Alan Ritchson regrets losing role of 'Thor' to Chris Hemsworth, admits he 'didn't take it seriously'

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Alan Ritchson recently reflected on his missed opportunity to star as MCU's Thor in the movie of the same name.

In a candid interview for Men's Health's March cover story, the 41-year-old actor talked about his audition for 'Thor' which he approached with a sense of complacency.

Alan Ritchson says he felt 'nobody cares about acting'

Recounting his audition for 'Thor', the 2011 film that was part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Ritchson said he did not give the audition his all as he believed his looks were enough to land the part.

"I didn't take it seriously. I was like, 'They'll throw me the part if I look like the guy; nobody really cares about acting,'" he said while talking about the audition.

The casting team later conveyed to his representatives that he was not able to show that he had "the craft," leaving Ritchson tormented for several years.

The part ultimately went to Chris Hemsworth, who was a newcomer at the time.

Despite this setback, he has carved out a successful acting career in television through his roles, including Hank Hall/Hawk in 'Titans' and Aquaman in 'Smallville'.

Reflecting on his leading role in 'Reacher' which has gained widespread acclaim, he said, "I had about 50 offers the weekend after season 1 of Reacher opened. I knew my life had changed."

Despite the success of the Prime Video series, Ritchson remains grounded as he acknowledges the need for patience in Hollywood.

"The industry's funny. It can't be relied on. You have to be very patient with it," he said.

Alan Ritchson opens up about his mental health struggles

Ritchson further reflected on learning to manage his bipolar disorder both at work and in his everyday life.

His journey with bipolar disorder began when he was diagnosed with it at the age of 36.

The actor shared that his psychiatrist tries to detect any symptoms every week, while his wife Catherine Ritchson and his assistant help him analyze how to manage any episodes.

He shared that while he experiences more manic episodes than depressive periods, he remains committed to managing his condition on set.

"When I'm feeling depressed, it doesn't really matter, because I am so focused at work. I could go weeks without people even knowing I feel a certain way," said Ritchson.

"When I'm manic and I feel like something isn't living up to its best potential, it usually comes out in a very -- not in a mean way -- but in a 'this has to be better' way. Like a very, almost obsessive 'this has to be better,'" he added.