Jonathan Roumie Says Labeling “The Chosen” as ‘Religious’ Is a ‘Disservice’: ‘A Gate Goes Down in People’s Minds’ (Exclusive)

Jonathan Roumie, the talented actor known for his portrayal of Jesus in the historical drama series, The Chosen, recently expressed his thoughts on how the show is perceived. In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Roumie shared that labelling The Chosen as a “religious” show could be misleading and may hinder certain viewers from engaging with the series.

Roumie, aged 50, believes that categorising the show as religious oversimplifies its true essence and could potentially discourage viewers who have reservations about religious content. He emphasised, “When you say religious, a gate goes down in people’s minds… and all of a sudden they will not watch it.” Instead, Roumie suggests that viewers approach the show with an open mind and appreciate it as a historical drama that explores the origins of a significant spiritual movement.

Despite garnering a massive viewership of 280 million worldwide, Roumie is keen on portraying The Chosen as a series that goes beyond religious boundaries. He noted, “It’s a historical drama that centers around the beginnings of this religious movement, this spiritual movement that irrevocably changed the world.” By highlighting the transformative impact the show has had on individuals, Roumie underscored that The Chosen has resonated with a diverse audience, including those who may not identify with organized religion.

Furthermore, Roumie revealed touching anecdotes about viewers finding solace, faith, and a renewed sense of spirituality through watching The Chosen. He shared stories of incarcerated individuals discovering faith, and others reconnecting with their beliefs after decades of spiritual detachment. The actor’s insight sheds light on how the series has the power to spark introspection and evoke profound emotions in its viewers.

Elizabeth Tabish, who portrays Mary Magdalene in The Chosen, echoed Roumie’s sentiments, expressing her astonishment at the show’s widespread acceptance. She acknowledged the show’s ability to bridge cultural and religious divides, appealing to a broad spectrum of audiences worldwide. The series’ ability to resonate with viewers from varying backgrounds showcases its universal themes of redemption, hope, and humanity.

In conclusion, Roumie hopes that The Chosen serves as a catalyst for meaningful conversations and self-reflection among its viewers. He emphasised, “What we’re trying to do is just point out, ‘Hey, this is an alternative to the reality you’re currently living in. What do you think of it?’” By inviting audiences to ponder on the narrative’s plausibility and relevance, the actor aims to inspire viewers to explore their beliefs and engage with the show’s message authentically.

As The Chosen continues to captivate audiences with its compelling storytelling and powerful performances, Roumie’s perspective offers a deeper understanding of the show’s impact beyond religious frameworks. The series’ ability to touch hearts, provoke thought, and foster a sense of connection underscores its significance as a cultural phenomenon that transcends traditional labels and genres.