REACHER series star Alan Ritchson says he wrote a letter to Tom Cruise when he took on the role, but it didn’t go well

The second season of the hit Prime series Reacher hit the streamer last week with the first three episodes released for fans to enjoy. The star of the show, Alan Ritchsonplayed the part, based on the thriller book series of Lee Child, after fans were less than thrilled with the actor’s casting Tom Cruise in the two films based on the novels.

While Cruise is a beloved actor who has proven his status as an action star time and time again, fans were unhappy because the character is described as a giant, extremely tall, muscular man, and Cruise simply didn’t fit the bill. So when Ritchson was cast, the future of the character’s portrayal on screen seemed a little more exciting for fans, who were ready to dive in and start over with the new star. But before he could get on with the job, Ritchson wanted to write a letter to Cruise thanking him for passing the baton. He explained in an appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live (via CB):

“I wrote a letter to Tom. I wrote him a heartfelt letter. Because here’s the thing, I know what you know. He got some criticism for the role, because aesthetically he doesn’t quite fit the role of Reacher, according to the books. This guy still made two movies that grossed over $300 million, and that’s not even good. He brought so many eyes to this series. Without it we wouldn’t be as successful as we are. So, in gratitude, I write him a loving, heartfelt letter, a page-long letter, and give it to Don Granger, his partner at Skydance. My boss. Skydance produces the show.”

Ritchson continued:

“I said, ‘I think we should give him this.’ I want him to know, I’m grateful that he’s passing the baton and, you know, he gave me his blessing and everything. And he said, “We’re not going to give it to him. It’s a terrible idea. “He’s okay with that. Because he’s moved on in life. He’s moved on. And you have to move on too.” I said it in the paper and yet the paper never reached Tom.”

The actor then decided to address Cruise through the camera, saying:

“I’m very grateful to you for passing the baton to me on Reacher and helping me become what I’ve become with the eyes that you brought to the show. So I just want you to know that that was a version of my letter. There’s a a few “I love yous”, a couple of photos together, but leave it there.”

I’m happy the actor finally got to tell Cruise what he meant. Let’s hope the actor sees it! The 8 episode second season of Reacher will continue to air new episodes on Prime Video on Fridays, with the finale debuting on Friday, January 19, 2024.