Mel Gibson is returning to the story that shocked the world — but this time, with an entirely new cast and a modern twist.
Over two decades after The Passion of the Christ became one of the highest-grossing independent films in history, Gibson has finally begun filming its long-awaited sequel, The Resurrection of the Christ, at Rome’s iconic Cinecittà Studios. The 2004 original, which made over $610 million worldwide, is getting a major overhaul — with fresh faces stepping into some of the most iconic roles in cinema.
Leading the cast is Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen (The Last Kingdom), who takes over the role of Jesus from Jim Caviezel. Ohtonen, 36, is best known for playing the fierce warrior Wolland on Netflix’s historical drama, but now he’ll embody the world’s most famous figure in one of the most anticipated religious films ever made.
Opposite him is Cuban actress Mariela Garriga, who’s stepping into the sandals of Mary Magdalene — the part once played by Monica Bellucci. Garriga is no stranger to big-screen intensity, having appeared in Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning as Marie.
Other major recasts include Polish-born Kasia Smutniak (Domina) as Mary, Italy’s Pier Luigi Pasino (The Law According to Lidia Poët) as Peter, and Riccardo Scamarcio (Modì) as Pontius Pilate. Rupert Everett is also set to appear in what insiders call a “small but important role.”
According to a source close to production, Gibson’s decision to recast the entire ensemble made sense: “The film takes place three days after Christ’s crucifixion — they would’ve needed costly CGI and de-aging technology otherwise.”
Originally, Jim Caviezel had hinted earlier this year that he was ready to return as Jesus. But Gibson instead went with a younger actor to breathe new life into the story, which he has described as an “acid trip” through the metaphysical events following the crucifixion.
Gibson wrote the two-part sequel with his Braveheart collaborator Randall Wallace. The films — produced under Gibson’s Icon Productions with Lionsgate — are expected to explore the mysterious and miraculous days following the crucifixion.
The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One is scheduled to hit theaters on Good Friday, March 26, 2027, followed by Part Two on Ascension Day, May 6, 2027.
In addition to Cinecittà’s new Studio 22, the film will also shoot in Matera and several other historic southern Italian towns, ensuring the same sweeping, biblical backdrop that made the first film an international phenomenon.
This marks a bold resurrection not just of Christ’s story — but of one of Hollywood’s most controversial and profitable faith-based franchises.
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Is Mel Gibson going too run for Mayor of LA FINALLY
You bet we’ll be seeing Mel Gibson’s “The Resurrection of the Christ” in 2027! Gibson is so remarkably accurate with details about Christ’s life, that The Passion took away our breath! We expect the same thing to happen with “The Resurrection of the Christ”!
I am a child of God. I have never seen the first movie; I am going to watch it this week. I cannot wait until the two new movies come out. Thank you, Mel Gibson.