"The Chosen" Fuels Faith-Based Entertainment Boom
Locales: UNITED STATES, ISRAEL

Los Angeles, CA - February 25th, 2026 - The phenomenal success of "The Chosen," the independently produced series depicting the life of Jesus Christ, isn't just a one-off hit; it's the leading edge of a significant and rapidly expanding wave in faith-based entertainment. Industry analysts are now declaring a new era for content that centers on religious themes, positive values, and uplifting narratives - a boom that extends far beyond film and television and into multiple facets of the entertainment landscape.
Since its debut, "The Chosen" has garnered over 100 million views globally, establishing itself as one of the most-watched independent series in history. But experts emphasize that the show's impact isn't merely in its viewership numbers. It's fundamentally shifted perceptions within the entertainment industry, demonstrating a previously underestimated appetite for content that resonates with faith-based audiences.
Brent Christensen, CEO of Salt Lake Film Studios, a key partner in the production of "The Chosen," explains, "It's not simply about 'The Chosen.' It's a clear indication - a signal flare, if you will - that audiences are actively seeking out high-quality entertainment that affirms their beliefs and values. For too long, this demographic has been underserved, or relegated to niche productions. Now, the demand is undeniable."
This demand isn't limited to traditional cinematic or televised formats. The faith entertainment surge encompasses a wide array of media, including a blossoming market for faith-inspired music, a proliferation of religiously themed podcasts, and the development of immersive, interactive experiences. Jason Goforth, CEO of Studio 7 Productions, confirms the growing trend. "We've seen a substantial increase in inquiries from both creators and studios eager to explore faith-based projects. The appetite is broad, ranging from historical dramas to contemporary stories with strong moral cores."
Several converging factors contribute to this unprecedented growth. The current global climate, marked by political polarization, social unrest, and economic uncertainty, has fostered a longing for positivity and hope. Audiences are actively seeking content that offers respite from negativity and reinforces values of love, compassion, and forgiveness. "People are craving stories that uplift and inspire," Goforth adds. "Something that provides genuine hope and resonates with their deepest beliefs is incredibly powerful, particularly in these challenging times."
Beyond simply fulfilling a content void, "The Chosen" also pioneered a remarkably successful crowdfunding model, bypassing traditional studio financing and directly engaging with its audience. This approach not only funded the series but also created a deeply invested fanbase, further amplifying its reach and impact. This model is now being replicated by other independent faith-based production companies, empowering creators to maintain artistic control and connect directly with their target demographic.
However, the shift isn't without its challenges. Some critics argue that faith-based entertainment can sometimes fall into tropes or present overly simplistic narratives. Successfully appealing to a broad audience while maintaining artistic integrity and theological accuracy requires a nuanced approach. Christensen acknowledges this, stating, "The key is authenticity. We're not about preaching; we're about storytelling. If the story is compelling and relatable, the faith aspect will naturally resonate."
The burgeoning faith entertainment industry is also generating significant economic opportunities. It's creating new jobs for filmmakers, actors, writers, musicians, and other creative professionals. Locations like Salt Lake City, Utah, are rapidly becoming hubs for faith-based production, attracting investment and fostering a thriving creative community. Experts predict that the industry will continue to expand in the coming years, fueled by ongoing audience demand and innovative production models.
Looking ahead, industry insiders anticipate a diverse range of faith-based content, including biographical dramas, historical epics, contemporary stories addressing relevant social issues from a faith perspective, and even animated series geared towards younger audiences. The potential is vast, and the future of faith-based entertainment appears brighter than ever. The impact of "The Chosen" is no longer simply measured in viewership numbers, but in the foundation it's laid for a whole new era of storytelling.
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[ https://www.deseret.com/entertainment/2026/02/25/the-chosen-faith-entertainment-boom/ ]