Jonathan Roumie, who plays Jesus on the groundbreaking television series “The Chosen,” may have originally signed on to a new acting role years ago, but with the show’s immense popularity and growing fanbase, he’s now he’s become more of a brand ambassador. On the heels of season four, releasing in theaters this week, the actor and director has participated in a nationwide media blitz, sharing the message of the show on major media outlets.
Although he previously appeared in parts in television shows such as “Chicago Med,” “The Mindy Project,” “The Good Wife” and “Law & Order,” Jesus is the role that propelled Roumie into the cultural zeitgeist and has endeared him to legions of new viewers, including Pope Francis. Many feel more than an admiration for his acting; they also have a spiritual connection to the one portraying a historic and religious figure so sacred in their lives. Roumie doesn’t take that responsibility lightly.
“For me, it’s been it’s been such a gift,” he said. “It’s the gift that keeps on giving, really. I’m just grateful to continue to lend my voice to the character of Jesus in the series. And I’m humbled every time somebody comes up to me and say that the show has changed their perspective changed their life, in some situations, in some way or another, and that God is using the series to reach people. I try to remain just a humble servant and serve Him in this way and do whatever I need to do to make that happen.”
The rapid fame was “challenging,” he admits, but he’s worked through it by staying “prayed up and connected to my faith.” He even made a documentary, “Jonathan and Jesus,” which explores that rise to fame and the reactions from others.
“Whatever God throws my way, I’ll be able to handle it, as long as He’s with me,” he said.
Season four, which continues the story of Jesus’ earthly ministry, is officially the halfway point of the show’s seven season run. Being identified as the Son of God longer than most other actors, does Roumie ever think about the time when he’ll hang up the robe and sandals and perhaps return to more modern characters?
“I’ll probably take a different turn once the seasons are done, just to reset and refresh and just kind of disconnect,” he said. That doesn’t mean a disconnect from faith or “anything crazy,” he says, but just a chance to refocus and allow God to lead him into the next step.
“I have to wait and see, when I get to that point, see what God has in front of me,” he said. “Either way, I leave it to Him to decide. He’s really my agent.”
Episodes 1-3 of “The Chosen” Season Four, created and directed by Dallas Jenkins and produced by Jenkins, Derral Eaves and Brad Pelo, premieres Thursday, February 1 in theaters through Fathom Events. Episodes 4-6 will premiere February 15 and episodes 7-8 will release February 29. For more information or to purchase tickets, click here.
Watch an exclusive interview with DeWayne Hamby and Jonathan Roumie below.
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