For Jonathan Roumie, portraying Jesus Christ in “The Chosen” is more than just an acting role – it is a profound calling. In this week’s episode of “Conversation with Cardinal Dolan” on SiriusXM, which airs each week on Catholic Faith Network, Roumie sat down with Cardinal Timothy Dolan and Monsignor Jim Vlaun to discuss the journey, challenges, and spiritual impact of bringing Christ’s story to life.

Since its debut, “The Chosen” has captivated millions around the world with its unique, character-driven portrayal of Jesus and his disciples. As season five approaches, Roumie reflected on the weight of playing such a pivotal role, describing it as both a privilege and a responsibility.

“Life is a little different now”

During the interview, Cardinal Dolan remarked on the changes Roumie must have experienced since stepping into the role of Christ.

“I presume this is a joy and an honor for you, but it’s got to be a burden,” the Cardinal said. “Your life has changed. Every place you go, you must want to run for cover.”

Roumie smiled, acknowledging how his life has been transformed. “Life is a little bit different now,” he admitted. “If there is any kind of perceived downside, celebrity for me is always something that I’m able to offer up because this is the greatest honor of my life.”

For Roumie, the opportunity to portray Jesus extends far beyond the screen. The actor recognizes the impact the series has had on viewers, many of whom have experienced profound spiritual awakenings after watching “The Chosen.” He has heard stories of people returning to their faith, going to confession for the first time in decades, and rediscovering their love for the Gospel.

“It’ll be the most important thing I ever do artistically, bar none,” Roumie stated. “And God willing, I’ll be working for another 50 years, but I know that there will be nothing that will be more important, or that will supersede the work that this is doing in people’s hearts and minds and souls.”

Portraying the humanity of Jesus

One of the hallmarks of “The Chosen” is its ability to depict Jesus not only as divine but also deeply human – someone who laughed, wept, and engaged with his followers in real, relatable ways.

Roumie emphasized that the series seeks to highlight the daily experiences of Jesus and his disciples, their struggles, and their growth in faith.

“I think the thing that we do that nobody’s ever really tackled in long-form storytelling is what was the day-to-day like for the followers of Jesus?” Roumie said. “What did they come up against? They were woefully human – much as I am. Jesus was as human as God allowed him to be, to be able to commiserate with us in all of our temptations and our foibles.”

This approach has made “The Chosen” particularly resonant with viewers, allowing them to see themselves in the stories of Jesus’ disciples – their doubts, their frustrations, and their ultimate faith.

Faithfulness to Scripture and sensitivity to history

As “The Chosen” has grown in popularity, it has also been praised for its commitment to biblical and historical accuracy. Roumie explained that the series works closely with a team of scholars, including a Catholic priest, a Messianic rabbi, and a Protestant professor, to ensure that the storytelling remains faithful to Scripture and respectful of history.

One of the more sensitive aspects of any depiction of Christ’s life is how to accurately portray the tensions of first-century Judea without fostering anti-Semitic narratives. Roumie and the creative team have been intentional in showing the complexity of the Jewish leaders at the time, their devotion to the law, and their struggles in understanding Jesus’ mission.

“We try to build a really good case for why the Pharisees and Sadducees believed what they believed, how Jesus was a stumbling block to their own progression of faith,” Roumie explained. “His mission as Messiah was not what they expected – but it was completely different, and it threw everything upside down.”

Looking ahead to season five

With the premiere of season five approaching on March 27, fans of “The Chosen” can expect to see the drama intensify as Jesus’ ministry reaches its climactic moments. Season four ended with the raising of Lazarus and the growing tensions that will lead to the events of Holy Week. The new season will explore the final days leading up to Jesus’ Passion, setting the stage for the ultimate sacrifice.

Watch their full discussion in the video above, which also includes a sneak peek at season five.

“Conversation w/ Cardinal Dolan” simulcasts weekly on the Catholic Faith Network with SiriusXM channel 129, The Catholic Channel.