In a recent revelation, Alan Ritchson, the 41-year-old actor known for his role in Reacher, has received high praise from none other than Tom Cruise himself. Cruise, an iconic figure in the film industry, has dubbed Ritchson as “the most legendary actor of all time,” recognizing his portrayal of the protagonist in Reacher.
The acknowledgment came to light during a candid conversation with Jonatan Blomberg Interviews, where Ritchson was asked about his perspective on stepping into the shoes of a character previously played by Cruise. Contrary to any expectation of rivalry or discomfort, Ritchson expressed that he never felt bad about being compared to the Mission: Impossible star. Instead, he conveyed profound admiration for Cruise, stating that he would never tire of being likened to someone of Cruise’s unparalleled stature in the industry.
Ritchson went on to commend Cruise’s impact on the Reacher project, acknowledging the significant attention the superstar brought to it. “Look, he did his thing, he brought a lot of eyes to this project that wouldn’t be here otherwise, I think,” Ritchson remarked during the interview. He recognized the value of the intellectual property, emphasizing the success of the show not only because of the acclaimed book series but also due to Cruise’s role in raising awareness.
The actor further highlighted the widespread enjoyment of the show, attributing a portion of its success to Cruise’s influence. “There’s some great IP, the books are great, a lot of people have read them and enjoy the show because of them, but I think a lot of people enjoy the show because he made them aware of it,” Ritchson added.
This discussion comes in the wake of the latest season of Reacher, which has sparked debates among fans about Tom Cruise’s involvement in the original films. The acknowledgment from Cruise serves as a testament to Ritchson’s prowess as an actor and the success of the Reacher series, solidifying the notion that legends recognize legends in the ever-evolving landscape of Hollywood.
