/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/10/17/feature-mel-gibson-passion-of-the-christ-2025-10-17-13-22-23.png)
Mel Gibson's long-awaited sequel to 'The Passion of the Christ,' titled 'The Resurrection of the Christ,' is officially moving forward—but with an entirely new cast. The film, produced by Gibson's Icon Productions and distributed by Lionsgate, will feature Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen in the role of Jesus, replacing Jim Caviezel, who portrayed the character in the 2004 original.
According to reports, Caviezel, now 57, would have required extensive digital de-ageing for the sequel, which begins just three days after the crucifixion. Instead of relying on heavy visual effects, the production team opted to recast the role with a younger actor.
More Recasts in 'The Passion of the Christ' Sequel
The casting shake-up doesn't stop there. Mariela Garriga, best known for her roles in 'Mission: Impossible–Dead Reckoning Part One,' and 'The Final Reckoning,' will take over as Mary Magdalene, a character previously played by Monica Bellucci.
/filters:format(webp)/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/10/17/mel-gibson-passion-of-the-christ1-2025-10-17-13-22-23.webp)
Image Courtesy: Variety
Kasia Smutniak joins the cast as Mary, while Pier Luigi Pasino will portray Peter and Riccardo Scamarcio takes on the role of Pontius Pilate. Veteran actor Rupert Everett has also joined the ensemble in an undisclosed role.
'The Passion of the Christ' Was a Global Success
The original 'The Passion of the Christ' was a massive global success, grossing over $610 million worldwide on a $30 million budget. It became the highest-grossing independent film and one of the most financially successful religious movies ever made, earning three Academy Award nominations for cinematography, score, and makeup.
/filters:format(webp)/indigomusic/media/media_files/2025/08/06/the-passion-of-the-christ-2025-08-06-11-54-53.jpg)
Image Courtesy: IMDb
Two decades later, Gibson's 'The Passion of the Christ' follow-up aims to expand on the spiritual and supernatural themes of the first film. The director has hinted that 'The Resurrection of the Christ' will explore events beyond the physical world, delving into realms such as Heaven, Hell, and Sheol. The script reportedly takes a bold and visionary approach, blending biblical storytelling with mystical elements.
In August, Lionsgate announced that the project would be split into two films:
- 'The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One,' set to release on 26th March 2027 (Good Friday)
- 'The Resurrection of the Christ: Part Two,' premiering on 6th May 2027 (Ascension Day)
With new faces, ambitious storytelling, and Gibson once again behind the camera, 'The Resurrection of the Christ' aims to capture both the emotional depth and epic scale that made the original a cultural phenomenon.
