit. It's a twenty-year slow burn.
The 20-Year Friendship You Didn't Realize Existed
Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson actually considers Ryan Reynolds his oldest friend in Hollywood.
That’s a heavy title.
During an interview a few years back, Johnson admitted they basically "grew up" in the industry together. They were the guys doing MTV Spring Break promotions in Cancun while everyone else was taking the "serious actor" route.
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It’s easy to look at them now—two of the highest-paid men in show business—and assume it was all planned. But their chemistry is rooted in a shared history of being the outsiders. One was a pro wrestler people didn't take seriously; the other was a Canadian sitcom actor trying to find a niche.
They get each other.
Why Red Notice 2 Is Taking Forever
If they’re such good buddies, why hasn't the sequel happened?
Netflix announced back-to-back sequels for Red Notice years ago. As of early 2026, we’re still waiting. Here is the blunt truth: it isn't just about "busy schedules."
Scheduling three of the biggest stars on the planet—Reynolds, Johnson, and Gal Gadot—is a logistical nightmare that would make a NASA engineer sweat.
- The Budget Factor: The first film cost $200 million.
- The Salary Cap: Between the three leads, you're looking at nearly $80 million just in base salaries before a single frame is shot.
- The Creative Hold-up: Rumors have swirled about tension on the original set regarding punctuality.
While reports of a "feud" over Johnson’s alleged tardiness made the rounds, sources close to the production suggest it was more of a "professional disagreement" than a friendship-ending brawl. Reynolds is a guy who runs a tight ship—his Maximum Effort production company is built on efficiency. Johnson runs a global empire. Sometimes those gears grind.
Money, Gin, and Tequilas: The Business of Being a Star
It’s not just about movies anymore.
Ryan Reynolds and Dwayne Johnson aren't just actors; they are walking, talking venture capital firms.
If you watch Red Notice closely, you'll see a scene where Johnson’s character drinks Teremana Tequila and Reynolds’ character sips Aviation Gin. That’s not a coincidence. It’s a masterclass in cross-promotion.
In 2024, Johnson topped the Forbes highest-paid actors list with roughly $88 million in earnings. Reynolds was breathing down his neck at $85 million.
The interesting part?
A massive chunk of that cash didn't come from a director yelling "action." It came from ownership. Reynolds has his hands in Mint Mobile, Wrexham AFC, and MNTN. Johnson has Seven Bucks Productions, ZOA Energy, and his partnership with Under Armour.
They are essentially using Hollywood as a marketing platform for their private equity portfolios.
It’s brilliant. And a little terrifying.
What Really Happens on Set
Reynolds has a specific trick for breaking Johnson during a take.
He basically just mimics Johnson’s lines back to him, but about 25% faster and with a well-placed swear word at the end.
Apparently, it works every time.
"I've known Dwayne for 15-plus years," Reynolds once told Jimmy Fallon. "We spend 90 percent of the time dicking around and laughing, which is irresponsible with Netflix's money."
This "irresponsibility" is actually their greatest asset. In an era where CGI looks increasingly rubbery and plots feel like they were written by an algorithm, the only thing people actually care about is the vibe.
The vibe between these two is real.
The "Daughters" Connection
Beyond the business and the box office, there’s a weirdly specific personal bond.
Both men are "Girl Dads."
Johnson has three daughters. Reynolds has four.
When they aren't talking about scripts or profit participation, they’re likely venting about the chaos of a house full of young women. It’s the great equalizer. You can be the biggest movie star in the world, but you still have to deal with a toddler who refuses to put on shoes.
Future Projects: Will We See Them Together Again?
Aside from the looming Red Notice sequels, fans have been clamoring for a crossover in the superhero world.
With Reynolds firmly entrenched as Deadpool and Johnson’s future in the DC universe (post-Black Adam) looking a bit murky, a shared screen moment in a comic book movie seems unlikely for now.
However, don't rule out a business collaboration.
There have been quiet whispers about their respective production companies, Maximum Effort and Seven Bucks, co-producing a project that doesn't necessarily star both of them.
That’s where the real power lies.
If you want to follow the "Reynolds-Johnson" blueprint for success, look at how they manage their time. They don't just take "jobs." They take equity.
Next Steps for the Super-Fan:
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If you’re tracking their next moves, keep a close eye on the production start dates for Red Notice 2, which is currently projected for late 2026. In the meantime, watch their social media interactions—not for the jokes, but for the brands they’re wearing or drinking. That’s where the real story is being written. You should also check out Reynolds' documentary Welcome to Wrexham to see the business side of his brain in action, as it perfectly mirrors the empire-building strategy Johnson has used for decades.