Jaakko Ohtonen to Portray Jesus in Mel Gibson’s "The Passion of the Christ: Resurrection"

Acclaimed Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen has been cast in the role of Jesus Christ in Mel Gibson's long-awaited sequel to The Passion of the Christ, officially titled The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One. Ohtonen succeeds Jim Caviezel, who famously portrayed Jesus in the 2004 global phenomenon.

Currently in production at Cinecittà Studios in Rome, the two-part epic continues the story of Christ's crucifixion and resurrection. The Resurrection of the Christ: Part One is set for worldwide release on March 26, 2027 (Good Friday), followed by Part Two on *May 6, 2027 (Ascension Day).

Ohtonen, born in Oulu, Finland, is best known for his roles in the historical series Vikings: Valhalla and The Last Kingdom. A graduate of the University of Tampere with a master's degree in Theatre Arts, Ohtonen has earned praise across film, television, and stage for his emotional depth and commanding screen presence.

Speaking about the casting, a source close to the production said, "Mel Gibson wanted a fresh portrayal-someone who could embody both the humanity and divinity of Jesus in a powerful, new way. Jaakko's performance brings a unique authenticity and quiet strength that resonates deeply with the vision of this sequel."

Alongside Ohtonen, the film features an all-new international cast, including Mariela Garriga (Mary Magdalene), Kasia Smutniak (Mary, Mother of Jesus), Riccardo Scamarcio (Pontius Pilate), and Pier Luigi Pasino (Peter). Veteran actor Rupert Everett also joins in a key undisclosed role.

While The Passion of the Christ became one of the highest-grossing faith-based films of all time, Gibson's follow-up promises to explore the spiritual and political aftermath of the crucifixion with renewed cinematic scope. The director has described the project as "a profound meditation on victory, transformation, and eternal hope."

Production is expected to continue through early 2026, with principal photography taking place across Italy and Israel.

 

 

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