When it comes to action stars with chiseled physiques and commanding screen presence, Alan Ritchson and John Cena are frequently mentioned in the same breath. But for the Reacher star, the comparison isn’t always flattering—or rather, it’s a little too flattering. In a recent WIRED interview, Ritchson opened up with a hilariously self-deprecating complaint about being mistaken for Cena in public. His issue? Cena is just too nice.
In a segment where Ritchson tackled the internet’s most Googled questions about himself, one query triggered a story that revealed both his admiration and frustration with the former WWE superstar. With a wry smile, he recalled moments in places like Nordstrom where strangers would call out “John!” only to do a double take. “You know who people say I look like all the time? John Cena,” Ritchson said. “I don’t think we look that much alike.”
The ‘Problem’ With Cena’s Kindness
But the real punchline came when Ritchson admitted he wouldn’t even mind being confused with Cena if it weren’t for one minor, comedic drawback: John Cena is the nicest human being he’s ever met. “Disarmingly kind… it’s actually kind of annoying,” he joked, making it clear the frustration was born of admiration. “You’re not faking it. You’re seriously the nicest person I’ve ever met, and it makes me feel bad about myself. ‘Cause I feel like a monster after I talk to him.”
It’s the kind of comment only a fellow gym-hardened action hero could get away with. And it adds another layer to Cena’s already well-established reputation, not just as a wrestling legend but as a real-life hero. Cena holds the record for the most wishes granted through the Make-A-Wish Foundation—over 650 and counting. His warmth and generosity are legendary, and for someone like Ritchson, who operates in the same macho circles, that sincerity can be almost too much to handle.
Throwing Shade (Lovingly) at Other Action Icons
Ritchson didn’t stop at Cena. He also took the opportunity to throw some playful jabs at fellow action juggernauts Chris Hemsworth and Jason Momoa. While praising his stunt double Ryan Taryn, he teased, “He’s worked for guys like Hemsworth… boo! Momoa, boo! Me… yay!” He went on to jokingly claim he “stole” Taryn from Momoa while working on Fast X, and that Momoa never got him back. The entire bit was dripping with affection and a good dose of healthy ego.
These jests are part of what makes Ritchson such a refreshing presence in Hollywood. He’s built like a superhero but doesn’t take himself too seriously. His candid humor and storytelling have become part of his brand—something that adds nuance to his brutal but charming role as Jack Reacher.
Ritchson’s Real Commitment to the Role
Despite the jokes, Ritchson is far from soft when it comes to his work. He revealed that during the filming of the Reacher Season 2 finale, he insisted on doing his own stunts—against the advice of his team. That decision led to a serious injury and a day-and-a-half blackout. Yet even in that state, his focus was on his children, who were on set. “I had to tell my kids that I felt great, because they were on set, and I didn’t want them to think that, like, dad died and was going to not be okay,” he said.
Season 3 of Reacher is already streaming on Prime Video, and Ritchson’s dedication to physical and emotional authenticity continues to resonate with fans. His stories about Cena, Hemsworth, and Momoa only elevate his appeal, showing he’s as down-to-earth as he is ripped.
For now, fans can enjoy both the brawn and the banter. And as Ritchson himself put it, if you’re going to be mistaken for someone, at least make it the world’s kindest action star—even if it’s “kind of annoying.”
