‘The Chosen’ Actor Jonathan Roumie Meets Pope Leo XIV at Vatican, Calling it an 'Honor'

Michael Foust

Audio By Carbonatix

By Michael Foust, Crosswalk.com

The actor who portrays Jesus in the biblical series The Chosen greeted Pope Leo XIV during Wednesday’s general audience and gave him a gift, calling the conversation a blessing. Actor Jonathan Roumie, who is Catholic, was one of four actors from the series present in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on Wednesday as Pope Leo delivered his general audience address, which is open to tourists, pilgrims, and locals. Chosen cast members Elizabeth Tabish (Mary Magdalene), George Xanthis (John), and Vanessa Benavente (Mary) were also attending.

Roumie told Vatican News that “playing a charismatic figure like Christ has helped strengthen my faith.”

“I have lived this experience as a true act of divine grace toward me,” he said.

Roumie added that he grew up in a Catholic home with an Egyptian dad and an Irish mom.

“I have tried to convey what I learned from my parents in an acting role without forcing it,” he said. “I have always seen Jesus as a simple man, whose simplicity contains countless teachings and values that I hope to apply every day of my life.”

Filming the Crucifixion for Season 6

The cast and crew of The Chosen have been in Italy in recent weeks filming Season 6, which will depict the crucifixion. The show will debut late next year, with the Season 6 finale landing in theaters around Easter 2027. Filming took place in Matera.

Roumie added that the “weight of responsibility I felt while filming certain scenes was enormous, but the strength of my faith drove me to great concentration. And today’s meeting with the pope has been an immeasurable honor.”

It was not the only event in Rome for the cast members, who also attended a press conference and a special screening at the Vatican for episode four of Season 5. The newest season will begin streaming in Italy in July.

Roumie previously met Pope Leo’s predecessor, Pope Francis.

Roumie also shared his thoughts about his meeting with Pope Leo on Instagram.

“Thank you, Pope Leo for taking the time to meet and share with us, and for your kindness, charity and serene countenance,” Roumie wrote. “The Peace and Spirit of the Lord is clearly upon you and we were all blessed to receive His Peace through you. Additionally, your words of gratitude to me personally for the weighty and life-changing service the Lord has committed me to in portraying Christ both moved and encouraged me immensely. Your sentiments will stay with me forever.
“God bless you, protect you and keep you. Know of my daily prayers for you and your pontificate.”

Michael Foust has covered the intersection of faith and news for 20 years. His stories have appeared in Baptist Press, Christianity Today, The Christian Post, the Leaf-Chronicle, the Toronto Star and the Knoxville News-Sentinel.

Listen to Michael's Podcast! He is the host of Crosswalk Talk, a podcast where he talks with Christian movie stars, musicians, directors, and more. Hear how famous Christian figures keep their faith a priority in Hollywood and discover the best Christian movies, books, television, and other entertainment. You can find Crosswalk Talk on LifeAudio.com, or subscribe on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an interview that will be sure to encourage your faith.

More about Jonathan Roumie

Jonathan Roumie is an actor best known for his powerful portrayal of Jesus in the hit series The Chosen. A devout Catholic, Jonathan has spoken openly about how his deep faith shapes both his personal life and his career. His heartfelt performance has moved millions, helping to bring the story of Christ to life in a relatable and authentic way. Offscreen, Jonathan encourages believers to deepen their prayer lives and trust in God’s plan. His humility and dedication to glorifying Christ through his work have made him a beloved figure among Christian audiences.