Actor Alan Ritchson recently spoke in an interview with The Hollywood Reporter about his experiences with sexual assault and bipolar disorder. Ritchson mentioned his days as a model, during which he claims that “If you’re hired on a job, you’re basically being passed off to a photographer to be trafficked.” Ritchson stated that he was sexually assaulted during a photo shoot and chose to quit modeling as a result.
After departing from modeling, Ritchson went on to star in various television shows, including Smallville as Aquaman, Blue Mountain State, and Titans. Ritchson revealed in the interview that after ending a business relationship, he experienced a suicide attempt in 2019. The actor stated, “I hung myself. It all happened so fast, and I was dangling there” but ultimately was saved by thoughts of his children.
Ritchson was diagnosed with bipolar disorder after the suicide attempt. The experience gave him a “new perspective on life,” Ritchson explained, and forced him to reconsider the meaning and purpose of life. He concluded that “our purpose in life is, without qualification, to make the world a better place and serve others.”
Ritchson’s experiences speak to ongoing issues within the entertainment industry and mental health. After speaking about his struggles with sexual assault and mental health, it is clear that Ritchson hopes to use his experiences to help others. For anyone struggling with similar issues, resources such as Help Musicians UK, Young Minds, and The Samaritans offer 24-hour confidential support.
Note: This article contains references to suicide and sexual assault. For help, advice, or more information regarding sexual harassment, assault, and rape, visit the Rape Crisis charity website. In the US, visit RAINN
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