Ryan Reynolds Once Launched the ‘World’s Most Affordable Streaming Service’–But Here’s the Catch

Ryan Reynolds is among the many celebrities who have realized the perks of expanding their interests beyond the world of entertainment. After all, fame is a fleeting thing and million-dollar movie paychecks aren’t guaranteed forever.

The Canadian actor has notably gone on various business ventures in the past couple of years. None of them have left people as confused as his most recent move, though.

Limited Catalog

metamorworks/Shutterstock: Streaming platforms typically entice subscribers with an expansive content catalog

Seemingly trying to capitalize on the popularity of streaming platforms, the ‘Green Lantern’ star shared that Mint Mobile, a company he has a stake in, launched its own streaming service.

Dubbed Mint Mobile+, the platform was launched with just one movie in its catalog. The only thing you can ‘binge-watch’ on it is a little-known movie from Reynolds’ acting filmography, ‘Foolproof.’

The 2003 film is a thriller heist starring the actor as one-third of a burglary-planning trio. The movie was only a moderate financial success in Canada and would probably be unknown to movie watchers outside the country.

To make up for Mint Mobile+’s limited catalog, posters of ‘Foolproof’ fashioned to imitate posters of more popular movies were posted on the mintmobileplus.com website, where the film was streamed for free.

Unconventional Acquisition

Kathy Hutchins/Shutterstock: Reynolds is primarily known for his roles in blockbuster action movies

Judging from the way the platform was launched, it’s safe to say that Reynolds was only trolling unsuspecting viewers.

It’s worth noting though that he really has an ownership stake in Mint Mobile. He became co-owner of the wireless mobile company in 2019.

Speaking about the move, he says that he particularly liked the investment because it was ‘unconventional.’ This is true especially in comparison with the kinds of companies Hollywood stars typically associate with.

Reynolds pointed out how other celebrities invest in companies that produce high-end products like skincare or liquor. However, he’s interested in how Mint Mobile is trying to make wireless more affordable for consumers.

Business Ventures

Daniel Muresan/Shutterstock: Reynolds is reportedly responsible for overseeing Aviation America Gin’s creative direction

The actor does have more conventional investments, though. He acquired a stake in Aviation American Gin in 2018 and has been active in promoting the product since.

In 2020, he also joined the board of Match Group. If that company sounds familiar to you, then you’ve probably used its services before.

Match is the parent company of popular dating sites like Tinder, Ok Cupid, PlentyOfFish, and Match.com.

Thanks to his blockbuster movies and these business ventures, Reynolds has built a fortune that’s around $150 million.