Deadpool & Wolverine brought back one MCU veteran whom Ryan Reynolds considers as a foundational Marvel forefather.

Fans were genuinely surprised to see Ryan Reynolds interacting with one of the veteran MCU stars a few minutes into Deadpool & Wolverine. Making a surprise cameo that stole our hearts, Iron Man actor & director Jon Favreau returned to his role as Happy Hogan in a brief cameo. The latest gratitude post from the Deadpool star is to Favreau, who was a crucial addition to the film.

Jon Favreau as Happy Hogan in Iron Man 2 | Marvel Studios

Favreau was one of the key figures in establishing the Marvel Cinematic Universe, which went on to become a $30 billion-plus phenomenon. Reynolds shared that he was not just another cameo in the film but also involved in discussions about the larger themes and ideas of the film.

Ryan Reynolds Is Sure That His Gratitude Post Would Make Jon Favreau Uncomfortable

Jon Favreau and Ryan Reynolds in Deadpool & Wolverine | Marvel Studios

Deadpool & Wolverine had some of the best cameo appearances from Marvel and Fox universe superheroes. In one of the film’s earliest attempts to establish the MCU connection, fans see Ryan Reynolds‘ Deadpool attending an interview with none other than Happy Hogan. There are a few comedic exchanges, with Wade Wilson calling Jon Favreau’s character a “chauffeur”.

Reynolds’ character approaches Hogan to join the Avengers. Rather than just a humorous appearance, the interaction also provides some insights into the protagonist’s emotional character arc. Fans have earlier seen Jon Favreau‘s cameo appearances in Tom Holland‘s Spider-Man movies, but seeing him in a Deadpool film was exciting. Apparently, Reynolds too felt the same way.

In a gratitude post shared on his X page, Reynolds shared that Favreau gave them a “360-degree vision of an innovator, foundational Marvel forefather, and ace storyteller.” The Green Lantern actor was sure that Favreau would be “WILDLY uncomfortable” with his post but joked that he didn’t care since he got what he needed from the director.

Reynolds added that working with the Chef actor was better than sitting with one of his heroes. He further joked that it was better than being cradled in Thor’s arms. Reynolds shared that Favreau also talked with them about the story and they brainstormed larger themes and ideas for the film. He concluded that he would drop everything to show up for Favreau anytime.

Besides his directorial ventures with Iron Man and Iron Man 2, Favreau has also executive-produced several MCU films including Avengers: Infinity War. Favreau is also known for his work in Disney Star Wars project as the creator of The Mandalorian. He is the director, writer, and co-producer of the upcoming film The Mandalorian & Grogu.

Jon Favreau Beats Samuel L. Jackson’s Record With His Deadpool & Wolverine Appearance

Jon Favreau as Happy Hogan in Deadpool & Wolverine | Marvel Studios

Jon Favreau’s Deadpool & Wolverine appearance also helped him break a record previously held by Samuel L. Jackson. The Secret Invasion actor has played the role of Nick Fury for 15 years in the MCU. With his new cameo, Favreau’s Hogan just marked his 16th year in the MCU role. Happy Hogan features in eight MCU films since his appearance in Iron Man.

He has also lent his voice to the character in Marvel’s animated series What If…?. While the amount of time favors Favreau, Jackson has appeared in more films than the Cowboys & Aliens director. Nick Fury appeared in twelve MCU films, but he is nowhere near the actor who has the most number of MCU appearances. That record belongs to the legendary Stan Lee who made 23 appearances.

Deadpool & Wolverine is running successfully in theaters.