The series The Chosen is undergoing a significant transformation in its journey. Known for its groundbreaking approach to depicting the life of Jesus Christ, the production, created by Dallas Jenkins, recently parted ways with its original partner, Angel Studios, and is now forging ahead with bold changes in its fifth season. Despite the shift, the crowdfunding model that has always been the backbone of the project remains strong through the nonprofit organization Come and See. This approach has not only preserved the series’ core but also expanded its global reach, landing on platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and Brazil’s SBT, while debuting episodes in theaters. With over 280 million viewers across 175 countries, The Chosen solidifies its status as a cultural phenomenon, and the innovations don’t stop there: new projects, including an animated series and a miniseries about Joseph, are on the horizon.
Since its inception, The Chosen has stood out for being funded directly by its audience, a strategy that revolutionized audiovisual production. The split from Angel Studios, announced in 2024 following a contractual dispute, marked the end of an era but opened doors to a more robust framework. Jenkins, in recent interviews, explained that Come and See has taken over donation management, ensuring 100% of the funds go toward production, marketing, and translation efforts. This adjustment has eased financial pressures on the team, previously burdened by rising costs alone, and enabled a leap in scale. The fifth season, titled The Chosen: Last Supper, focuses on Holy Week and premieres in theaters in March, showcasing the ambition to reach even broader audiences.
The impact of this transition extends beyond mere figures. What began as a modest independent project has grown into a production that rivals major secular shows in quality and influence. A theatrical distribution deal with Amazon MGM Studios marks a milestone in this expansion, while the unwavering support of fans—over 104,000 donors from 151 countries funded the fifth season—keeps the project thriving and free to watch. Jenkins emphasizes the goal of bringing Jesus’ story to 1 billion people, and the new resources are making that vision increasingly attainable.
Why did the split with Angel Studios happen?
The end of the relationship between The Chosen and Angel Studios wasn’t entirely unexpected for those following behind-the-scenes developments. The partnership, which began in 2017, was crucial in launching the series but became unsustainable over time. Jenkins disclosed that only 40% of crowdfunding donations collected through Angel Studios went to production, with the rest allocated to marketing and the company itself. While this model worked initially, it started to hinder the series’ growth as expenses soared with more elaborate sets and a larger team, now comprising over 70 staff members at Jenkins’ 5&2 Studios.
Tensions peaked in 2024 when The Chosen LLC, the entity behind the series, accused Angel Studios of breaching terms from a revised 2022 agreement. A private arbitration settled the dispute, ruling in favor of The Chosen and officially ending the collaboration. Angel Studios expressed regret over the outcome and signaled plans to appeal, but Jenkins has made it clear that reconciliation is off the table. He acknowledged Angel’s role in the series’ early success but stressed the need for a sturdier foundation to move forward.
With Come and See now steering the financial ship, the dynamics have shifted. Every donation now flows directly into production, and the organization matches contributions, effectively doubling their impact. This setup not only keeps the series free on its official app but also supports translations into dozens of languages—aiming for 600 in total. The transition reflects a natural evolution for a project that has outgrown its indie roots to become a global entertainment force.
How does crowdfunding sustain The Chosen?
The success of The Chosen is deeply tied to its fanbase. Since the first season launched in 2019, crowdfunding has been the project’s foundation, raising over $10 million from 19,000 initial investors. That figure has since skyrocketed: the fifth season was backed by 104,000 donors from 151 countries, according to the Come and See Foundation. This “pay-it-forward” model lets viewers watch for free while contributing to future seasons, creating a unique cycle of sustainability in the audiovisual landscape.
Jenkins notes that fewer than 5% of the series’ 580 million-plus viewers donate, yet the impact of those contributions is monumental. Each dollar is amplified by Come and See, which doubled donations for the fifth season, securing funds for filming in locations like Goshen, Utah, and Midlothian, Texas. Partnerships with streaming services and TV networks, such as the second season’s airing on SBT in March 2024, also generate additional revenue to cover overhead costs and fuel growth.
The numbers speak volumes:
- Over 500 million global views by early 2025.
- Translation underway for dozens of languages, targeting 600.
- An average donation of $65 per contributor, based on 2021 data.
This financial backing has allowed The Chosen to expand its crew, sets, and technical quality, staying true to Jenkins’ vision of delivering an intimate, accessible portrayal of Jesus.
What’s new in the fifth season?
The fifth season, dubbed The Chosen: Last Supper, promises to be a defining chapter. Centered on Holy Week, it portrays pivotal moments like Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem and the events leading to the crucifixion. Shot on a grander scale, the season premiered at a special event in Texas on March 20, drawing 600 in-person attendees and 212,000 viewers via a live YouTube stream. The theatrical release, partnered with Amazon MGM Studios, kicks off in late March, aligning with Lent and the lead-up to Easter.
Jenkins described this season as one of the most powerful yet, offering a fresh, impactful take on Jesus’ story. The production leaned into detailed set design and standout performances, with Jonathan Roumie reprising his role as Jesus alongside Shahar Isaac, Elizabeth Tabish, and Paras Patel. The cinema rollout, a tactic started with season four, reflects growing demand for an immersive experience, while the The Chosen app will make episodes freely available post-theatrical run.
The Amazon partnership is a game-changer. Jenkins likened the studio’s support to “pouring gasoline on a fire,” highlighting how its infrastructure and reach accelerate the series’ global spread. The result is a season that blends cinematic quality with a message resonating with both religious viewers and those seeking top-tier entertainment.
What side projects are in the works?
Beyond the main series, The Chosen is branching out with an array of side projects. Jenkins unveiled ambitious plans ranging from supplementary materials to new audiovisual ventures. Books, Bible studies, devotionals, and even children’s books are in development to deepen fans’ experiences and appeal to all ages. These products not only bring in extra revenue but also strengthen the emotional bond with the audience.
Standouts include an animated series based on The Chosen, set to bring biblical stories to kids and teens in an accessible format. Another project in the pipeline is a miniseries about Joseph from the Old Testament, promising an epic tale crafted with the same care as the flagship show. Adventure programs and reality shows are also on the horizon, including a collaboration with survivalist Bear Grylls, who filmed an outdoor special with cast members.
These initiatives reflect Jenkins’ vision of building a “cinematic universe of Jesus.” He’s confirmed the main series will wrap with season seven, covering Christ’s resurrection and ascension, but spin-offs like a series on the Acts of the Apostles are planned. This diversification shows how The Chosen has moved beyond its Christian niche to establish itself as a global cultural franchise.
How did The Chosen reach this point?
The journey of The Chosen is one of perseverance and innovation. It all started with a 2017 short film, The Shepherd, released by Jenkins independently, which caught the eye of VidAngel (later Angel Studios). The pilot’s success on Facebook, with over 15 million views, paved the way for crowdfunding the first season. Raising over $10 million, the project became the highest-grossing crowdfunded TV endeavor, outpacing even secular initiatives.
Growth snowballed from there. From its initial run on the Angel Studios app, the series spread to Netflix, Peacock, and Prime Video, plus networks like The CW in the U.S. and SBT in Brazil, where season one debuted in December 2023. Theatrical releases, starting with season four in 2024, took it to new heights, with strong box office turnout and a loyal fanbase packing theaters. Now, with over 280 million viewers in 175 countries, The Chosen exemplifies how an indie project can rival entertainment giants.
The secret lies in blending compelling storytelling with a groundbreaking financial model. Jenkins aimed to portray Jesus in a “personal, intimate, and immediate” way, focusing on those around him—like Simon Peter, Mary Magdalene, and Matthew—to humanize the narrative. This approach, paired with fan support and rising production values, turned The Chosen into a juggernaut with no signs of slowing down.
What’s next for future seasons?
With season six already in the works, The Chosen has a clear roadmap for its final three seasons. Season five tackles Holy Week, season six will center on the crucifixion, and season seven will conclude with the resurrection and ascension. Filming for season six is slated to begin soon, with Jenkins vowing to maintain the emotional depth and detail of prior seasons. Production will continue leveraging authentic locations and a top-tier crew for a memorable finale.
The tentative timeline includes:
- Season six: filming starts in 2025, with a projected 2026 release.
- Season seven: production from 2026 to 2027, wrapping the main series.
- Spin-offs: parallel development, with potential debuts from 2027 onward.
These phases hinge on ongoing fan support, but season five’s success suggests funding won’t be an issue. The Amazon MGM Studios partnership could also speed things up, bringing more resources and visibility.
Expansion across platforms and formats remains a strength. After theatrical runs, season five episodes will hit the The Chosen app and later stream on services like Netflix and Prime Video, mirroring past releases. In Brazil, SBT broadcasts are expected to continue, bolstering the series’ Latin American presence.
How does the series impact its global audience?
The Chosen reaches far beyond its original audience. With over 500 million views and millions of social media followers, it’s won over viewers of diverse faiths and backgrounds. Translations into dozens of languages, funded by Come and See, aim to make it accessible to “all nations,” as Jenkins puts it. High-profile moments like billboards in Times Square in February 2025, shot by Annie Leibovitz, underscore its cultural footprint.
In Brazil, the series gained traction through SBT airings and availability on Netflix and Globoplay. Season four’s Netflix debut in April 2025, alongside season five’s theatrical rollout, sparked major buzz among fans. The story, blending historical drama with universal themes like redemption and faith, appeals to Christians and casual viewers alike.
Fan engagement sets it apart. Live streams, like the season five premiere, connect Jenkins and the cast directly with viewers, while the app offers extras like biblical roundtables and behind-the-scenes footage. This closeness fuels the donor base and keeps the series relevant in a crowded market.
Why is The Chosen different from other religious shows?
Unlike traditional biblical adaptations, The Chosen opts for a human, approachable lens. Jenkins sought to break from idealized depictions of Jesus, spotlighting the stories of those around him. Characters like Matthew, portrayed with autistic traits, and Mary Magdalene, with a layered past, gain emotional depth rarely seen in the genre. This narrative choice, paired with high production values, elevates it above typical Christian fare.
Technical quality shines through. Shot with cutting-edge cameras and realistic sets, The Chosen rivals secular series in visuals and direction. The soundtrack, featuring artists like Dan Haseltine, and meticulous cinematography enhance the immersive feel. For many, it’s the first religious production to hit this level without diluting its core message.
Distribution strategy also stands out. While Christian content often stays niche, The Chosen goes mainstream with theatrical releases, streaming deals, and its own app. This broad approach, tied to crowdfunding, offers a model others are starting to eye.
What’s the legacy of The Chosen so far?
Five years in, The Chosen has left an indelible mark on entertainment. As the biggest crowdfunded TV project ever, raising over $10 million for season one alone, it proved audiences can sustain quality content without traditional studios. This success has spurred similar efforts, like Angel Studios’ ongoing crowdfunding ventures for Christian projects.
Its cultural impact is striking. With over 280 million viewers and a goal of reaching 1 billion, The Chosen is reshaping how biblical tales are told in the digital age. It’s built a global fan community that doesn’t just watch but actively supports through donations and social media. Events like the Texas premiere and Times Square campaign highlight this bond.
For Jenkins, the legacy transcends stats. He sees The Chosen as a way to present Jesus authentically and accessibly, reaching both the faithful and the curious. The growing narrative universe, with spin-offs and extras, hints that this influence will only expand.
What’s coming in The Chosen universe?
The future of The Chosen is bright and varied. Beyond the main series’ final seasons, side projects are taking shape. The animated series, aimed at younger viewers, is due in the coming years, while the Joseph miniseries will dive into a lesser-known biblical epic with the same craftsmanship. Adventure shows, like the Bear Grylls special, are also in progress, offering a fresh take on Christian content.
Plans include:
- An Acts of the Apostles series, confirmed as a key spin-off by Jenkins.
- More educational materials, like Bible studies and devotionals, for churches and schools.
- New studio and platform partnerships to boost global reach.
With season six in pre-production and season seven mapped out, The Chosen presses toward its 1-billion-viewer mission. Amazon’s backing and Come and See’s model ensure the resources to make it happen.
Each release reaffirms the series’ staying power. Whether in theaters, on the app, or streaming, The Chosen keeps drawing millions with its blend of story, quality, and purpose. The split from Angel Studios, far from a setback, paved the way for growth few foresaw when it all began.
