Mat Gaetz Strikes Back at Alan Ritchson: Hollywood Star vs. Controversial Politician

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Alan Ritchson, who is famously known for his role as Reacher and a resident of Florida, has ignited an online dispute with his former classmate Matt Gaetz, currently a congressman. This came after Ritchson criticized Gaetz for his supportive statements towards President Donald Trump. In response, Gaetz posted on X, an underwhelming retort that is in line with the unimpressive reactions commonly associated with Gaetz, who has been tainted by scandal.>

Ritchson and Gaetz, who were neighbors growing up in Florida and even attended the same school in Niceville, are now openly distancing themselves due to Gaetz’s political and personal actions. In an interview with GQ, Ritchson expressed his disapproval by saying: “We’re opponents. It’s surprising that the Florida panhandle still votes for someone like him, knowing all we know about him and the deals he’s supposedly made behind closed doors to pardon certain criminals – he’s just not a good person!” Ritchson further emphasized his feelings by adding, “That son of a gun,” to make his stance clear regarding Gaetz.

“In response, Gaetz posted two messages on X debunking Ritchson’s claims of a rivalry and suggesting that his statements were driven more by a thirst for limelight than genuine animosity. ‘Surprise! We weren’t enemies,'” Gaetz stated, looking back at their shared time in high school. He further noted that Ritchson was “always very cordial towards me (and everyone). It seems like Hollywood transformed him!” This commentary was followed by Gaetz’s slightly more assertive second post, which remarked, “He’s merely seeking Hollywood attention (not just through the use of steroids).”

A Growing Divide Between Right-Wing Politics and Hollywood

For years, Matt Gaetz has been Florida’s representative, reflecting in some aspects the conservative nature of the state. It’s not surprising that he’s facing criticism from Floridians who take pride in their home. Alan Ritchson’s anger was sparked by comments made by Gaetz suggesting that Donald Trump, should he be convicted, might pardon himself and other criminals. However, Gaetz has also been subject to severe criticism following an allegation by the House Ethics Committee that he breached several ethical standards by partaking in activities such as prostitution, statutory rape, illicit drug use, abusing privileges, obstructing Congress, or offering special favors.

Gaetz isn’t unique among politicians endorsed by Trump in facing criticism from notable figures in Hollywood. Ever since the start of the Trump presidency, numerous celebrities have openly criticized his policies. Late-night hosts like Jimmy Kimmel, John Oliver, and Stephen Colbert haven’t held back in their critiques, targeting everything from Trump’s hairstyle to his apparent ineptitude. Additionally, other celebrities have publicly expressed their sadness and concern over certain actions of the Trump administration, such as mass deportations.

Gaetz’s remarks, though, highlight how disconnected some politicians can be from Hollywood. His claim that Ritchson is merely criticizing him for attention disregards:
1. The widespread criticism and controversy surrounding many of Gaetz’s actions and statements.
2. The fact that Ritchson’s popularity doesn’t rely on publicity, as evidenced by his successful ongoing series “Reacher” on Prime Video, which boasts a 95% score on Rotten Tomatoes, and the upcoming fourth season of the college football comedy “Blue Mountain State.”

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2025-02-22 01:02