The Chosen

The Chosen is a multi-season drama that retells the life of Jesus Christ through the eyes of the people who met him. Created by Dallas Jenkins, the series streams on Prime Video, VidAngel, and its own platform. Jonathan Roumie stars as Jesus, with Shahar Isaac as Simon Peter, Elizabeth Tabish as Mary Magdalene, and Paras Patel as Matthew. The show began in 2019 and has released four seasons totaling 32 episodes, with more on the way. Its patient, character-driven approach and high production values have earned a devoted audience and strong ratings. The tone balances reverence with human warmth, turning biblical figures into relatable people.

Set in 1st-century Galilee, the series meticulously reconstructs the world of ancient Israel, focusing on the personal stories and spiritual journeys of ordinary people whose lives were profoundly changed by Jesus's ministry. The narrative begins by introducing a range of characters from different social strata and backgrounds, each grappling with their own struggles, beliefs, and societal expectations. Central to the series are figures like Simon Peter, a fisherman burdened by debt and familial responsibility; Mary Magdalene, a woman battling inner demons and societal ostracization; and Matthew, a tax collector ostracized by his community.[edit]

The Chosen offers an intimate look at the life of Jesus of Nazareth, focusing on the individuals who encountered him and how their lives were transformed. The story begins by introducing us to a variety of people in 1st-century Galilee, each dealing with their own unique challenges. We meet Simon Peter, a fisherman struggling with financial burdens and family obligations. There's Mary Magdalene, who carries the weight of past trauma and social stigma. Matthew, a tax collector, finds himself alienated from his community. These individuals, along with many others, are drawn into the orbit of Jesus, a charismatic and compassionate figure whose teachings and miracles offer a radical message of love and redemption.

As Jesus's ministry grows, the series explores the impact he has on his followers and the growing tension with the religious and political authorities. Season 1 introduces us to Jesus and his earliest disciples, showing their lives before they were called and the pivotal moments of their recruitment. Season 2 sees Jesus and his growing group of followers travel more widely, ministering to larger crowds and facing both increased devotion and rising skepticism. The disciples begin to understand their roles and the challenges ahead, deepening their relationships with Jesus and each other.

Season 3 delves into more profound teachings from Jesus, including the iconic Sermon on the Mount, solidifying the commitment of the twelve apostles. This period also sees the opposition from the religious leadership intensify, as Jesus's unconventional methods and growing influence are seen as a threat. Season 4 escalates these conflicts, with Jesus's public ministry becoming more prominent and the efforts to discredit or stop him becoming more overt. The narrative arc consistently builds towards greater understanding of Jesus's mission and the trials that await him and his followers, always keeping the focus on the personal transformations of those around him.[edit]