Emmy Award-winning actress Courtney Hope says stepping into the role of Mary, the mother of Jesus, in the new faith-based audio series “The Christ” podcast wasn’t just another acting job—it was deeply personal.
“I truly believe that the role came as an answer to a prayer of mine,” Hope said.
Hope stars alongside a powerhouse cast—including Tom Pelphrey as Jesus, David Oyelowo as Pontius Pilate and Paul Walter Hauser as John the Baptist—in “The Christ,” a four-part audio series from Faith Podcast Network that brings the gospel story to life through cinematic sound and storytelling.
The series spans the life of Jesus, from his birth to his resurrection, across four immersive episodes designed to feel like a feature film experienced entirely through sound.
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During a recent interview with ChurchLeaders, Hope said her faith (something she doesn’t always get to openly discuss in Hollywood) was central to both her life and her approach to the role.
“I think that is something that is huge in my life and I don’t get to talk about it very often,” she said. “My faith has allowed me to experience lots of different avenues and facets of life that I feel otherwise I might have been afraid to tackle.”
Hope shared that landing the role of Mary came during a season of personal wrestling in her prayer life.
“I was vigorously praying and it just wasn’t happening,” she said, describing a situation involving someone she loves. “I had kind of lost a moment of faith.”
Then something unexpected happened.
“Three days later I got an email and it was for this role,” Hope said.
Through studying Mary’s life, Hope said she found clarity and peace.
“I needed to just love the people around me and trust that there is a purpose and there is a reason and that God will prevail,” she said.
