Hollywood Actors Who Are Outspoken About Their Faith
By Movieguide® Contributor
Mainstream Hollywood isn’t synonymous with the Christian faith, but several A-list actors use their platforms to glorify the Lord.
These men speak openly about their faith to the press and on social media. Many star exclusively in faith-based films and are leading the charge to make changes in Hollywood. From Chris Pratt sharing the Gospel during his MTV Our Generation Award Acceptance Speech to Kirk Cameron standing up for family values, these actors are outspoken about their faith.
Alan Ritchson
Best known for his portrayal of Jack Reacher in the action series REACHER, Alan Ritchson is an A-lister who isn’t shy about discussing his faith. The actor is so dedicated to his walk with the Lord that he launched a YouTube channel, InstaChurch, where he discusses scriptures with his fans. He’s also vocal about the need for faith-based entertainment in Hollywood and is a committed husband and father.
Ritchson spoke with The Christian Post about his motivation for acting during a press tour for the movie ORDINARY ANGELS. He hopes to highlight the resilience of the human spirit and show that true peace comes from a relationship with God.
“That Sermon on the Mountain, Beatitudes way of living, it’s not foreign to me, and it takes a lot of work, which is why I cling to it,” he said. “The times that I’ve had the most trouble are the times where I am on my own, a slave to my own ambition. Realizing there’s really nothing there at the top when you’re just grinding away at building your own empire—I don’t belong in that camp. I belong in God’s camp.”
Chris Pratt
Many fans discovered Chris Pratt as the lovable Andy Dwyer on the sitcom PARKS AND RECREATION. He went on to star in action blockbuster films like THE GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY and JURRASIC WORLD franchises. Despite being skyrocketed into fame, Pratt is open about his faith, stands up for American veterans and doesn’t back down in the face of cancel culture.
The actor faced harsh criticism for his religious beliefs. Not to be deterred by haters, Pratt reflected on scripture and the life of Jesus.
“That’s nothing new, you know? That’s the way it is—nothing new,” Pratt said, adding of Jesus Christ: “Two thousand years ago, they hated him too. If I was of this world, they would love me just like that but as it is, I’ve chosen out of this world. That’s John 15:18 through 20,” he shared.
Mark Wahlberg
Former bad boy Mark Wahlberg may have starred in questionable roles in the past in films like BOOGIE NIGHTS and the TED movies, but he’s now dedicated his craft to making meaningful content like FATHER STU. He’s a devout Catholic who openly discusses his beliefs and faith with the media. The actor is also a devoted family man to his wife and children.
Wahlberg opened up about his decision to take on faith-based roles while on a press tour for FATHER STU.
“I feel like this is starting a new chapter for me in that, now, doing things like this—real substance—can help people,” Wahlberg told Entertainment Tonight.
“I definitely want to focus on making more. I wouldn’t say necessarily just faith-based content but things that will help people,” he added. “So, hopefully, this movie will open a door for not only myself but for lots of other people in Hollywood to make more meaningful content.”
Kevin Sorbo
Kevin Sorbo made his mark in the ’90s hit show HERCULES but found himself blacklisted from Hollywood for being outspoken about his faith. Not to be deterred, the actor launched his production studio, Sorbo Studios, to create faith-based content. He’s starred in several Christina films, including GOD’S NOT DEAD, FORGIVEN and many other films featuring a Biblical worldview.
Sorbo sat down with Newsmax to discuss his experience of being canceled in Hollywood for his religious beliefs and how it inspired him to create movies that aligned with his faith.
“I’m going to keep fighting the good fight and doing the movies that I’m going to do,’ he said. “I’m going to make movies that have love, hope, laughter, redemption, faith. I want movies that move people and make them think about things. I like wild movies too, but I like to do the movies that I want to do.”
Kirk Cameron
Who doesn’t remember Kirk Cameron starring as the heartthrob Mike Seaver in the popular sitcom GROWING PAINS? The actor has not only grown up but has openly professed his love for Jesus Christ and dedicated his career to creating faith-based content. From hits like FIREPROOF to family drama films like LIFEMARK, Cameron stands out as an actor fighting to make a difference in Hollywood.
Cameron is also a celebrated children’s author of the book, “The Fox, The Fair, and the Invention Scare,” which he wrote to teach children that love conquers all.
“Ironically, one of the lies culture tells your children is that the love of self should be their single most important priority,” a description of the book reads. “But, what about teaching them the hard lesson about Christ’s higher, self-sacrificial love? In Kirk’s new book, on the topic of loving your enemy, Stewart the Giraffe dreams of beating Asher at the Hive Haven Fair. But, when an unexpected accident ruins Stewart’s chances, it’s how Asher reacts that changes everything!”
