From Screen to Spirit: How “The Chosen” is Drawing Even Atheists to Faith, Says Star Jonathan Roumie
Jonathan Roumie, the actor whose heartfelt portrayal of Jesus Christ has captivated millions in the global phenomenon The Chosen, reveals the series’ impact is transcending entertainment and sparking profound spiritual awakenings—even among those who once rejected faith. While promoting a 25-day Advent prayer challenge on ABC’s The View, Roumie shared that he consistently encounters testimonies from viewers whose lives have been radically changed, including from self-identified atheists who credit the show with guiding them toward a belief in God. These aren’t just ratings numbers; they are personal stories of transformation, relayed directly to Roumie through social media, where fans detail how the intimate, human depiction of Jesus broke through their skepticism.
The power of The Chosen, according to Roumie, lies in its ability to bypass doctrinal debates and present the gospel narratives as a compelling, relational story. By depicting Jesus and his disciples with deep humanity, humor, and emotional complexity, the series makes the ancient text accessible and irresistibly engaging to a modern audience. This approach, Roumie suggests, allows viewers—regardless of their starting point—to encounter Christ not as a distant theological concept, but as a tangible, compassionate figure. As the cast films what Roumie calls one of the hardest seasons yet, these real-world testimonies fuel the production, reminding everyone involved that their work is more than art; it’s become a unique vessel for hope and a surprising, powerful gateway to faith for seekers around the world.
