SHOULD CATHOLICS WATCH THE SERIES "CHOSEN"?
QUESTION? / COMMENT!
Should Catholics watch the series ‘Chosen’? I heard it’s not accurate.
ANSWER! / COMMENT!
This is a great example of well ordered ecumenism, where Catholics and Protestants can lock arms and promote a culture of faith in this culture of death. The Chosen is a well-produced, multi-season drama depicting the life of Jesus Christ and His disciples. Created by evangelical Protestant Dallas Jenkins (with a Catholic actor, Jonathan Roumie, portraying Jesus), it uses significant artistic license to fill in backstories, personalities, and dialogue not explicitly in the Gospels—something the show's creators openly acknowledge. They emphasize that it's not a replacement for Scripture and encourage viewers to read the Bible themselves.
Many Catholics appreciate the series for its emotional depth, portrayal of Jesus' humanity and mercy, and its ability to spark interest in the Gospels. Prominent Catholics, including Bishop Robert Barron (who has interviewed Roumie) and organizations like the Augustine Institute (which offers Catholic commentary on the show via FORMED), have engaged positively with it. Numerous Catholic priests and viewers find it inspiring, highlighting how it draws people closer to Christ, encourages Bible reading, and fosters conversions.
Here are some key strengths that resonate with Catholic viewers:
It vividly shows Jesus' compassion, miracles, and relationships in ways that feel fresh and relatable.
It portrays the apostles as real, flawed people undergoing transformation.
The production quality is high, making faith feel accessible in a media-saturated world.
However, there are valid concerns about accuracy from a Catholic perspective:
Some scenes contradict Catholic teachings or biblical scholarship (e.g., depictions of Mary's labor pains in a Christmas special, which conflicts with the doctrine of her perpetual virginity, including virginitas in partu—virginity during birth).
Certain portrayals of Gospel composition or events may align more with Protestant or modern interpretations than traditional Catholic views.
Artistic additions (e.g., extra dialogue or character traits) can sometimes feel anachronistic or prioritize emotional appeal over strict fidelity.
Criticisms also include the show's Protestant origins and early ties to Angel Studios (a faith-based platform founded by Latter-day Saints members, though Jenkins has clarified no theological influence from Mormonism on the content, and the partnership has since ended). The series consults a diverse panel (including a Catholic priest) to aim for broad appeal, which some see as positive ecumenism and others as diluting doctrine.
Ultimately, whether Catholics should watch it is a matter of personal discernment. It's not officially endorsed or condemned by the Church, and there's no inherent sin in viewing artistic depictions of Scripture—provided you approach it critically:
Treat it as dramatized storytelling, not inspired Scripture.
Cross-reference with the Gospels and Catholic teachings (resources like the Catechism, Church Fathers, or Catholic Bible studies help).
Use it as a tool for reflection and prayer, not as a primary source of faith formation.
Many Catholics find it a positive force for good in a culture often hostile to Christianity—it awakens interest in Jesus, prompts Bible reading, and highlights shared Christian values. If it leads people toward the fullness of truth in the Catholic Church, that's a grace worth celebrating.
In a world full of moral garbage on TV, The Chosen stands out as a thoughtful, faith-affirming alternative. Watch with eyes open, heart engaged, and always anchored in the authentic Gospels and the Church's Tradition. If it draws you (or others) deeper into love for Our Lord, it can be a genuine tool of Divine Providence.