- Mel Gibson has replaced Jim Caviezel for the sequel to “The Passion of the Christ,” casting Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen as Jesus.
- The official reason for the change is that Caviezel, now two decades older, is no longer age-appropriate for a film that begins just three days after the crucifixion.
- Ohtonen is known for portraying dark, violent characters in popular series like Netflix’s “The Last Kingdom” and “Vikings: Valhalla.”
- The highly anticipated film, “The Resurrection of the Christ,” is slated for a two-part release, with the first part scheduled for Good Friday in 2027.
Shock Recasting for Passion Sequel
In a move that has stunned many fans, Mel Gibson has announced that Jim Caviezel will not return to play Jesus Christ in the long-awaited sequel, “The Resurrection of the Christ.” The iconic role has instead been given to Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen, a name many are hearing for the first time.
The decision has sparked widespread discussion, but the reason provided by the production is a matter of simple chronology. With over 20 years having passed since “The Passion of the Christ,” the creators felt that Caviezel has aged too much to convincingly portray Jesus in a story that picks up merely three days after the events of the first film.
Who Is the New Jesus, Jaakko Ohtonen?
As audiences grapple with the change, many are digging into Ohtonen’s acting history, discovering a resume filled with characters that stand in stark contrast to the Son of God. His past roles are heavily centered in gritty, violent historical dramas.
A Scheming Mercenary in The Last Kingdom
One of Ohtonen’s most significant roles was playing the warrior Wolland in the fifth season of the popular Netflix series “The Last Kingdom.” In the historical drama, his character was a manipulative mercenary, deeply involved in orchestrating smuggling operations and assassination plots. The series itself is known for its graphic violence, explicit language, and mature sexual content.
A Norse Warrior in Vikings: Valhalla
The 36-year-old actor also appeared as Johan in the first season of Netflix’s “Vikings: Valhalla,” a follow-up to the acclaimed History Channel series. The show explores the violent conflict between Viking descendants and the English, with Ohtonen’s character immersed in a world of brutal pagan and Christian clashes. Like “The Last Kingdom,” this series is also noted for its violent depictions and mature themes.
A Role in a Violent Thriller
More recently, Ohtonen is starring in a new Disney+ series based in Sweden, “To Cook a Bear.” The six-episode historical thriller, set in 1852, follows the search for a killer bear. According to its IMDb parental guide, the series contains “severe” violence, adding another dark and intense character to Ohtonen’s portfolio.
A New Direction for a Sacred Role
The casting of an actor known for such intense and morally ambiguous roles has certainly raised eyebrows. As Mel Gibson prepares to bring “The Resurrection of the Christ” to audiences in 2027, all eyes will be on Jaakko Ohtonen to see how he transitions from playing warriors and schemers to one of the most sacred figures in history.
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