Actors who have played Jesus in movies and series: some caused a lot of controversy

The figure of Jesus Christ has sparked interest and intrigue in various sectors of the population throughout history. In this sense, countless films or series have been created that seek to depict his life or fragments of it on screen. Below are some of the actors who have played it in front of the cameras (it’s not just Easter movies).

Actors who have played Jesus in movies, series or soap operas

Jim Caviezel in “The Passion of the Christ” (film, 2004)

The American actor stepped into the shoes of Jesus Christ for Mel Gibson’s controversial film, which recreates the last twelve hours of the prophet’s life. His performance is characterized by complete physical and emotional commitment, except that he is actually beaten during the whipping scene and bears a royal crown of thorns.

After playing Jesus, Jim Caviezel has dedicated his life to religion.

Julián Gil in “Jesus of Nazareth” (film, 2019)

The production features Latin American and Spanish talent and depicts some of the most important passages in the life of Jesus Christ (rather than focusing on a specific event). The Puerto Rican’s performance is characterized by warmth, naturalness and closeness, conveying the message of Jesus’ love and hope in a simple and direct way.

Willem Dafoe in “The Last Temptation of Christ” (film, 1988)

The actor starred in the film directed by Martin Scorsese and based on the novel of the same name by Nikos Kazantzakis, which presents a unique and controversial vision of the life of Jesus of Nazareth, presenting him as another man instead of ‘the son of God’.

Jorge Salinas in “Qué bonito amor” (soap opera 2012)

Although the novel did not have a religious theme, for the episodes broadcast in Holy Week 2013, there was a re-enactment of the Passion of the Christ, in which the actor had the opportunity to take on the role of Jesus.

Joaquin Phoenix in “Mary Magdalene” (film, 2018)

The film focuses on the life of Mary Magdalene, as well as her journey to become a faithful follower of Jesus. Although Rooney Mara played the main role, Joaquin Phoenix was responsible for bringing the prophet to life.

Ted Neeley in ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ (1973 musical)

In 1973, Andrew Lloyd Webber’s adaptation of the musical hit the screens, which reenacts the fight between Jesus and Judas Iscariot before the Last Supper in the 1970s and features rock songs.

Camilo Sesto in ‘Jesus Christ Superstar’ (1975 musical)

After the success of the American film, an adaptation was made in Spain that featured the singer as the lead. In addition to singing the songs, Sesto stepped into the position of “Jesuscristo Superestrella” for a performance at the Teatro Alcalá Palace (Madrid) that lasted four months before he had to continue with other commitments.

Christian Bale in “Mary, Mother of Jesus” (film, 1999)

The TV movie focuses on Mary’s life and influence on Jesus, suggesting that some of the prophet’s parables were actually inspired by stories his mother told him as a child. Pernilla August had the role of Mary and Christian Bale, that of Christ.

Ewan McGregor in “Last Days in the Desert” (film, 2015)

As its name suggests, the film narrates the last days of Jesus Christ in the desert, where, unable to communicate with God, he questions the divine plan for him. Ewan McGregor takes on a dual role playing both Jesus and a demon, who is never identified as Satan or otherwise.

Robert Powell in Jesus of Nazareth (TV series, 1977)

The mini-series tells the entire life of Jesus Christ, from his birth to his resurrection in 6 episodes. Protagonist and responsible for giving him life in his mature age was Powell.

Have you already seen all these series and movies about the life of Jesus? Let us know in the comments who your favorite characterization is.