Ryan Reynolds was a true hero yesterday when he granted a terminally-ill child’s dying wish.
The Canadian actor Facetimed Daniel Downing, a five-year-old from Britain who was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumour.
Daniel is a huge Marvel fan, especially when it comes to the wise-cracking anti-hero Deadpool. After rigorous campaigning led by family friend Biffy Lynch, Daniel’s family were finally able to reach the 40-year-old actor.
“My friend Biffy has been doing a lot for me. So many other friends have been fantastic and rallying around and saying nice words,” his mum Stephanie told the Plymouth Herald.
When Ryan was informed of Daniel’s plight, he volunteered to brighten up the child’s day by contacting the brave little guy while filming Deadpool 2.
Daniel was, of course, elated when his idol got in touch with him.
“Daniel picked up the phone, and Ryan asked if he knew who he was," said Daniel's mum Stephanie.
“As soon as Daniel realised, he asked if he could FaceTime him, and then he was very, very hyper,"
Ryan talked to him for about 15 minutes and showed him around the set before he had to head off to film a scene for the upcoming film.
"All the camera crew waved hello, and Daniel had his Mr Pool T-shirt on (like the Mr Men, but for Deadpool). Daniel was telling Ryan how poorly he'd been, and how his friends had helped him feel better," Stephanie said.
Daniel’s mum, step-dad, brother Jack, and two of his babysitters were present when Ryan made the call. They were all overcome with awe and gratitude for the actor’s support and kind words.
"I messaged his assistant to say how eternally grateful we all are for him taking the time out to talk to Daniel. It was absolutely fantastic," Stephanie said.
"I'm so happy for Daniel - it's something he wouldn't normally have been able to do, and he was so excited. He told all his friends and his teachers. It's nice to see him so excited, because he has been a bit down lately."
"I am eternally grateful for all the support we have been given, and want to say a massive thank you."
You can donate to Daniel's Just Giving page. So far, the campaign has reached £15,000.
Deadpool 2 will be released in cinemas next year.
