Reacher’s Alan Ritchson: Sharing Meals and Supersized Stakes in Season 3
A Force of Goodness On and Off-Screen
Introduction
Alan Ritchson, the eponymous star of Amazon Prime’s hit series "Reacher," embodies the role of a true hero not only on screen, where his character delivers bone-crunching blows to adversaries, but also off-screen, where he nourishes his fellow cast members.
Catering to the Colossal
Season 3 of "Reacher" introduces the towering 7-foot-2-inch Dutch bodybuilder-turned-actor Olivier Richters as Paulie, a formidable henchman for charismatic businessman Zachary Beck (Anthony Michael Hall). To ensure that the colossal Richters maintained his strength, Ritchson generously shared his personal chef with the larger-than-life actor.
"I’m talking 4,000 calories a day. This guy’s twice my size. We’ve got to make sure he’s not wasting away," quipped Ritchson, revealing his dedication to supporting his castmates’ well-being.
Bigger and Badder Than Ever
Building on the success of its first two seasons, "Reacher" Season 3 cranks up the intensity with a captivating new plot, larger-than-life villains, and heightened emotional stakes.
"Everyone loves this show because it’s so grounded yet bigger and badder than ever," asserts Brian Tee, a newcomer to the "Reacher" universe. "We go along for the ride and (Reacher’s) the hero that we all want because he doesn’t pull any punches."
An Unchanging Hero Amidst Adversity
Ritchson portrays Jack Reacher, a stoic and unwavering ex-military investigator who finds himself entangled in a series of deadly plots. Despite the challenges he faces, Reacher remains resolute in his principles.
"This is not a character who has some great evolution over the course of the book series or the show," explains Ritchson. "But what we can do is really ratchet up the stakes (and) give it some gravity."
The Shadowy Villain
This season, Reacher teams up with DEA agent Susan Duffy (Sonya Cassidy) to investigate the murder of a close acquaintance, leading them to a mysterious and elusive villain portrayed by Tee. The pursuit of justice fuels Reacher’s unwavering determination.
"What does it look like when you mess with one of the most important relationships in his world?" poses Ritchson. "Reacher’s unchanging. Give it some gravity."
A Clash of Titans
Reacher’s physical prowess is tested when he confronts Paulie, Beck’s imposing henchman. Despite Paulie’s immense size, Reacher remains undeterred, maintaining his trademark tenacity.
"What you expect is for Reacher or anybody who sees somebody that size to be intimidated and walk on eggshells around him. And Reacher’s Reacher," says Ritchson. "So the way that he’s poking the bear, he’s happy to do it with somebody who’s 7-2, 400 pounds, and I think we love him for it."
Beyond the Shadow
Richters was inspired by Jaws, Richard Kiel’s iconic James Bond baddie, in crafting Paulie’s character. He aimed to convey the giant henchman’s growing irritation with Reacher, culminating in an inevitable clash.
"I love that," extols Richters. "From there on, it just keeps going until two titans collide."
Allies in the Fight
Alongside Reacher’s formidable opponents, the hero is supported by a cast of loyal allies. Duffy, a Bostonian federal agent, shares Reacher’s quirks and resilience.
"It’s hilarious and kind of delicious to see another person come into Reacher’s life being like, ‘Why are you acting the way you are?’" remarks Cassidy, who portrays Duffy. "Duffy isn’t particularly impressed when she first meets him, but then over time they earn each other’s trust and a bond is formed that catches them off guard."
Neagley, a private investigator and Reacher’s longtime confidant, also plays a pivotal role. Her unwavering support and intuitive understanding of her friend prove invaluable.
"I don’t want you to come" is "certainly a red flag," says Sten, who portrays Neagley. "She takes offense: I’m not just anyone, this is me."
A Spinoff in the Works
Neagley’s character will headline a "Reacher" spinoff series, offering fans a deeper dive into her past and psyche. Sten hints at a "John Wick" level of intensity.
"You dive much deeper into Neagley and her psyche and what she grapples with," Sten teases. "And, of course, you get to have the cool, really kick-ass action."
A Possible Cameo?
Fans may wonder if Reacher himself will make an appearance in the spinoff series. Ritchson remains coy, but hints at the possibility of a cameo.
"We cannot confirm or deny. We will have to kill you if you find out," Ritchson jokes. "Probably, maybe, a very good chance. If I just happen to fly through Chicago, and it makes sense."
