Alan Ritchson of 'Reacher' Reflects on Suicide Attempt Following Sexual Assaults, Credits Vision of Sons for Saving Him

Actor Alan Ritchson discussed his challenging time in the modeling industry and the impact of sexual assault on his mental well-being. He stated, "There are very few positives in that industry." Ritchson, 41, believes the industry is like legalized sex trafficking. It's a poorly regulated sector where hired individuals are often handed over to photographers for exploitation. 

I faced countless horrific environments with sexual abuse as the goal, all for the sake of surviving and earning a paycheck. Ritchson was highly paid in modeling before transitioning to film and TV. "I constantly navigate the delicate balance of pleasing the photographer or agent without compromising my job and personal safety. I understand the challenges women face when dealing with power dynamics and predators at work. It's an unjust situation, but if necessary, I can defend myself physically to escape any threatening situation." Many women lack that choice. It's truly terrifying to contemplate. 

Ritchson verified a similar situation he experienced. "I was hired by a famous photographer for a shoot." I was promised a lucrative campaign for a magazine and clothing line if I did a nude shoot in a hotel room, but instead I was sexually assaulted. I left and went directly to the L.A. agency. "I stormed in and said, 'F–k you for sending me there. You knew and still did it,'" he recalled. I told them never to call me again. I quit the industry, and it was my last photo shoot. The pictures were never seen or published. That's it. 

Thankfully, acting came into my life just as I swore off my previous career, allowing me to switch paths. However, it left me with scars as I suffered from sexual assault, leading to declining mental health and a suicide attempt. "I hung myself. It happened quickly, and I couldn't endure it," he said, describing his desperate situation. Ritchson's sons saved him from suicide. They asked him to stay alive. Diagnosed as bipolar after. Deep inside, it was comforting to realize, "There's a name for this." 

Ultimately, I pondered, "If I'm going to opt for life here - a choice we all make, to varying degrees - what's my purpose? Why am I here?" I consistently found solace in the belief that as beings created by a higher power, our unequivocal purpose in life is to improve the world and assist others. That's life.