Back in Time Today
Playing Jesus Christ is a role that has captivated and challenged actors for decades.
This blog post explores the diverse and transformative portrayals of Jesus by 20 different actors across film, television, and stage.
Each actor brings their unique interpretation, adding depth and dimension to one of history’s most iconic figures.
1. Max von Sydow – The Greatest Story Ever Told (1965)
Max von Sydow’s portrayal of Jesus in “The Greatest Story Ever Told” is nothing short of majestic. With a solemn and regal demeanor, he embodies the spiritual leader in an epic Hollywood narrative. This film, directed by George Stevens, presents Jesus in a grand scale, emphasizing his divine yet human nature. Von Sydow’s performance is both powerful and gentle, capturing the dual essence of Christ. His commanding presence and deep gaze leave a lasting impression on audiences, making his depiction one of the most memorable in cinematic history.
2. Jeffrey Hunter – King of Kings (1961)
Dubbed the “Teenage Jesus,” Jeffrey Hunter’s portrayal in “King of Kings” brings a youthful vibrancy to the role of Christ. His Hollywood heartthrob looks and engaging screen presence make him a standout in this biblical epic. Hunter’s Jesus is approachable and charismatic, capturing the hearts of the masses in the story. The film focuses on the human side of Jesus, highlighting his interactions and compassion for those around him. Hunter’s performance is both fresh and timeless, offering a new perspective on the traditional image of Jesus.
3. Robert Powell – Jesus of Nazareth (1977)
Robert Powell’s portrayal in “Jesus of Nazareth” remains iconic, largely due to his mesmerizing blue eyes and serene presence. Directed by Franco Zeffirelli, this television miniseries captures the life of Jesus with profound depth and reverence. Powell’s Jesus exudes a calm authority, embodying wisdom and compassion. His performance is subtle yet powerful, drawing viewers into the spiritual journey of Christ. The series’ detailed narrative and Powell’s charismatic performance make it a definitive portrayal of Jesus, resonating with audiences worldwide.
4. Willem Dafoe – The Last Temptation of Christ (1988)
Willem Dafoe delivers a complex and human portrayal of Jesus in Martin Scorsese’s “The Last Temptation of Christ.” His performance is both controversial and deeply introspective, exploring the internal struggles of Jesus. Dafoe’s Jesus is not only divine but also profoundly human, wrestling with doubt and temptation. This bold reimagining challenges traditional narratives, offering a new perspective on Christ’s journey. Dafoe’s intense and nuanced portrayal invites viewers to explore the dual nature of Jesus, both as a man and as a Messiah.
5. Jim Caviezel – The Passion of the Christ (2004)
Jim Caviezel’s performance in “The Passion of the Christ” is one of profound intensity and emotional depth. Directed by Mel Gibson, this film focuses on the final hours of Jesus’ life, emphasizing the physical and spiritual suffering he endured. Caviezel’s portrayal is raw and visceral, capturing the agony and sacrifice of Christ. The film’s unflinching depiction of the Passion has sparked both acclaim and controversy, but Caviezel’s dedication to the role shines through. His portrayal leaves a lasting impact, bringing the story of Jesus’ sacrifice to life.
6. Christian Bale – Mary, Mother of Jesus (1999)
Before donning the cape as Batman, Christian Bale took on the role of Jesus in “Mary, Mother of Jesus.” This unique film tells Christ’s story from Mary’s perspective, offering a fresh angle on familiar events. Bale’s performance is gentle and introspective, highlighting the human side of Jesus. His interactions with Mary, portrayed with warmth and authenticity, add emotional depth to the narrative. Bale’s youthful portrayal presents a relatable and compassionate Jesus, resonating with viewers seeking a deeper understanding of his life and teachings.
7. Henry Ian Cusick – The Visual Bible: The Gospel of John (2003)
Henry Ian Cusick delivers a performance rooted in scripture in “The Visual Bible: The Gospel of John.” This film presents the Gospel word-for-word, with Cusick bringing the text to life with sincerity and depth. His Jesus is thoughtful and articulate, capturing the essence of the biblical message. Cusick’s portrayal emphasizes the teachings and parables, offering viewers a deeper understanding of Christ’s words. The film’s focus on accuracy and Cusick’s dedicated performance make it a valuable resource for those exploring the New Testament.
8. Ralph Fiennes (voice) – The Miracle Maker (2000)
In the stop-motion animated film “The Miracle Maker,” Ralph Fiennes provides the voice of Jesus, bringing warmth and depth to the character. The animation style adds a unique visual element, while Fiennes’ voice conveys a peaceful and authoritative presence. This innovative portrayal captures the spirit of Jesus’ teachings, offering a fresh perspective on familiar stories. Fiennes’ performance is both engaging and accessible, making the film suitable for audiences of all ages. His voice brings an emotional resonance to the character, enhancing the film’s impact.
9. Enrique Irazoqui – The Gospel According to St. Matthew (1964)
Enrique Irazoqui’s portrayal of Jesus in “The Gospel According to St. Matthew” is both raw and captivating. Directed by Pier Paolo Pasolini, this film offers a Marxist interpretation of the biblical narrative, using a non-professional actor to bring authenticity. Irazoqui’s intense gaze and compelling presence breathe life into the story, capturing the revolutionary spirit of Christ’s teachings. The film’s stark black-and-white cinematography adds to the powerful portrayal, making Irazoqui’s Jesus a memorable figure in the realm of religious cinema.
10. Haaz Sleiman – Killing Jesus (2015)
Haaz Sleiman brings a new perspective to the role of Jesus in “Killing Jesus,” a National Geographic adaptation of Bill O’Reilly’s book. As a Middle Eastern actor, Sleiman’s portrayal adds authenticity and depth to the character, emphasizing the cultural context of Christ’s life. His Jesus is thoughtful and reflective, offering a nuanced interpretation of the historical figure. The film’s focus on the political and social climate of the time adds layers to Sleiman’s performance, making it a compelling and insightful watch.
11. Joaquin Phoenix – Mary Magdalene (2018)
In “Mary Magdalene,” Joaquin Phoenix delivers a gritty and introspective portrayal of Jesus. The film focuses on the relationship between Jesus and Mary Magdalene, presenting a revisionist take on their story. Phoenix’s Jesus is both strong and vulnerable, capturing the complexity of his character. His performance highlights the human side of Christ, offering viewers a deeper understanding of his teachings and interactions. The film’s unique perspective and Phoenix’s compelling portrayal make it a thought-provoking addition to the portrayal of Jesus in cinema.
12. Diogo Morgado – The Bible (2013 miniseries) & Son of God (2014)
Dubbed “Hot Jesus” by fans, Diogo Morgado’s portrayal in “The Bible” miniseries and “Son of God” film is both charismatic and inspiring. His Jesus exudes warmth and compassion, drawing people to him with an innate sense of kindness. Morgado’s performance captures the essence of Christ’s teachings, emphasizing love and understanding. His handsome and approachable demeanor makes him a relatable figure, resonating with modern audiences. The success of both projects highlights the impact of Morgado’s portrayal, making him a standout in the realm of biblical adaptations.
13. Jeremy Sisto – Jesus (1999 TV Movie)
Jeremy Sisto’s portrayal in the 1999 TV movie “Jesus” presents a more modern and humanized version of Christ. His performance is approachable and relatable, emphasizing Jesus’ interactions with everyday people. Sisto’s Jesus is compassionate and understanding, offering a fresh perspective on familiar biblical stories. The film’s contemporary approach makes the story accessible to a wide audience, highlighting the timeless nature of Jesus’ message. Sisto’s engaging performance brings warmth and humanity to the character, making his portrayal a memorable addition to the list of actors who have played Jesus.
14. Victor Garber – Godspell (1973)
In the musical “Godspell,” Victor Garber takes on the role of Jesus with a unique twist. This 1973 film features Jesus dressed in clown makeup, singing and dancing in a vibrant, theatrical style. Garber’s portrayal is lively and joyful, capturing the spirit of the ’70s and the essence of the musical’s message. His performance is both entertaining and thought-provoking, offering a fresh take on the teachings of Christ. The combination of music, dance, and Garber’s charismatic presence makes this portrayal a standout in the world of musical adaptations.
15. Ted Neeley – Jesus Christ Superstar (1973 film & stage)
Ted Neeley’s portrayal of Jesus in “Jesus Christ Superstar” is legendary, both on film and stage. His performance in the rock opera is intense and passionate, capturing the revolutionary spirit of the character. Neeley’s Jesus is both a rock star and a spiritual leader, bringing a unique energy to the role. His powerful voice and dynamic stage presence leave a lasting impression, making this portrayal a defining moment in musical theatre. Neeley’s continued performances in the role highlight the enduring impact of his portrayal, resonating with audiences worldwide.
16. John Hurt (voice) – The Miracle Maker (2000)
While Ralph Fiennes provided the voice of Jesus in “The Miracle Maker,” John Hurt played a key supporting spiritual role, adding depth to the narrative. Hurt’s voice performance brings wisdom and gravitas to the film, enhancing its emotional impact. The stop-motion animation style adds a unique visual element, while Hurt’s distinguished voice provides a sense of authority and reverence. His portrayal enriches the storytelling, offering viewers a deeper connection to the spiritual themes of the film. Hurt’s contribution is vital to the film’s success and resonance with audiences.
17. Bruce Marchiano – The Visual Bible: Matthew (1993)
Bruce Marchiano’s portrayal of Jesus in “The Visual Bible: Matthew” is unique for its warmth and accessibility. His Jesus is joyful and smiling, bringing an approachable and loving presence to the screen. Marchiano’s performance emphasizes the compassion and kindness of Christ, making the teachings of the Gospel relatable and engaging. The film’s commitment to biblical accuracy is complemented by Marchiano’s heartfelt portrayal, offering viewers an inspiring and uplifting experience. His joyful interpretation of Jesus resonates with audiences, making it a beloved portrayal in religious cinema.
18. Ewan McGregor – Last Days in the Desert (2015)
Ewan McGregor takes on the dual roles of Jesus and the Devil in “Last Days in the Desert,” offering a meditative and introspective portrayal. His performance explores the internal conflicts and spiritual journey of Christ, set against a barren landscape. McGregor’s Jesus is contemplative and human, wrestling with doubt and temptation. The film’s minimalist approach and McGregor’s nuanced performance invite viewers to reflect on the universal themes of faith and redemption. His portrayal adds depth and complexity to the character, making it a standout in the realm of indie religious films.
19. Robert Wilson – The Life and Passion of Jesus Christ (1903)
Robert Wilson’s portrayal in “The Life and Passion of Jesus Christ” is one of the earliest film representations of Jesus, offering a glimpse into the beginnings of religious cinema. This silent film, painstakingly colorized by hand, brings the story of Christ to life with a sense of reverence and tradition. Wilson’s performance is both solemn and earnest, capturing the essence of Jesus’ journey. The film’s historical significance and Wilson’s portrayal make it a landmark in the portrayal of Jesus on screen, setting a foundation for future interpretations.
20. Jonathan Roumie – The Chosen (2017–present)
Jonathan Roumie’s portrayal of Jesus in “The Chosen” has garnered widespread acclaim, offering a fresh and engaging take on the life of Christ. As the first multi-season series about Jesus, Roumie’s performance is both compassionate and relatable, drawing viewers into the story. His Jesus is approachable and human, emphasizing the personal relationships and teachings that define his life. Roumie’s portrayal resonates with audiences, earning a devoted fanbase and bringing a new dimension to the story of Jesus. The series’ innovative approach and Roumie’s engaging performance make it a standout in modern religious media.