Alan Ritchson marks a major milestone in his career: Netflix began implementing plans to expand the War Machine universe.
The actor, who stars in the sci-fi action film, shared a touching message with fans after it was announced that a sequel was officially in development.
The announcement comes as the film continues to post impressive viewing figures, cementing its status as one of the streaming giant's biggest hits and laying the groundwork for an even larger franchise.
Alan Ritchson shared an emotional reaction to the news of the series' continuation on Netflix.
Shortly after confirming that a second War Machine film was in the works, Alan Ritchson took to social media to thank everyone who helped make the project a global success.
«"What a momentous day. Many of you are now part of the War Machine world. It's incredible that we created it with you in mind," the actor wrote on Instagram.
Ritchson also took a moment to express his gratitude to the people who supported the project from the very beginning. He thanked director Patrick Hughes for bringing the idea to life, Lionsgate for believing in it, and Netflix for helping bring the film to audiences around the world.
«"A world that began with a dream Patrick Hughes cherished and fought for. A dream @lionsgate believed in, and for which @netflix built a home," he added.
The actor admitted that he remains grateful for the opportunity, noting that many people believed in him throughout the process.
Richson says the journey to creating War Machine is far from over.
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency/MEGA
While fans celebrated the news of a sequel, Ritchson reflected on what the role meant to him personally.
«"They all took a huge risk by trusting me, and I'm so grateful," he continued, adding, "I'm lucky to be able to suffer for you at 81 years old. Taking on such challenging roles gives me tremendous direction, and I'm grateful to be able to play a small part in it. Special thanks to the incredibly talented cast and crew.".
Ritchson concluded his address by promising that the franchise's future is just beginning, telling fans that they are "just getting started" as plans to expand the universe continue.
The announcement comes after War Machine reached an impressive milestone for Netflix. Since its release three months ago, the action-packed film has racked up 139 million views, making it one of the platform's top ten most-viewed films of all time.
Alan Ritchson has received more good news: the director hints at future plans.
Xavier Collin/Image Press Agency/MEGA
Ritchson wasn't the only one excited about the sequel announcement. Director Patrick Hughes recently announced that work on the next installment is already underway.
In an interview with the publication The Wrap Hughes said the team is already focused on moving forward as quickly as possible.
«"Keep enjoying life. I can't believe my eyes every day. If you had told me this when I was in film school, I'd be sitting here now, with this universe you've created, and it's exploding, it's incredibly popular, and people are begging for more," Hughes said.
While he declined to reveal specific plot details, the director hinted that the sequel is being carefully planned.
According to Hughes, the next installment will continue to expand the franchise's world while avoiding the obvious path fans might expect.
Richson cleared after shocking fight with neighbours caught on camera.
MEGA
Beyond his career, Alan Ritchson's name has been in the news frequently in recent months for other reasons. In March, the 43-year-old sparked a furious online backlash after getting into a physical altercation with his neighbor, Ronnie Taylor.
The dispute reportedly began after Taylor confronted the Reacher star about the speed and noise of his motorcycle in their neighborhood.
As The Blast reported, Taylor claimed to have approached Ritchson several times before the situation escalated into a physical confrontation.
The video shows the actor hitting Taylor while his children are nearby, but additional footage later emerged that appears to show a neighbor getting in Ritchson's way, causing him to crash his motorcycle and then push him.
Following an investigation that included witness statements and video evidence, Brentwood police determined that Richson acted in self-defense and announced that no criminal charges would be filed.
Authorities also said the movie star declined to press potential charges against Taylor, and prosecutors agreed to drop the case.
Alan Richson's neighbor has come forward after receiving alleged death threats.
SIB / KCS / MEGA
Several days after the incident, Ronnie Taylor said the public reaction was overwhelming. According to The Blast, he claimed to have received over 100 threatening messages after the video of the incident circulated online.
Taylor also claimed that some callers used hidden numbers and made disturbing remarks, including one man who allegedly said he wanted to see him "breathe out of a tube.".
He also said another caller threatened to confine him to a wheelchair. The messages were equally disturbing, Taylor explained, with one saying, "Die, die, die.".
Despite the threats, Taylor claimed he did not file a police report. He claimed an officer informally advised him to contact the authorities if he was truly concerned, but at the time, he believed many of the messages were from internet trolls reacting to the viral scandal.
The article "Alan Ritchson breaks silence after major Netflix decision" first appeared on The Blast.