Key Points:
- The actor behind Jesus in The Chosen, Jonathan Roumie met Pope Leo XIV at the Vatican on June 25.
- He described the meeting as deeply moving and praised the pope’s global message of faith.
- The pair reflected on how faith connects people and helps transform lives through grace.
A Powerful Meeting in Vatican City
Jonathan Roumie, best known for playing Jesus in The Chosen, had a special encounter with Pope Leo XIV on June 25 at the Vatican.
The moment happened during the pope’s general audience. Roumie smiled as he took a selfie with the first American pope. The image was later shared by Pope Leo XIV on Instagram.
In the caption, the pope wrote, “Every time we perform an act of faith addressed to Jesus, we grow in our connection with Him.” He added that Jesus’ grace quietly reaches us and changes our lives, even when we don’t realise it. His message was posted in six languages: English, Portuguese, Spanish, Italian, French and German.
Roumie Reflects on His Role and the Pope
Roumie said meeting the pope was “extraordinary for so many reasons.” He explained how he reacted when Pope Leo XIV was elected, saying, “I wept because I never thought I’d see an American pope in my lifetime.”
He added that being able to speak to the pope in their shared native language was something he never thought he’d experience.
Speaking about The Chosen, Roumie said it started as a simple passion project. “I saw it as an opportunity just to put this story out there,” he noted.
Now with nearly 300 million viewers, Roumie views the show as a life-changing mission.
The Chosen Continues to Inspire Millions
Roumie said playing Jesus has made him want to be a better person. “It makes me want to be the best version of myself on a daily basis,” he said.
He also believes the show is helping others connect with faith and feel closer to Jesus.
The Chosen is currently streaming its fifth season. The final two seasons will focus on Jesus’ crucifixion in season six and His resurrection in season seven.
