Alan Ritchson and wife Catherine announce split after 20 years of marriage; earlier divorce filing comes to light

Alan Ritchson and his wife Catherine Ritchson are ending their marriage after twenty years. The couple has assured they will stay close and will focus on raising their three sons. The 43‑year‑old Reacher actor and Catherine announced the news in an Instagram statement on Saturday, September 12.

Ritchson and Catherine said they built their lives together and will keep sharing responsibility for their children, Calem, Edan and Amory. The pair described their chapter as one focused on friendship, mutual respect and co‑parenting. They also asked the public to give them space while they adjust to the change.

“Change is hard enough without the whole world weighing in,” they said in their statement, requesting privacy and compassion for their family.

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From high school sweethearts to a 20-year marriage

Ritchson and Catherine first met in school then reconnected years later when Catherine was at the University of Florida. According to PEOPLE they married on May 12, 2006.

Although they kept their relationship out of the spotlight of Ritchson's Hollywood career, Catherine often appeared with him at premieres and other public events. She has also always celebrated milestones in his career, such as the 2025 premiere of the season of Reacher.

In 2025, on their 19th wedding anniversary Ritchson posted a tribute to Catherine. The post highlighted how their marriage and family were the greatest achievements of his life. However, PEOPLE reported that Ritchson did not publicly celebrate their 20th wedding anniversary in May 2026.

Divorce filing reportedly came earlier

The separation announcement also follows an earlier reported divorce filing. TMZ, citing documents, said on September 12 that Ritchson filed for divorce in December. They eventually reconciled in March before deciding to separate.

For now Ritchson and Catherine have made clear that their three children remain their priority as they begin a new phase of their relationship.