The Chosen to Make U.S. Broadcast Debut

The Chosen, an event series about the life of Jesus Christ, is set to make its U.S. broadcast debut on The CW Network on July 16.

From creator, director and producer Dallas Jenkins, the series tells Jesus’s life story in full, set against the backdrop of Jewish oppression in first-century Israel. The CW will run the first three seasons through the fall, with the season three finale airing on Christmas Eve.

The Chosen began as a crowdsourcing project on the Angel Studios app and has grown into a global phenomenon with over 110 million viewers in 175 countries, with plans to make it available in 600 languages. It has generated 6.5 million followers across social media and $35 million at the box office for special event theatrical releases.

Jonathan Roumie stars as Jesus in the series, which is distributed globally by Lionsgate. Seven seasons are planned, with the fourth currently in production.

“The Chosen is based on the biggest IP of all time and is truly a one-of-a-kind series that tells this historically significant story in a captivating, dramatic and premium way,” said Brad Schwartz, president of entertainment at The CW Network. “This show has already connected deeply with viewers around the world, and The CW will expand its audience even further.”

“The CW has always been bold and unique, which is perfect for us,” Jenkins added. “Plus, Brad Schwartz made it clear a while ago he loves and respects The Chosen, so we know it’ll be in great hands.”

Jim Packer, president of worldwide television distribution at Lionsgate, said, “As part of our global representation of this coveted property, we are pleased that The CW will become another great partner for The Chosen. This groundbreaking series already has a massive global following, and The CW platform will provide the perfect opportunity for the show to reach existing fans and inspire new ones.”