Ryan Reynolds reacts to Deadpool VR recasting in a viral, comedic video after Marvel announced Neil Patrick Harris would voice Deadpool in the upcoming virtual reality game. The lighthearted response, shared shortly after the reveal at Summer Games Fest, adds both humor and clarity to fans unsure about the new direction for the character.
Reynolds Responds with Signature Humor After Being Recast
During the recent Summer Games Fest stream, Marvel unveiled a new Deadpool video game, but fans quickly noticed the voice in the trailer did not belong to Ryan Reynolds. Instead, Neil Patrick Harris was revealed as the voice behind the wisecracking antihero in Marvel’s Deadpool VR, breaking away from tradition where Reynolds had become nearly synonymous with the character. Eager to put his stamp on the situation, Reynolds released a reaction video titled ‘Ryan Over-Reacts to Marvel’s Deadpool VR.’
Wearing a lab coat and glasses, Reynolds lampooned Harris’s early TV role by referencing Doogie Howser, M.D., in his video, all while typing in a journal-style on an old-school keyboard. The playful jab poked fun at his “signature role” being taken, drawing a chuckle from anyone familiar with both actors’ careers. The moment, humorous in nature, allowed Reynolds to publicly embrace the news of Harris’s casting without any sign of animosity.
Background: Reynolds’ Lasting Impact as Deadpool
Ryan Reynolds first portrayed Deadpool in X-Men Origins: Wolverine, although that original outing is often remembered with frustration by fans due to creative choices—specifically Marvel’s decision to silence Wade Wilson, known as the “merc with the mouth.” Reynolds finally brought the true comic spirit of Deadpool to life in the highly acclaimed 2016 film and its sequel, winning over audiences and solidifying himself as the definitive voice and face of the character for nearly a decade.
This legacy made the recasting news particularly surprising for many, with fans and media outlets such as ComicBook.com noting the significant shift. Reynolds, never one to shy away from delivering a clever retort, didn’t miss the opportunity to weigh in, maintaining his signature witty style.
Fans React to the New Deadpool Voice and Reynolds’ Comments
Marvel fans have expressed a mixture of surprise and excitement about Neil Patrick Harris voicing Deadpool for the Meta Quest title. Many were initially unsure about hearing a new actor take on the voice of such an iconic character. However, the majority seem united in their enjoyment of Ryan Reynolds’ reaction video, which cleverly blends satire with affection for the role.
Marketing for the game made full use of Reynolds’ comedic approach. The background of his reaction video features prominent Meta Quest branding and actual trailer footage—clear indicators of collaboration between Marvel and Reynolds in shaping the game’s rollout. Fans have especially enjoyed seeing Reynolds both honor his tenure as Deadpool and poke fun at the transition, celebrating his ability to “over-react” in characteristically funny fashion.
One highly-rated comment under the video states,
“He actually reacted to the trailer 10/10”
—a sentiment that encapsulates audience appreciation. Another commenter, riffing on the visual gag, notes,
“I’ve finally learned how to type on the keyboard because of this, Thank you Ryan Reynolds.”
These responses show that while reactions are mixed regarding Harris’s casting, the clever acknowledgment from Reynolds has helped smooth the transition for many long-time supporters.
Doogie Howser Reference Strikes a Chord
The video’s allusion to Doogie Howser, M.D.—the sitcom where Harris played a young medical prodigy until 1993—landed especially well with those aware of both pop culture references. Many Marvel viewers, also fans of Captain America, resonated with the playful mention and appreciated Reynolds’ ability to weave in a “deep cut.” The video’s tone, packed with sass and sitcom energy, effectively mirrored the hallmark Deadpool style, ensuring that the advertising itself connected with the franchise’s audience on multiple levels.
What to Expect from Marvel’s Deadpool VR
Marvel’s Deadpool VR is slated for release exclusively on Meta Quest 3 and 3S platforms. While no specific release date has been disclosed yet, the game is expected to arrive before the end of the year, giving fans time to adjust to the casting shift and look forward to a new experience. The development has reignited excitement around Marvel’s game plans, with many watching closely to see how Neil Patrick Harris brings his own spin to the beloved character.
As Reynolds continues to be celebrated for his definitive portrayal, the handoff to Harris in this new virtual reality format marks a fresh chapter. Marvel, known for bold moves and media-savvy announcements, appears to be navigating the transition smoothly, leveraging both the history and personality of the actors involved. Enthusiastic fan engagement with Reynolds’ video and ongoing speculation regarding the game’s content suggest that Marvel’s Deadpool VR will be a significant event in gaming and superhero entertainment this year.
The response to the recasting—illuminated by Reynolds’ unforgettable reaction—demonstrates not just the lasting impact one actor can have on a role, but also the evolving nature of comic book adaptations. Marvel, Harris, and Reynolds are each poised to add new layers to Deadpool’s story as this anticipated VR title gears up for launch.
