Overview

• Jim Caviezel will not reprise Jesus and Monica Bellucci will not return as Mary Magdalene, with key roles to be recast.
• Casting meetings are underway in Rome as pre-production accelerates for the long-gestating sequel.
• Lionsgate plans a two-part theatrical rollout in 2027, with Part One on March 26 (Good Friday) and Part Two on May 6 (Ascension Day).
• Sources attribute the recasting to scheduling conflicts and extensive digital work required more than two decades after the original film.
• Mel Gibson is producing through Icon Productions with partner Bruce Davey, following the 2004 original’s roughly $370 million domestic and $610 million-plus global box office.