Caviezel Says a Vision Convinced Him to Play Jesus

Caviezel recalled that he was close to rejecting the role when, early one morning, he sensed a presence in his bedroom. He said the figure told him that playing Jesus was not a duty of his Catholic faith. Caviezel replied that someone else could take the part, but said the figure then appeared sad and told him, “I don’t have anybody else.”

The actor said he asked why he had been chosen. In his account, the figure replied that others would not ask the questions Caviezel would. The exchange persuaded him to accept the role. The film, released in 2004, portrays the final hours of Jesus’ life and his crucifixion.

Caviezel also described injuries and dangerous conditions during production, including a shoulder injury, hypothermia and being struck by lightning while filming. He said the hypothermia nearly killed him and that his blue appearance at the end of the movie reflected his physical condition.

Caviezel is appearing in the action thriller Ghost Soldier and is getting ready to star in the biblical drama Zero A.D., portraying King Herod. He also discussed the lasting effect of working with Gibson and spiritual experiences he believes have influenced his life and career.