Hallmark star Ryan Paevey, 39, has opened up about his recent decision to step away from acting, citing personal and professional challenges that have deeply affected his mental health. In an exclusive statement to Heavy on June 21, Paevey shared his reasons for taking a break from the spotlight and revealed why fans won’t see him on screen this year.
“I’ve always been an open book and someone who speaks his mind truthfully and directly,” Paevey began. “It’s unfortunate that in today’s world, social media makes it easy for words to be twisted. Often, I don’t even realize it’s happening until someone from my team contacts me in a panic. That’s why I feel it’s important to make a formal statement.”
Struggles Behind the Scenes
Paevey explained that stepping back from acting was a decision he’s been contemplating for some time, a move that has proven essential in recent weeks. “The industry hasn’t felt like the right place for me for quite a while now, and it’s taken a toll on my mental health,” he confessed. “It’s brought me to a dark place and made me into a version of myself that I don’t like. I’ve expressed my frustration publicly at times, and for that, I apologize.”
The Fourth Down and Love actor acknowledged that while he’s had many successful years in the industry, the past year has been especially difficult. “The waters have been much rougher recently. I know I’m not alone in this—nearly everyone in Hollywood, and around the world, is going through challenging times to some degree.”
Personal Setbacks and a Family Crisis
On top of his professional struggles, Paevey has faced significant personal setbacks. He revealed that his bank accounts were hacked, money was embezzled, and investments were stolen. “Those are things you can recover from,” he said, “but what hit me the hardest was when my mother was diagnosed with lung cancer.”
Paevey made the decision to leave Los Angeles and move closer to his family, devoting more of his time, energy, and resources to be by his mother’s side during her treatment.
Gratitude Amid the Challenges
Despite the recent hardships, Paevey remains optimistic and thankful for the career and life he’s built. “It’s not all bad news,” he assured fans. “I have so much to be grateful for.”
Paevey expressed deep appreciation for the opportunities that have come his way over the years. “I’m grateful to the industry as a whole, to General Hospital for giving a green actor a chance and tolerating my learning curve, and to Hallmark for changing my life. They’ve taken me to places that have become some of my favorite in the world.”
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He also took a moment to acknowledge his team and supporters. “To my managers, for seeing potential in someone with no resume and helping shape a new path for me, and to all of you, my fans, who have lifted me up over the past decade. I’ve been on an incredible adventure that I never could have imagined.”
Though Paevey’s future in acting remains uncertain, one thing is clear: he’s focused on healing, family, and gratitude for the journey he’s had so far.
