Playing Jesus in THE CHOSEN (Jonathan Roumie) | Ep. 482
Aug 27, 2024
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Jonathan Roumie, known for his role as Jesus in The Chosen, dives into the complexities of fame and personal identity. He shares his spiritual journey from Greek Orthodox to Catholic, enriched by divine moments while acting. The conversation highlights the challenges of portraying Jesus authentically, balancing humanity and divinity, and connecting with diverse audiences. Roumie also discusses overcoming personal struggles and the importance of faith in the creative process, ultimately underscoring the transformative power of surrendering to faith.
Jonathan Roumie reflects on the humorous challenges of early interviews, emphasizing grace and humility in overcoming mistakes during conversations.
He discusses the pressures of portraying Jesus, including the need for personal solitude while addressing the demands of public recognition.
Roumie recounts his impactful meeting with Pope Francis, which bolstered the show's global appeal and demonstrated its profound audience connection.
He shares insights on the supportive atmosphere among cast members, highlighting how diverse faith backgrounds foster authenticity and respect on set.
Deep dives
The Journey of Remembrance
The initial conversation reflects on the host's first interview with Jonathan Rumi, the actor who portrays Jesus in a popular series. This interview was memorable due to a humorous mishap where Rumi's microphone was muted, leading to a one-sided conversation. The importance of humility and grace in the face of mistakes is highlighted, with Rumi expressing gratitude for the opportunity to come back on the show despite the awkwardness. This anecdote serves as a reminder of the chaotic nature of their lives and how personal connections help recall significant past experiences.
Navigating Fame and Connection
Rumi discusses the challenges of navigating fame and the expectations that come with portraying a religious figure like Jesus. He shares feelings of being overwhelmed by the requests and reactions from fans, as well as the necessity of balancing personal solitude with social engagement during appearances. The conversation also touches on the unique difficulty of conveying experiences related to fame, as very few can relate to such levels of public recognition. These insights reveal the tension between seeking authentic personal time and the demands of interacting with the public.
A Transformational Encounter
A significant turning point in Rumi's career occurred when he met Pope Francis in 2021, which solidified the show's global appeal. Following the pandemic, the show was released for free, which catalyzed its increase in popularity, with Rumi recounting the remarkable experience of witnessing the enthusiastic response from fans. This moment marked a realization of the show's impact, highlighting how art can inspire and connect audiences universally. The interaction with the Pope further underscores the profound responsibility felt by Rumi and the team in portraying a character that resonates so deeply with global audiences.
The Weight of Celebrity
Rumi acknowledges the unique pressures and burdens that come with being recognized as Jesus, noting his responsibility to remain genuine while interacting with fans. He comments on the importance of authenticity in these interactions, with fans often longing for comfort and connection due to their personal experiences. He compares his fame to that of other celebrities and shares the emotional weight of these encounters, emphasizing that the role requires navigating spirituality amid public persona. This complexity demonstrates the fine line that public figures walk between celebrity and genuine connection with their audience.
Spiritual Warfare and Growth
The conversation delves into Rumi's faith journey, which intensified with his casting as Jesus, leading to increased awareness of spiritual warfare. He reflects on how playing such a prominent religious figure has exacerbated the challenges of spiritual attacks but has also deepened his prayer life. Rumi shares that engagement with the rosary and meditative prayers have been crucial in maintaining his mental and emotional well-being. These reflections reveal how one's vocation can intertwine with personal faith, influencing the approach to life's challenges.
Community on Set
Rumi highlights the supportive atmosphere on the set of the series, where open discussions regarding faith and spirituality can occur without conflict. He indicates that while cast members come from diverse religious backgrounds, they share a mutual respect and love that fosters a cohesive working environment. This sense of community amplifies the authenticity of their portrayals and collectively nurtures their commitment to the scriptural narratives being presented. Having an inclusive dynamic serves as a foundation that ultimately enhances the overarching goal of portraying the story of Jesus.
Shifts in Production Quality
As the series has grown in popularity, Rumi discusses notable improvements in production quality and artistic elements in newer seasons. The introduction of advanced techniques such as backdrops and more elaborate sets signifies a commitment to creating a visually engaging narrative grounded in historical accuracy. With these enhancements, the team aims to produce content that resonates richly with both fans of the series and newcomers to the gospel stories. This evolution showcases the ongoing dedication to delivering a compelling retelling of Jesus's life that captures both the grandeur and intimacy of the moment.
Jonathan Roumie is an American actor known for his portrayal of Jesus in the crowd-funded television series The Chosen. Born on July 1, 1974, Roumie has also played the role of evangelist Lonnie Frisbee in the 2023 film Jesus Revolution. Beyond acting, he is a voice artist and a public speaker. He holds a degree in film from the School of Visual Arts and was awarded an honorary doctorate in fine arts by the Catholic University of America for his impactful work in evangelization through acting. His dedication to his craft and his role as Jesus have made him a fascinating figure in the entertainment industry.
