Alan Ritchson has built a reputation as a formidable action star, thanks to his towering presence in Reacher and hits like War Machine. But his latest streaming success, Ordinary Angels, reveals a softer side that fans are embracing. The film has climbed to #8 on Paramount+'s top 10 list, according to FlixPatrol, proving that Ritchson's appeal extends far beyond explosive set pieces.
Directed by Jon Gunn, Ordinary Angels is set in 1994 Louisville, Kentucky, and tells the true story of hairdresser Sharon Stevens (Hilary Swank) who rallies her community to help widowed father Ed Schmitt (Ritchson) save his critically ill 5-year-old daughter during a devastating snowstorm. It's a far cry from the military operatives and vigilantes Ritchson usually plays, showcasing his emotional depth and vulnerability.
While the film earned a modest $20.5 million at the box office against a $15 million budget, it has found a second life on streaming. Critics have given it an 84% score on Rotten Tomatoes, while audiences rave with a 99% approval rating. This word-of-mouth success has turned Ordinary Angels into a must-watch for fans who want to see Ritchson in a gentler role.
Ritchson's 2024 also included War Machine on Netflix, a sci-fi actioner that became a breakout hit with 125.2 million views in two months. He played 81, a military engineer training to become an Army Ranger in memory of his lost brother. The film's emotional core and Ritchson's understated performance resonated globally, and a sequel is reportedly in discussion. Lionsgate's film head Adam Fogelson has hinted that Netflix may have the opportunity to host a follow-up, though nothing is official yet.
He also showed his comedic chops in Playdate, a buddy action film with Kevin James where he played a stay-at-home dad. Director Luke Greenfield cleverly subverted Ritchson's action-hero image, giving it a naive spin that delighted audiences. These diverse roles highlight Ritchson's versatility, making him one of the most interesting actors working today.
Meanwhile, fans are eagerly awaiting his return as Jack Reacher in Season 5 of the hit series, which has already been greenlit. If you're looking for more Ritchson content, Ordinary Angels is streaming now on Paramount+. For those who love action, check out Netflix's 'My Dearest Assassin', a John Wick-style thriller arriving in May 2026. And if you're in the mood for a hidden gem, Prime Video's 'Sneaky Pete' is a must-watch crime drama.
Ritchson's ability to balance action, comedy, and heartfelt drama makes him a rare talent. Ordinary Angels is proof that he's more than just a tough guy—he's an actor with range. Stream it now before it leaves Paramount+ in May 2026.
