Reacher season 3 episode 1, titled Persuader, premiered on February 20, 2025, and is available for streaming on Prime Video. Based on Lee Child's novel Persuader, the season follows Reacher as he faces new challenges and encounters past enemies.
Disclaimer: This article contains major spoilers from Reacher season 3. Reader's discretion is advised.
In Reacher season 3 episode 1, Reacher decides to place a "Do Not Disturb" hanger over the motel door's peephole. He ensures the threat by covering the peephole: if someone intends damage, they will probably shoot through the door.
Reacher put the door tag on the peephole at the motel in Reacher season 3 episode 1

In Reacher season 3 episode 1, the scene where Reacher puts the door tag over the motel room’s peephole is a calculated precaution. Reacher blocks the peephole with the "Do Not Disturb" hanger when he answers a knock at his door. This little deed helps him to evaluate whether the persons on the other side pose a threat.
Reacher's cautious nature
Reacher avoids revealing his position by covering the peephole and forces anyone outside to act first. This ensures that if the visitors are impostors or would-be assassins, they would likely shoot through the door.
Reacher can then respond accordingly. The hanger serves as a shield that allows him to evaluate the situation safely.
A smart move to prevent surprise attacks
The hanger over the peephole also buys Reacher time. If the attackers plan a deadly confrontation, they would likely act quickly, and Reacher can respond before they get the upper hand. His experience in dangerous situations has made him vigilant and ready for anything, even when it’s just a routine knock at the door.
How does the door hanger help with the tension?
This moment heightens the suspense in Reacher season 3 episode 1. It’s not just a precaution—it's a test. Reacher isn't sure who is on the other side, but by blocking the peephole, he forces the situation to unfold without putting himself directly in harm's way. It adds a layer of tension, allowing viewers to wonder if the knock at the door is the start of something deadly.
Plot of Reacher season 3
Reacher season 3 builds on the suspense and tension from the previous seasons, diving into Reacher's past and the current criminal network he's trying to dismantle. The season is based on Lee Child’s novel Persuader, where Reacher goes undercover to rescue a DEA informant trapped in a dangerous criminal network.
Throughout the season, Reacher confronts enemies from his past, including Francis Quinn, someone he thought he had killed years ago. This personal relationship complicates Reacher's mission since he has to negotiate a web of lies, treacheries, and violence.
As the narrative goes on, Reacher gets more involved in Beck's activities since he understands that lines separating friend from enemy are sometimes hazy.
Things are getting more dangerous as Reacher tries to protect the people around him and find the people causing all the trouble. Reacher's versatility, smarts, and fighting skills are tested as he faces new and old enemies. Through themes of loyalty, justice, and vengeance, the season is a thrilling ride from beginning to end.
Reacher season 3 episode 4 will air on February 27, 2025. Reacher season 3 episode 1, 2 and 3 are now available to stream on Prime Video.