Ryan Reynolds was heard using strong language towards his wife, Blake Lively, rather than missing an important phone call from Bill Murray. The incident happened as Reynolds, known for his roles and producing efforts, was trying to connect with Murray for his latest project about comedian John Candy. This effort took place on Thursday, September 25, during a screening at the State Theatre in New Brunswick, New Jersey, where Reynolds appeared to promote the documentary John Candy: I Like Me.
Countless Messages Left to Reach Bill Murray
Reynolds revealed he had left 40 voicemail messages for the 75-year-old Groundhog Day star to persuade him to participate in the documentary. The actor-producer obtained Murray’s number through several connections, involving
“a friend of a friend of a friend,”
and used this to reach out persistently. His goal was to “pick his brain” about John Candy’s life and career, aiming to bring authentic insight to the film.
The Phone Call Interrupts Formal Event
As Reynolds and Blake Lively were about to enter a formal event, his phone finally rang with Murray on the line. Reynolds recounted,
“I’m there with my wife and we’re about to walk in and my phone buzzes, and I look at it,”
adding,
“It says Bill Murray and I go, ‘Bill Murray!’”
At this moment, Blake whispered, “We have to go in!” to which Reynolds shouted back, “F–k you!”
Further Efforts to Secure Murray’s Involvement
Following the initial conversation, Bill Murray promised to follow up but did not immediately do so, prompting Reynolds to leave another 40 messages to finalize the documentary. Increasingly desperate, he enlisted the help of his two children, including his two-year-old son Olin, by sending a video message appealing to Murray’s heart. Reynolds joked about the approach, saying,
“I said, ‘If you say no to a child like that, I don’t know what kind of monster you are,’”
which prompted Bill Murray to call back within seconds.
The Outcome and Impact on the Documentary
When Bill returned the call, he asked,
“What do you need from me for JC [John Candy]?”
securing his involvement for the film. This interaction dispelled false rumors about any feud between Ryan Reynolds and the Oscar-winning actor, affirming a collaborative relationship. The persistence shown by Reynolds highlights the lengths taken to honor John Candy’s legacy through the documentary, promising a genuine tribute that benefits from Murray’s insights and stories.
