The cinematic world of superheroes is known for its epic battles, larger-than-life characters, and the deep lore that fans eagerly dissect with each new release. However, it’s not just the action-packed sequences or the interwoven narratives that keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Sometimes, it’s the clever nods, the inside jokes, and the long-standing rumors that captivate fans. This is precisely what the Deadpool & Wolverine movie delivers with its unexpected reference to a decades-old ‘feud’ between two iconic actors, Ryan Reynolds and Wesley Snipes.

The movie, already hyped for its mix of humor, action, and nostalgic callbacks, took things to another level with a reference that had been brewing for over twenty years. In the film, when Deadpool first encounters Blade, played by Wesley Snipes, the interaction is brief but loaded with history. Blade, with his signature stoicism, looks at Deadpool and says, “I don’t like you.” Deadpool, never missing a beat, replies, “Never did.” To the uninitiated, this might seem like just another quip in the Deadpool arsenal, but for those in the know, it’s a line that carries the weight of two decades of Hollywood gossip.

This moment is a callback to their time on the set of Blade: Trinity in 2004, a film that, despite its lackluster critical reception, has remained a topic of discussion largely due to the rumors of a feud between Snipes and Reynolds. During the filming, it was widely speculated that the two stars didn’t get along. Snipes, who was already a well-established action star, reportedly clashed with the up-and-coming Reynolds, who played the wise-cracking sidekick, Hannibal King. The rumors ranged from Snipes being irritated by Reynolds’ improvisational style to more serious claims of on-set tension that impacted the entire production.

These rumors were further fueled by Snipes’ reputation for being intensely focused and somewhat difficult to work with, particularly on the set of Blade: Trinity. In contrast, Reynolds was known for his easy-going nature and sharp wit, which sometimes clashed with Snipes’ more serious approach to the role of Blade. The supposed feud became so infamous that it was almost a part of Hollywood lore, with fans and industry insiders alike speculating on what really happened behind the scenes.

Fast forward twenty years, and the Deadpool & Wolverine movie decided to play into this history in a way that only Deadpool could. By acknowledging the rumors in such a direct and humorous manner, the film not only gave a nod to long-time fans but also added a layer of meta-humor that is quintessential to the Deadpool franchise. The scene is a perfect example of how the MCU and its associated films have mastered the art of blending fiction with reality, creating moments that resonate on multiple levels.

The story behind this reference is just as entertaining as the scene itself. In a recent interview, Wesley Snipes opened up about his return to the role of Blade and addressed the rumors head-on. He revealed that the idea for his cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine actually came from Ryan Reynolds, who reached out to him with the proposition. Snipes, with his characteristic humor, admitted that his first reaction to the text from Reynolds was, “I hate this guy.” However, this was all part of the joke. Snipes went on to explain that the so-called feud between them was more of a running gag than a serious dispute.

“We’ve been playing this joke for nearly two decades,” Snipes said. “The truth is, we’ve always gotten along. Ryan’s a great guy, and we’ve had a lot of fun with the rumors. When he suggested that we bring it up in the movie, I couldn’t resist.”

This revelation adds a new dimension to the scene. What was once perceived as animosity between the two stars has been recontextualized as an elaborate prank, a long-running joke that culminated in one of the most memorable moments in the Deadpool & Wolverine movie. It’s a testament to the enduring nature of Hollywood storytelling, where even off-screen antics can become part of the narrative.

But this scene isn’t just about Reynolds and Snipes. It also serves as a broader commentary on the nature of celebrity culture and the way rumors can take on a life of their own. The fact that this supposed feud has remained in the public consciousness for so long speaks to the fascination we have with the personal lives of celebrities, particularly when it comes to conflict. In many ways, the Deadpool & Wolverine movie is holding up a mirror to this aspect of pop culture, using humor to both acknowledge and diffuse the tension that rumors can create.

The inclusion of this reference also highlights one of the unique strengths of the Deadpool franchise: its ability to break the fourth wall and blur the lines between fiction and reality. From the very beginning, Deadpool has been a character who exists both within and outside of the traditional superhero framework. He’s aware that he’s in a movie, he talks directly to the audience, and he frequently references real-world events and people. This self-awareness allows the franchise to tackle subjects that other superhero movies might shy away from, all while maintaining a sense of irreverence and fun.

For fans of both actors, this scene is a moment of vindication. It shows that, despite all the rumors, Snipes and Reynolds are not only on good terms but are also willing to poke fun at the stories that have surrounded them for so many years. It’s a reminder that, at the end of the day, Hollywood is as much about entertainment off-screen as it is on-screen.

The return of Wesley Snipes as Blade is also significant for another reason. With the announcement that Mahershala Ali would be taking over the role in future Marvel projects, many fans were left wondering how Snipes would be honored, if at all. His cameo in Deadpool & Wolverine is a perfect way to acknowledge his contribution to the character while passing the torch to a new generation. It’s a bittersweet moment for fans who grew up with Snipes as Blade, but it’s also an exciting glimpse into the future of the MCU.

As the Deadpool & Wolverine movie continues to dominate the box office, fans are sure to keep uncovering more Easter eggs and references. However, the 20-year-old callback to the supposed feud between Snipes and Reynolds will likely remain one of the most talked-about moments. It’s a scene that encapsulates everything that makes the Deadpool franchise so beloved: its wit, its willingness to take risks, and its deep connection to both the past and present of superhero cinema.

In conclusion, the Deadpool & Wolverine movie has once again proven that it’s more than just a superhero film; it’s a celebration of the genre, its history, and the people who have brought it to life. The reference to the long-rumored feud between Wesley Snipes and Ryan Reynolds is a perfect example of how the film weaves together different threads of pop culture to create something that’s both entertaining and meaningful. Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to the franchise, this is one movie that you won’t want to miss. And who knows? Maybe in another twenty years, we’ll be talking about another legendary moment in superhero cinema that all started with a simple line: “I don’t like you… Never did.”