Mel Gibson's Controversial Christ Sequel: Casting Backlash, Threats, and a Trippy Vision

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Mel Gibson has been in the spotlight recently with several significant developments surrounding his ambitious sequel project. The 69-year-old actor and director is currently filming "The Resurrection of the Christ" across multiple locations in Italy, including Rome's Cinecittà Studios and various southern Italian cities like Matera and Altamura. Production began in October 2025, and Lionsgate announced that the two-part film will premiere on Good Friday, March 26, 2027, with the second installment following on Ascension Day, May 6, 2027.

However, the production has become mired in significant controversy. According to multiple reports, Gibson is facing assassination threats from religious extremists and far-right groups following his casting of Polish actress Kasia Smutniak as the Virgin Mary. Smutniak, known for her pro-choice activism and support for women's rights movements, has sparked outrage among conservative Christian circles, particularly in Poland. Production insiders indicate that security around Gibson has been substantially increased due to the volume and threatening nature of messages received. Gibson reportedly did not anticipate such intense backlash to the casting decision.

The sequel has also stirred controversy over casting changes. Finnish actor Jaakko Ohtonen has been cast as Jesus, replacing Jim Caviezel from the original 2004 film, which has drawn accusations of blasphemy from some quarters. The original "Passion of the Christ" earned $610 million worldwide and remains the second-highest-grossing R-rated film in North America.

Screenwriter Randall Wallace recently discussed how the project emerged from conversations about the Resurrection's significance in Protestant theology versus Catholic emphasis on the Crucifixion. Wallace described Gibson's vision for the film as "an acid trip" depicting spiritual warfare, with Gibson emphasizing that the project must be approached with pure hearts rather than commercial motivations.

Beyond the film project, Gibson has remained active in other ventures. He recently lost his Malibu home in the Los Angeles wildfires and was named a "special ambassador" to Hollywood by President Donald Trump three weeks ago, alongside Sylvester Stallone and Jon Voight. Gibson expressed surprise at the appointment. His latest directorial effort, "Flight Risk," starring Mark Wahlberg and Topher Grace, represents his first feature film directorial project in nearly a decade.

At a recent MegaCon appearance in Orlando, Florida, Gibson expressed admiration for actor Shia LaBeouf, calling him "a tricky customer" while praising his truthful approach to acting and hoping to collaborate with him in the future.

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