Actor Alan Ritchson Opens Up About Overcoming Trauma and Finding Hope in Fatherhood

Reacher s Alan Ritchson Attempted Suicide After Being Sexual Assaulted

Alan Ritchson. Edward Berthelot/WireImage

Actor Alan Ritchson recently shared his struggles in the modeling industry and how experiencing sexual assault impacted his mental well-being. In a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter, the 41-year-old opened up about the dark side of the industry. Ritchson candidly expressed, "There are very few positives to working in that industry. Let's face it, it's like legalized sex trafficking." He revealed that the industry lacks regulations, making it a breeding ground for exploitation. Ritchson recalled numerous instances where he found himself in distressing situations, with the promise of a paycheck being the only motivation to endure such abuse.

Before transitioning to film and TV, Ritchson was one of the top earners at his modeling agency.

He shared his experience of walking a fine line between keeping his job and avoiding offensive situations, as well as empathizing with women facing power struggles and predatory behavior in the workplace. Ritchson acknowledged the unfairness of the situation and highlighted the difference in options for men and women in such scenarios.

Ritchson shared a personal experience where he found himself in a situation similar to the one he mentioned. He recounted being booked for a shoot by a well-known photographer, who had promised him a lucrative campaign for a magazine and a clothing line if he agreed to do nudes. However, during the shoot, he was sexually assaulted by the photographer. Upset and angry, he immediately left and drove to his agency in Los Angeles. Once there, he confronted them, expressing his frustration and disappointment. He made it clear that he was aware they knew what would happen but still sent him there. In the end, he decided to quit the industry, vowing never to participate in another photoshoot again. Fortunately, around the same time, he discovered acting, which led him to a new career path. Despite the scars left by the experience, he was grateful for the opportunity to transition to a different profession.

Reacher s Alan Ritchson Attempted Suicide After Being Sexual Assaulted

Alan Ritchson. Jamie McCarthy/WireImage

After experiencing several incidents of sexual assault, Ritchson's mental health began to deteriorate, leading him to a suicide attempt. He recalled feeling overwhelmed and desperate, saying, "I hung myself. It all happened so fast, and I was dangling there."

Despite the dark moment, a vision of his sons, whom he shares with his wife Catherine Ritchson, appeared to him and urged him to reconsider. "They calmly asked me not to do it, and told me that they wanted me to be here, alive and part of their lives," he shared. Following the attempt, Ritchson was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, which provided some relief as he now had a name for what he was experiencing.

He reflected on his experience and pondered the meaning of life, questioning why he chooses to be alive and what his purpose is. As a believer in a creator, he believes that our purpose as created beings is to make the world a better place and to serve others. This, he concluded, is the essence of life.

For those in emotional distress or contemplating suicide, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 is available for support. If you or someone you know has experienced sexual assault, reach out to the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1-800-656-HOPE (4673) for assistance.

Editor's P/S:

Alan Ritchson