Lighting Up the Screen: Christians in Hollywood Changing the Narrative

Lights! Camera! ACTION!! Those are the words echoed on the set when movies and tv shows are being filmed. When those words are heard, every thought, concept, and element of creativity are released to bring stories to life. Much of what is dispensed from Hollywood is catered to the secular viewer. However, there are many Christians in Hollywood that are lighting up the screen striving to change the narrative from Kirk Cameron, Tim Tebow, Angela Bassett, Denzel Washington, Priscilla Shirer, and the list goes on.

Do you remember the 2015 multi-million-dollar box office hit War Room? Christian actress Karen Abercrombie commanded our attention in the role of Miss Clara; a widowed military wife calling the matriarch of a family and the nation back to prayer. Karen has starred in many faith-based roles that display the heart of God or draw the viewer to the heart of God. Her vigor, tenacity and passion in the roles she plays is breathtaking. Her role as Miss Clara in War Room has been showcased on numerous YouTube videos, quotes, and social media memes that all pave the way for open dialogue about the power of prayer and leading the narrative towards the discussion of Jesus Christ.

There is no way to discuss War Room without mentioning the creators of the film, the Kendrick Brothers: Alex, Stephen, and Shannon Kendrick. This dynamic family trio has shaken the gates of Hollywood with numerous faith-based films that we have grown to know and love. The late Christian Grammy award winning singer Mandisa sang the soundtrack hit for one of their most successful movies, Overcomer. In addition to War Room and Overcomer, Kendrick Brothers Productions has changed the narrative by bringing us films such as Fireproof, Flywheel, Show Me the Father, and my all-time favorite, Facing the Giants that give us real life examples of what it means to activate our faith and fully rely on Jesus. Their latest production, The Forge, will be released in theaters in the USA on August 23, 2024, and I will be front and center.

Another Christian in Hollywood that is changing the narrative with his influence is Kevin Sorbo. I am dating myself here as I remember Kevin in the hit series Hercules. He would go on to play other like roles throughout his career. However, Kevin’s stance on his faith and Christian beliefs caused him to be unwillingly disenfranchised by Hollywood. That, however, did not cause him to lower his stance or quit. He has since been the star of the record-breaking Christian box office film God’s Not Dead which challenged the minds of many and spawned into a four-installment series. Kevin and his wife, Sam, now operate Sorbo Studios where they continue to produce films that inspire the masses.

Also inspiring the masses on film, in the church, and on social media is the incomparable Priscilla Shirer. The youngest daughter of the late Lois Evans and Dr. Tony Evans surprised us all with her jaw dropping performance in the movie War Room, Overcomer, I Can Only Imagine, and others. The seemingly shy preachers’ daughter holds no punches on the big screen or on her social media posts and appearances. She boldly declares the word of the Lord and unapologetically encourages viewers to do the same, Priscilla has reshaped the role of a wife on the big screen by her display of praying bold prayers, fighting for her marriage and the sanctity of her home God’s way. Her books, reels, and posts echo her performances on the big screen in real life. She plays a leading role in the upcoming 2024 box office film The Forge.

Charming many on camera and behind the scenes is none other than Devon Franklin. I came to know Devon Franklin from the cover of his book The Wait; co-authored by his then girlfriend now ex-wife actress Megan Good. Devon is a bold believer in Jesus Christ who’s life’s work is all about getting the message of the gospel in front of the world. He serves as producer on films such as The Pursuit of Happiness, Heaven is for Real, Canal Street, Star, and many more. His appearance in front of the camera in the movie Jesus Revolution, speaks to the versatility of his craft. Devon is also a motivational speaker, minister, and a popular voice on all social media platforms proclaiming the good news. His latest hit television series, Kingdom Business, can be watched on BET. It is a must see for those in the entertainment industry that struggle with doing business the world’s way verses God’s way.

For many years, I can remember Kirk Cameron making bold moves on television and on the big screen starring in roles that were uncommon. Take the original Left Behind series for example. Kirk Cameron starred in the films based on the book series by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins. The subject matter of the films was not something commonly discussed by the masses but caused all to take note of a foretold encounter destined to change the trajectory of mankind. Boldly displaying the rapture on film in a manner that was relatable struck a chord in the hearts and minds of many that watched the films. It was challenging to watch them and not feel convicted or reflect on your lifestyle and the choices you made thus far. The narratives from those films were and still are uncommon.

Being a Christian in Hollywood is no easy feat. It takes courage and the willingness to risk it all to stand in faith and exemplify Christ in the television and film industry. I applaud the men and women who are bold enough to take a stand and use their influence to change the narrative of the movies we watch and the content that we stream.

Theresa Shawn McIntosh, KBN Contributor

www.theresamcintosh.com