Couple to move from Texas to Wrexham after watching Ryan Reynolds series

August 10, 2026

A retired couple from Texas, Jeff and Janice Ivey, are relocating permanently to Wrexham, Wales after discovering the city through the Disney+ documentary series about Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenanny's ownership of the local football club. Their connection to Wrexham began unexpectedly when a missing hoodie from a local band led to ongoing correspondence and eventually their first visit in 2024. After seven trips to Wales over two-and-a-half years, including a month-long stay to evaluate the move seriously, they decided the city's working-class character and welcoming community reminded them of their Pennsylvania and Pittsburgh roots.

Who is affected

Jeff Ivey (62-year-old retiree from finance with UK citizenship through Scottish ancestry)
Janice Ivey (65-year-old)
The couple's three adult children (who will have parents living overseas)
Michael Hett (singer of the Declan Swans band who encouraged their visit)
The Wrexham community (gaining new residents and volunteers)
Wrexham Miners Project and Hope House children's hospice (receiving volunteer support)

What action is being taken

Jeff is house-hunting in Wrexham
Janice is selling their home in New Braunfels, Texas and awaiting her visa
The couple is volunteering at the Wrexham Miners Project and supporting Hope House children's hospice
Jeff is learning Welsh

Why it matters

This demonstrates the significant cultural and economic impact of the "Welcome to Wrexham" documentary series in raising the city's international profile and attracting new residents. It highlights how media representation can influence real-world migration decisions and community revitalization. The story also illustrates the appeal of working-class community values and authentic connections in an increasingly globalized world, showing how a city's heritage and welcoming atmosphere can attract international investment in the form of permanent residents who actively contribute to local causes and culture.

What's next

Jeff will continue house-hunting in Wrexham
Janice will complete the sale of their Texas home and obtain her visa before joining Jeff
The couple plans to get involved in Wrexham's bid to become the UK's City of Culture for 2029
Their three adult children plan to visit once their parents find a home
Jeff has put down a deposit on a season ticket for Wrexham AFC

Read full article from source: BBC