Keanu Reeves replaces Reacher star Alan Ritchson in Netflix hurricane thriller

Keanu Reeves is reportedly taking over from Reacher star Alan Ritchson in Netflix's upcoming action thriller Maelstrom, bringing fresh attention to a film that has spent more than 30 years struggling to reach the screen.

The John Wick actor is expected to lead the hurricane-set thriller, directed by Jaume Collet-Serra, whose previous Netflix film Carry-On starred Taron Egerton. Ritchson had entered talks for the role in July, but is no longer attached to the production.

Why has Alan Ritchson left Maelstrom?

There has been no official explanation for Ritchson's departure, with neither Netflix nor the actor publicly confirming why he is no longer involved.

His replacement comes just months after he was linked to the film, although Reeves' involvement could give the long-delayed project a significant boost as Netflix works towards production.

What is Netflix's Maelstrom about?

The story follows a federal marshal assigned to protect the fiancée of a dangerous arms dealer after she enters witness protection and agrees to testify against him.

Their situation becomes increasingly dangerous when a powerful hurricane cuts off communications and prevents reinforcements from reaching them. With the arms dealer's men closing in, the marshal must protect his witness while battling both the attackers and the worsening storm.

The film combines an isolated survival story with the kind of action thriller Reeves is known for, although further details about his character and the supporting cast have yet to be confirmed.

A Hollywood thriller more than 30 years in the making

Maelstrom was originally written by the late Gregory Fitzpatrick and sold to Warner Bros in 1993, when it was pitched as Die Hard set during a hurricane.

Despite attracting Hollywood interest, the film never entered production and remained undeveloped for decades before Netflix revived the project in 2026.

Jeff Robinov, who helped broker the original deal before becoming a senior Warner Bros executive, is now involved as a producer. Mark Bianculli is revising Fitzpatrick's original screenplay for the new adaptation.

The project also reunites Netflix with Collet-Serra following Carry-On, his 2024 thriller about an airport security officer facing a deadly threat on Christmas Eve.

When will Maelstrom be released on Netflix?

Netflix has not announced a release date or confirmed when filming will begin. Further casting details are also being kept under wraps, and Reeves' involvement has so far been reported rather than formally announced by the streaming service.

Meanwhile, Ritchson continues to lead Prime Video's Reacher franchise, which has expanded to include the spin-off Neagley.

Maelstrom is being developed for Netflix, with casting and production announcements still to come.