Hartley Tackles the Waves in Transformative Role as Surfing Icon Rick “Rhino” Ryland
Justin Hartley is heading for uncharted territory—and the open ocean. The actor has signed on to star in the new biographical drama Rhino, where he will portray real-life surfing legend Rick Ryland, a.k.a. “Rhino,” a 1970s pioneer who revolutionized big-wave surfing while battling personal demons beneath the surface.
Best known for his roles in This Is Us and Tracker, Hartley now dives into what may be his most physically and emotionally demanding role yet. The film chronicles Ryland’s rise from a troubled teen in California’s foster system to an international surfing icon, culminating in his near-death experience during a 1983 storm at Waimea Bay that changed the course of his life.
From Scripted Drama to Real-Life Heroism
The screenplay, written by Oscar-nominated screenwriter Richard LaGravenese (Freedom Writers, The Fisher King), explores Ryland’s complicated legacy: a fearless waterman haunted by trauma, addiction, and fame. Hartley is said to have personally lobbied for the role after reading the early script, captivated by the story’s raw emotional depth.
“There was something magnetic about Rick’s story,” Hartley shared in a press release. “He was a man at war with the world and himself—and he found salvation in the most unpredictable place: the waves. It’s an honor to bring that journey to life.”
Training for the Role: Surfing, Stunts, and Spiritual Discovery
Hartley has already begun an intensive training regimen in Malibu, working with Ryland himself and surf coach Makua Rothman to prepare for the role. The actor has committed to performing many of his own surf stunts, including paddling out into deep water for extended takes filmed on location in Hawaii and the Gold Coast.
Insiders describe the film’s tone as a blend of The Fighter and Into the Wild, with meditative visual storytelling and high-intensity action sequences. It will also explore Ryland’s post-surfing years as a mentor and advocate for youth mental health and ocean conservation.
A Star-Studded Team Behind the Lens
Rhino will be directed by indie filmmaker Chloe Zhao, who won an Academy Award for Nomadland and has since been known for her ability to blend epic landscapes with intimate character stories. This marks her return to stripped-down human drama after her foray into Marvel’s Eternals.
Producers include Shaun White and Reese Witherspoon, who have praised Hartley’s commitment to the project. “Justin doesn’t just want to play Rick Ryland—he wants to become him,” said White. “He’s working with such passion and purpose. I think audiences will be blown away.”
Oscar Buzz and Early Acclaim
Though filming hasn’t yet begun, early buzz is building around Rhino as a potential awards contender for 2026. Hartley’s involvement has shifted public perception of his career—from television heartthrob to serious, risk-taking actor.
This marks a full-circle moment for Hartley, who grew up idolizing surfers and once considered becoming a professional athlete himself. “It feels like I’ve come home to something I never fully explored,” he told Men’s Health.
Rhino begins principal photography in November and is expected to premiere at the Venice or Toronto International Film Festival in late 2026.
Whether it earns gold statues or not, one thing is clear: Justin Hartley is paddling straight into a new chapter of his career—and he’s doing it on his own board.
