Alan Ritchson’s acting career could receive a boost following his current high-profile altercation with his neighbor, according to a PR expert.
Eric Schiffer, president of the Los Angeles-based firm Reputation Management Consultants, spoke exclusively with Page Six after the “Reacher” star was caught on camera fighting with a neighbor in Tennessee over the weekend.
“This is not the kiss of death and it’s not going to kill Alan’s career,” Schiffer said.
The branding expert noted that police determined Ritchson was acting in self-defense, so “he’s not going to be assaulted in his own city.”
“The dump feeds the ‘Reacher’ machine because viewers love fighters and hate cowards,” Schiffer noted.
“This is the same solid authenticity that his brand sells, and a street-level reminder that his tough-guy persona is not for rent.”
Ritchson specifically plays Jack Reacher, a renowned ex-military agent turned drifter who upholds justice wherever he goes, in the Amazon Prime series.
As for whether the scuffle will hurt chances for brand deals or partnerships, Schiffer said he’s not sure.
“The brand trader cares whether he looks dangerous to the brand. Self-protection is what removes all the poison,” he said. “This is no rat poison for sponsors, it just strengthens his case.”
Overall, Schiffer believes this incident will only improve his image.
“His image was built on toughness, and this strengthens it rather than watering it down,” Schiffer said.
“The Reacher myth is strengthened because audiences like to see actors actually running amok outside of their trailers,” he said. “He might lose some of the sophisticated Hollywood points with the elite, but he might gain a truckload of huge street cred.”
Ritchson, 43, was caught getting into an argument with Ronnie Taylor on the street in a quiet neighborhood in Brentwood, Tennessee, on Sunday.
Body camera footage shows Taylor approaching Ritchson about the noisy motorcycle. The two got into an argument, and Ritchson was seen punching Taylor and driving off on his motorcycle.
At the time, the “Smallville” alum was joined by two other kids who also rode motorcycles.
Taylor claimed in an interview with TMZ that the actor “kicked the crap out of” him.
“Then on Sunday, as I was cleaning my bike outside my house, he rode past me once or twice, and the second time I stepped in front of him and I said, ‘You’ve got to stop. Someone’s going to get hurt,'” Taylor told the outlet.
“Then things escalated quickly from there,” he added. “He came towards me on his bicycle, so I pushed him.”
Authorities confirmed Tuesday that Ritchson acted in self-defense and the incident was closed. Ritchson will not face criminal charges.
“After reviewing the available evidence, including video footage and witness statements, authorities have determined that no criminal charges will be filed. Mr. Ritchson’s actions were determined to be in self-defense,” Brentwood Police Department Lt. Stephen Peppin told The Hollywood Reporter.
However, lawyers told Page Six that Richmon could face a civil lawsuit from a disgruntled neighbor.
Richman broke his silence Wednesday by sharing a poignant message on his Instagram.
“It’s great to be back in the booth after a really crazy week!” he captioned a video of himself on the set of the show.
“This is the end of post-production — #Reacher Season 4,” he added.
