Tyriq Withers Confronts the HIM Backlash
Tyriq Withers isn’t sweating the backlash to HIM, predicting its reputation will rise while praising Justin Tipping’s bold, steady hand behind the camera.
That killer trailer for the Jordan Peele-produced sports-horror flick 'HIM' had people buzzing. The movie itself? Critics tore it up. I wasn’t into it either, but Tyriq Withers was one of the bright spots. Now that it’s hitting physical media, more folks will finally check it out — probably with expectations calibrated to reality.
So, how is the cast taking the backlash?
Withers has been pretty candid about the negative reception. His read is that the movie’s messaging will land better over time and the audience will catch up. He might be onto something. Marlon Wayans recently went off on social media, comparing the rough rollout of 'HIM' to a few of his older movies that got warmer receptions down the road. It wouldn’t be the first time a buzzy trailer sold a divisive movie that found fans later.
The trailer that blew up (and perfect timing)
The first trailer for 'HIM' popped off online. That surge happened right as Withers was out promoting his role in the 'I Know What You Did Last Summer' reboot, which hit theaters this summer. Smart timing, whether by design or accident.
Withers isn’t slowing down
It’s been a big year for him, and it’s about to stay busy. Next up: he’s co-starring with Maika Monroe in the Colleen Hoover adaptation 'Reminders of Him'. That one’s locked for Valentine’s Day and just dropped a trailer.
What 'HIM' is actually about
Here’s the official setup: a young athlete gets invited to train with a legendary champion, and that hero worship takes a hard left into something darker. It’s sports ambition meets nightmare fuel.
- 'HIM' got hammered by critics, but the trailer crushed on social.
- Tyriq Withers stood out even for folks who didn’t like the movie.
- Withers thinks the film’s themes will click more over time; Marlon Wayans echoed that idea, pointing to late-blooming hits in his past.
- Withers was also on the big screen this summer in the 'I Know What You Did Last Summer' reboot.
- Next up: 'Reminders of Him' with Maika Monroe, landing on Valentine’s Day, trailer now out.
- Availability: 'HIM' is now on Digital and hits Blu-ray, 4K Ultra HD, and DVD on November 11, 2025.
Where to watch
'HIM' is streaming on Digital now. Physical copies roll out November 11, 2025 on Blu-ray, 4K Ultra HD, and DVD.
What did you think of 'HIM'? Sound off in the comments.