Jonathan & Jesus

In a documentary that has Jesus in the title, one would expect a string of theologians and historians to weigh in. But this documentary is about Jonathan Roumie's experience in playing Jesus. Consequently, the breadth of this series is actually wider than the title might lead one to believe. In navigating the intersection of faith and fame, Roumie actually interviews several people, mostly musicians (because Roumie's first love might actually be music), who have had to learn how to live out their faith while being famous. Incidentally, Alice Cooper gives the best description of extreme fame during his segment that we should all keep in mind when it comes to celebrity culture.

Along with familiar celebrities, Roumie also speaks with faith leaders like Francis Chan and a missionary working with refugees in France as well as other faith leaders.

Alongside following Roumie's daily life, a sometimes fraught journey to meet the Pope, and an international promotional tour for The Chosen, the crew interviews people whose faith in Jesus has lead them to combat racism, sexism, and human trafficking. In dealing with fame and faith they interview psychologists and health experts, some of whom openly admit to being non-believers, which was a surprise in this production pointed squarely at The Chosen core audience.

The biggest surprise at the end is the video of a story that Roumie tells pretty much any time anyone asks him about how he got the role of Jesus in The Chosen. It is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness, but also illustrates why SAG-AFTRA went on strike partially due to how residuals were paid.

This is an excellent piece of work! I applaud Jonathan for his willingness to allow such vulnerable parts of himself to be shown. He is a kind and beautiful soul whose love for God shines through. The Chosen shows us Jonathan, the actor. This docuseries shows us Jonathan, the man. This has been long awaited by his fans, and it did not disappoint. It brought laughter and tears. It's a refreshing change from so much of the anti Christian content that is so prevalent these days. Jonathan Roumie does not shy away from exposing his devotion to God, and he encouraged the same boldness in others. Well done!

I have followed the rising career of Jonathan Roumie since 2019 when I first watched The Chosen. At the beginning of 2020 he began an online prayer group and I don't think I missed a single session, even though the practices of our Christian faith were different. That's one of the things Jonathan taught me. That opening my mind also opened my heart. This docudrama shows how hard he has worked and how the unexpected fame has affected him. I already knew he was walking a rocky path but I really had no idea how hard the struggles were. And in case you think the persona is all acting, you're wrong. I met him once in person and what you see in this documentary is exactly what you get. Jonathan Roumie is more than an accomplished actor - he's an extraordinary human being.

From the moment I saw Jonathan Roumie as Jesus in The Chosen, I knew there was something different in his portrayal which compelled me to know more. His powerful, emotional testimony of surrender, deeply changed my life in an instant. Since then, I've prayed with him and for him while followed his budding career. And can testify this docuseries is genuine Jonathan- continuously seeking a deeper walk and understanding of Jesus. His sole desire to honor God and incorporate his faith into every aspect of his craft continues as he maneuvers his growing fame. The docuseries is raw, genuine, intimate, and transparent, showing the true heart of a man of God, as he meets with musicians, scientists, those ministering to the homeless and fighting trafficking, seeking insight through their experiences. You can't watch this without wanting to be a better person. Beautifully crafted. A must see.

Fantastic docuseries about the blessings and pressures of playing Jesus. This series documents the journey of actor Jonathan Roumie, who portrays Jesus, the most famous man to walk this planet in the series The Chosen.

From his humble surrender to God asking for guidance, his acceptance of the role in The Chosen, to his visit with Pope Francis, the series shows a side of fame that few actors have achieved. How do you maintain your identity when many people actually think you ARE Jesus Christ?

Roumie's care and concern for playing this important role weighs heavily on him, and the series does a great job of illustrating just what it's like for a man go from struggling actor to being mistaken for the actual Son of God. A devout Catholic, Roumie exhibits his devotion and passion for his faith while also learning and praying for people of all denominations.

Filled with interviews from historians, religious experts and even Alice Cooper, the series is both entertaining and moving as it follows Roumie from place to place all around the world as he promotes The Chosen.

You don't have to be a fan of The Chosen to thoroughly enjoy the journey of a "regular guy" learn and grow as he is recognized more and more, not as himself, but as Jesus Christ.