: "Humbled by the Honor": 'The Chosen' Star Jonathan Roumie Visits the Vatican
INTRODUCTION: In a remarkable moment of faith and art, American actor Jonathan Roumie, who portrays Jesus in the popular television series "The Chosen," visited the Vatican this week, describing the experience as a "humbling honor." Roumie, accompanied by castmates and series creator Dallas Jenkins, was in Rome following the completion of filming for Season 6 of the show, which brings the life of Jesus to the small screen.
KEY POINTS AND ANALYSIS
: During a press conference at the Vatican on June 23, Roumie expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to visit the holy city, stating that it was a testament to the show's mission of spreading the message of Jesus Christ. The actor, who is Catholic, will also present Pope Leo XIV with a gift from "The Chosen" during the Wednesday general audience on June 25, a meeting he described as "extraordinary for so many reasons." Roumie's emotional response to the Pope's election – "I wept, because I never thought I'd see an American pope in my lifetime" – highlights the significance of this encounter. Meanwhile, series director Jenkins, an evangelical Protestant, emphasized the importance of making the events and people depicted in religious artwork feel real to viewers. "Jesus is more than a painting, and the church is more than just a building," he said. "Jesus and the apostles were not just stained-glass windows, but Jesus became man … and these men and women actually lived and actually had a relationship with Jesus … something we can have today."
CONTEXT AND BACKGROUND INFORMATION
: "The Chosen" is a streaming series based on the life of Jesus, with a unique approach to storytelling that has resonated with audiences worldwide. The show's creators have been praised for their commitment to accuracy and historical research, resulting in a portrayal of Jesus that is both authentic and relatable. Roumie's performance as Jesus has been widely acclaimed, earning him a devoted fan base. The Vatican visit coincides with the upcoming release of Season 5, Episode 4, "The Same Coin," which will be streamed at the Vatican's Filmoteca theater on June 23. The entire season is set to become available for streaming in Italy in July.
CONCLUSION OR FUTURE IMPLICATIONS
: Roumie's visit to the Vatican marks a significant milestone in the journey of "The Chosen," solidifying its position as a powerful tool for evangelization and faith formation. As the show continues to inspire audiences worldwide, this encounter serves as a poignant reminder of the power of art to bring people closer to their faith. With the release of new episodes on the horizon, fans of the show can expect more thought-provoking and emotionally charged storytelling, further cementing "The Chosen" as a beacon of hope and inspiration in the world of television.