Actor Milo Ventimiglia shared how diving into work helped him heal after losing his home in the devastating Los Angeles fires earlier this year. The ‘This Is Us’ star, known for his role as Jack Pearson, recounted his experience of finding solace in acting while dealing with personal tragedy. Ventimiglia, along with his wife Jarah Mariano, was one of the many individuals affected by the wildfires that ravaged the Los Angeles area in January. Despite facing such a difficult time, Ventimiglia delved into his role in ‘I Can Only Imagine 2’, describing it as a transformative experience.
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Ventimiglia portrays Tim Timmons, a real-life singer and songwriter, in the upcoming sequel to the 2018 film. The movie is based on the true story behind MercyMe’s inspirational song “Even If”, showcasing Timmons’ journey of resilience and hope amid battling cancer. Ventimiglia expressed his admiration for Timmons’ unwavering positivity and grace in the face of adversity, emphasizing how portraying such a character was a unique and fulfilling opportunity for him as an actor.
The actor credited the film’s directors, Andy Erwin and Brent McCorkle, with offering him the option to take a break from filming to focus on his personal situation. However, Ventimiglia chose to immerse himself in the project, believing that throwing himself into work was the best way for him to cope with the challenges he was facing. Ventimiglia reflected on the healing process he underwent while playing a character who embodied strength and gratitude, qualities that resonated with his own struggles following the loss of his property in the fires.
Throughout his time on set, Ventimiglia found camaraderie with his co-stars, including John Michael Finley, Sophie Skelton, and veteran actor Trace Adkins. He shared a particularly poignant connection with Adkins, as both had experienced the pain of losing their homes to fires. Ventimiglia described how they bonded over their shared experiences, highlighting the sense of empathy and understanding that flourished among the cast members during the filming of ‘I Can Only Imagine 2’.
The actor expressed his desire for the film to convey a message of goodness and compassion to its audience. Ventimiglia believed that amidst life’s struggles, focusing on acts of kindness and love could make a significant impact on individuals and communities. By portraying a character like Tim Timmons, who exuded positivity and a deep appreciation for life, Ventimiglia hoped to inspire viewers to embrace similar values in their own lives.
‘I Can Only Imagine 2’ is set to premiere in theaters on February 20, offering audiences a story of resilience, faith, and the power of human connection. Ventimiglia’s personal journey of finding healing through his work serves as a testament to the transformative power of art and storytelling in times of adversity. As the actor continues to navigate through life’s challenges, he remains committed to spreading messages of hope and kindness, both on-screen and in his everyday interactions.