The Cast And Filmmakers Of The Chosen Photo Reuters
The Chosen” Cast Makes Historic Vatican Visit Ahead of Season 5 International Release
Vatican City, June 24, 2025 – Jonathan Roumie, the acclaimed actor portraying Jesus Christ in the globally popular series “The Chosen,” made a significant visit to the Vatican on Monday, June 23, along with several of his co-stars. The visit precedes the international release of Season 5 of the series in July, with a special Vatican screening of an episode taking place during their stay.
Roumie was accompanied by Elizabeth Tabish (Mary Magdalene), George Xanthis (St. John the Apostle), and Vanessa Benavente (Mary, the Mother of God). Their presence at the Holy See marks a notable moment for the crowdfunding-backed show, which has garnered immense international attention for its portrayal of the life of Jesus.
“Coming to the Vatican is always an honour,” Roumie, a practicing Christian, told Reuters, expressing his anticipation for a meeting with the newly elected Pontiff. “The possibility of getting to meet the newest pontiff is extraordinary.”
The cast’s visit comes directly after completing an intensive three-week filming schedule for Season 6 in the ancient southern Italian town of Matera. Matera, known for its historic stone dwellings, served as a stunning backdrop for the depiction of Jerusalem, particularly for the crucifixion scenes. This location holds historical significance, having also been utilized by U.S. filmmaker Mel Gibson for his 2004 film, “The Passion of the Christ.”
“The Chosen” is a historical drama that meticulously chronicles the life of Jesus Christ, from the gathering of his disciples to his ultimate persecution by the Roman Empire. Season 5 of the series delves into pivotal events, including Jesus’s Last Supper with his disciples and other renowned biblical moments leading up to his death.
The series, which began with a crowdfunding initiative in 2017, has expanded its reach significantly, including a distribution deal with Amazon Prime Video. Its success continues to be supported by ongoing crowdfunding efforts and the non-profit Come and See Foundation.
A key highlight of the visit will be a meeting with Pope Leo XIV, the first U.S. pontiff, during his general audience in St. Peter’s Square on Wednesday, June 25. Roumie is expected to present Pope Leo XIV with a gift from “The Chosen” during this historic encounter. Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost in Chicago, was elected Pope on May 8, 2025, and holds dual citizenship with Peru and the United States, making him the first American-born pope. His papacy is seen as a significant moment for the global Catholic Church.
The theatrical release of “The Chosen” Season 5 episodes has already begun in the US, with episodes 1 and 2 released on June 15, episodes 3, 4, and 5 on June 22, and the final three episodes (6, 7, and 8) set for June 29 on Prime Video. International audiences can expect the release of episodes 1 and 2 on July 13, episodes 3 to 5 on July 20, and episodes 6 to 8 on July 27. The full Season 5 will be available for free on “The Chosen” App starting September 13, 2025, 90 days after its Prime Video debut.
The cast and director Dallas Jenkins held a press conference at the Vatican on June 23, where they discussed the emotional impact of portraying their characters and the show’s mission to bring Jesus Christ to the world in a tangible way. Roumie emphasized how being at the Vatican served as a “humbling honor” and a confirmation of the show’s continued mission.
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