The BBC is experiencing a ‘come to Jesus’ moment.
This is not a reference to the remorse the company may have had in light of the many scandals it has faced over the past decade, but rather a new historical documentary series the company has commissioned about the life of Jesus Christ.
The four-part documentary series, due to arrive on the BBC’s broadcast networks and streaming platforms in 2027, will combine research, archaeology, technology and expert interviews to piece together the life of one of history’s most important figures. According to a press release, “major thinkers” from Christianity, Judaism and Islam will also contribute.
The series, produced by Wonderhood Studios (Power: The Fall of Huw Edwards), promises “visceral, intimate details” as well as “cinematic storytelling” that will also focus on the era in which Jesus was born and the many forces, including political, social, religious and cultural influences that shaped his legacy.
Annabelle Hobley (‘World War II with Tom Hanks’) will serve as showrunner and Owen Gower (‘Essex Murders’) will serve as series director.
“This series is testament to the BBC’s commitment to religious programming that deepens our understanding of each other and the world around us,” said Daisy Scalci, the broadcaster’s head of religious ethics.
“Jesus Christ is one of the most recognized and influential figures in human history, yet the information we know about him comes from surprisingly few sources. This ambitious series focuses on his life like never before. With new historical research and insight, there has never been a more compelling moment to re-examine the evidence and trace the trajectory of Jesus’ life to illustrate how he sparked a revolution that continues to impact our lives more than 2,000 years later.
The series is the latest in a slew of Bible movie content, from Netflix’s last year’s “Ruth and Boaz” to Prime Video’s ongoing hit series “House of David.” Last December, Kevin Costner hosted an ABC special called “Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas,” which explored the story of Mary and Joseph, and he shows no signs of slowing down. This Christmas, the feature film “Zero Ad”, which is described as an “epic Biblical drama” based on the Gospel of Matthew, will be released, and Mel Gibson’s long-awaited movie “The Resurrection of Christ” is scheduled to be released in theaters in 2027.
