‘Reacher’ star Alan Ritchson reveals feud with former classmate Matt Gaetz: ‘We are adversaries’

A High School Rivalry Turns Political

In a recent interview with GQ, actor Alan Ritchson, known for his role as Jack Reacher in the Amazon Prime series, opened up about a childhood feud with former Florida Representative Matt Gaetz. Ritchson, who grew up in Niceville, Florida, after his family moved there from North Dakota when he was 10, revealed that he and Gaetz were adversaries during their time at Niceville High School. Gaetz, who graduated a year before Ritchson, went on to become a controversial political figure, while Ritchson pursued a career in acting. Ritchson’s candid remarks about Gaetz highlight the deep-seated disdain he harbors for his former classmate, calling him “that motherf–ker” and expressing shock that Gaetz continued to be elected by the people of Florida’s 1st District despite the controversies surrounding him.

From High School to Capitol Hill: A Tale of Two Paths

Ritchson and Gaetz grew up in the same small town of Niceville, Florida, but their lives took vastly different turns after high school. Ritchson went on to build a successful acting career, eventually landing the lead role in the popular Amazon Prime series Reacher. Gaetz, on the other hand, pursued a career in politics, becoming a prominent figure in Florida’s political landscape. However, Gaetz’s time in office was marked by numerous scandals, including allegations of unethical behavior and improper conduct. Despite these controversies, Gaetz managed to maintain a strong base of support in his district, a fact that Ritchson finds particularly troubling. Ritchson’s frustration stems not only from their personal history but also from what he perceives as Gaetz’s failure to serve his constituents honestly and effectively.

Scandals and Controversies: The Fall of a Politician

Matt Gaetz’s political career was fraught with controversy, leading to his eventual resignation in November 2024. During his time in office, he faced numerous ethics investigations, including allegations that he paid women for sex and drugs, and even accusations of having sex with a minor. Although Gaetz denied these allegations, they cast a long shadow over his career. Despite these scandals, Gaetz was reelected in 2024, a decision that Ritchson found baffling. Ritchson’s comments reflect a broader frustration with the political system and the willingness of some voters to overlook serious ethical issues when supporting their preferred candidates. Gaetz’s resignation came after he was nominated for Attorney General by then-President-elect Donald Trump, a move that Ritchson likely viewed as an attempt to escape accountability for his actions.

A Glimpse into Alan Ritchson’s Political Ideology

While Ritchson has never pursued a career in politics, his comments about Gaetz offer insight into his views on the political process. Ritchson expressed a certain disillusionment with the system, admitting that he once considered running for office to “outdo somebody like [Gaetz],” but ultimately decided against it. He cited his inability to navigate the duplicity and compromises that often come with political life as the reason for his decision. Ritchson’s remarks suggest that he values authenticity and transparency, qualities he believes are often lacking in politicians. His perspective on politics is pragmatic, acknowledging that while some politicians may stay true to their principles, they are often ineffective in getting things done. This nuanced view of politics reflects Ritchson’s broader philosophy on life, which prioritizes honesty and integrity.

The Temptation of Politics and a Decision to Stay Clear

Ritchson’s decision not to pursue a political career is revealing of his character and values. Despite his strong opinions about Gaetz and the political system, he chose to focus on his acting career, where he could express himself creatively and connect with audiences in a different way. Ritchson’s comments also highlight the challenges of entering politics, particularly for someone who values authenticity. He seems to believe that success in politics often requires a level of compromise or duplicity that he is unwilling to embrace. By staying out of politics, Ritchson has been able to maintain his personal integrity while still using his platform to speak out on issues he cares about. His candor about Gaetz serves as an example of his willingness to take a stand, even when it’s uncomfortable.

A Balanced Audience and the Importance of Staying True

Interestingly, Ritchson’s comments about Gaetz come at a time when his show Reacher has garnered a diverse audience. He noted that the fan base is nearly evenly split between men and women, as well as Democrats and Republicans. This balance reflects the broad appeal of the series and Ritchson’s ability to connect with people across different demographics. For Ritchson, staying true to oneself seems to be a guiding principle, both in his personal life and his career. His criticism of Gaetz can be seen as an extension of this philosophy, as he calls out what he sees as hypocrisy and a failure to act with integrity. By staying true to his values, Ritchson has built a reputation as an honest and relatable figure, both on and off the screen. His comments about Gaetz, while controversial, underscore his commitment to speaking his mind and standing up for what he believes in.

Contrasting Careers and Lingering Disdain

The lives of Alan Ritchson and Matt Gaetz represent two very different paths, one in entertainment and the other in politics. While Ritchson has achieved success as an actor, Gaetz’s career has been marred by scandal and controversy. Ritchson’s comments about his former classmate serve as a reminder of the lasting impact of personal history on our perceptions of others. His disdain for Gaetz is not just about their political differences but also about the personal animosity that has lingered since their high school days. Ritchson’s candor about their feud offers a rare glimpse into the complexities of human relationships and the ways in which past experiences can shape our present and future. While their careers may have taken different trajectories, the tension between them remains a testament to the enduring power of rivalry and the challenges of moving beyond the past.