Two decades after its initial release, Mel Gibson's "The Passion of the Christ" continues to hold significant cultural and cinematic weight. The film, which debuted on February 25, 2004, garnered over $612 million worldwide, earning it the distinction of being the highest-grossing Christian film and R-rated movie of all time. It presented a brutal, polarizing, yet wildly successful portrayal of Jesus Christ’s final hours, leaving an indelible mark on audiences and redefining conventional Sunday school narratives.

Now, after years of anticipation, Mel Gibson is finally bringing his long-awaited sequel, "The Resurrection of the Christ," to the screen. However, the project's most talked-about aspect isn't its delayed arrival, but rather the significant decision to recast nearly every major role, most notably the absence of Jim Caviezel, who famously portrayed Jesus in the original film. The new production began shooting last week in Rome, marking a fresh start for the biblical saga.

The updated cast features Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen, known for "The Last Kingdom," stepping into the pivotal role of Jesus. Mariela Garriga, from "Mission: Impossible – Dead Reckoning," will play Mary Magdalene, while Kasia Smutniak of "Domina" takes on the role of Mary. Pier Luigi Pasino and Riccardo Scamarcio are cast as Peter and Pontius Pilate, respectively. Additionally, Rupert Everett will make an appearance in a "small, important role" that remains undisclosed.

The news of Jim Caviezel's replacement as Jesus has sparked considerable debate among fans. Many expressed strong disappointment on social media, with one user on X stating, "Recasting Jesus is blasphemous work," and another adding that the film "won’t be the same without a truly devout and believing actor playing Jesus," citing Caviezel's evident personal faith. The casting of a Nordic actor in a Middle Eastern role also drew criticism, with some quipping about "another white Jesus."

However, some fans have defended Gibson's decision, acknowledging concerns about de-aging Caviezel and the potential negative impact on film quality. Initially, Gibson had hinted at the possibility of reuniting the original cast using advanced digital effects for two different scripts, one "very structured and strong" and another "like an acid trip." However, an insider source told Variety that recasting was deemed more financially prudent. Given that "the story takes place just three days after the crucifixion, it made sense to recast the whole film," allowing for a fresh approach to the narrative's immediate aftermath.

"The Resurrection of the Christ" is set to explore the three days following Jesus’ crucifixion, chronicling the Resurrection itself and its profound aftermath. Mel Gibson, who co-wrote and directed the original film alongside Benedict Fitzgerald, also directs the sequel. He plans to release the sequel in two parts: Part One is scheduled for Good Friday, March 26, 2027, and Part Two for Ascension Day, May 6, 2027.