Alan Ritchson has responded to criticism surrounding his role in War Machine. He has pushed back against claims that he was “too old” to portray a RASP soldier. Addressing the remarks in a social media video, the actor called out the criticism while referencing new changes to enlistment rules.
Alan Ritchson responds to War Machine ‘haters’
Alan Ritchson has responded directly to criticism surrounding his role in War Machine, addressing comments about his age in a video shared on Instagram. Referring to the backlash, the actor repeated what he had seen online, saying, “Where are my haters at? All the War Machine haters, people that watch that movie and up in the comments, ‘he’s too old to be playing a soldier.’”
He followed that by pointing to a recent change in U.S. Army policy, adding, “Well, guess what? Guess what, U.S, just raised the enlistment age to what? 42.” Referencing the revised enlistment cap, which has been increased from 35 to 42, Ritchson laughed at the criticism. It is set to take effect on April 20.
The actor concluded his response by suggesting that War Machine may have anticipated such developments, describing the film as “prophetic.” The actor concluded his response by suggesting that War Machine may have anticipated such developments, describing the film as “prophetic”
The discussion comes as the film continues to perform on Netflix, where it was released on March 6, 2026. The project follows a group of Army Ranger recruits during a high-intensity training exercise that escalates when they encounter a deadly, technologically advanced threat. Ritchson plays a leading role as the group navigates the situation.
Other cast members include Dennis Quaid as Sergeant Major Sheridan, Stephan James as Staff Sergeant 7, Esai Morales as First Sergeant Torres, and Keiynan Lonsdale as 60 among others.
