Actor Jim Caviezel has declined to reprise the role of Jesus Christ in the upcoming sequel to the biblical drama The Passion of the Christ, according to Page Six.
Producers are now searching for a new lead; principal photography is planned to take place in Rome. Monica Bellucci, who portrayed Mary Magdalene in the original film, will not be returning either.
Mel Gibson is set to return as director. The follow-up, titled The Resurrection of Christ, will be released as two separate films, with Lionsgate scheduling their releases for March and May 2027.
