The Chosen (TV series)

The Chosen is an American Christian historical drama television series. Created, directed, and co-written by filmmaker Dallas Jenkins, it is the first multi-season series about the life and ministry of Jesus of Nazareth. Primarily set in Judaea and Galilee in the 1st century, the series centers on Jesus and the people who met and followed him. The series stars Jonathan Roumie as Jesus as well as Shahar Isaac, Elizabeth Tabish, Paras Patel, Noah James, and George H. Xanthis. The producers primarily employ a crowdfunding approach to finance production; The Chosen became the most successful crowdfunded TV series or film project in history. The series streams for free on its own app, using a pay-it-forward model for viewers to contribute funding to make it free for others. Additional revenue comes through licensing to other streaming platforms, TV networks, and theatrical releases. Filming began on rental sets in Texas. The series was later offered the opportunity to use a Jerusalem film set in Utah created by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS Church). Following the success of the first two seasons, The Chosen partnered with the National Christian Foundation and the Impact Foundation to construct a production complex in Texas complete with soundstage, set workshops, and a replica of the village of Capernaum. According to a 2022 analysis commissioned by the show's producers, 108 million had seen at least part of the show through the app and streaming platforms. While the series has received some criticisms for its use of artistic license, portrayals of Mary, and injecting Mormon theology into its script, the majority of the response has been positive. It has won two GMA Dove awards, two K-Love fan awards, and one Epiphany Prize from Movieguide. The series is internationally distributed by Lionsgate and translation into other languages is funded by the Come and See Foundation. The show has been adapted into a series of novels by Jenkins's father, author Jerry B. Jenkins, a series of graphic novels by Corvus Comics, and companion Bible study materials published by David C. Cook.