A bridge between the media
and the Christian community
Frequently Asked Questions about The Passion
When will the programmes be broadcast?
As is normal in television the dates and times of the broadcasts will not be confirmed until the beginning of March. However, we know that the first episode will be broadcast on BBC1 on Palm Sunday 16th March. The remaining episodes will be scheduled over the next six days, with the final episode on Easter Sunday 23rd March. All the broadcasts will be on BBC1.
How does the series treat the gospel stories?
This series is their attempt to understand and retell the events of the last days of Jesus' life as they are recorded in the gospels. The story is told from three points of view : the religious authorities; the Romans; and Jesus and his disciples. All the key players are intimately characterised, with Jesus at the centre. The series starts with Jesus' prophetic entrance through the East Gate of Jerusalem. It follows him to his crucifixion. The last episode of the series deals in detail with Jesus' resurrection appearances and their impact on the disciples. Like the first disciples, viewers will be left trying to understand what has happened, and what it might mean.
Who is behind the series?
The series was commissioned by BBC Drama, and has been made by Deep Indigo Productions. The script was written by Emmy Award winner Frank Deasy (Prime Suspect, England Expects). The production team consulted with Christian and Jewish theologians at the pre-production stage, and were also advised by the BBC's Religion and Ethics studio. The producer was Nigel Stafford-Clark, who won BAFTAs for Warriors and The Way We Live Now. To hear Nigel Stafford-Clark speak in detail about the series Listen Now
Who is in the cast?
Jesus is played by Joseph Mawle, who was seen in Persuasion and Clapham Junction. At 33 Mawle is the same age that Jesus was during the events of Holy Week. Other leading roles are played by James Nesbitt (Pilate) who has starred in Murphy's Law and Cold Feet, Darren Morfitt (Peter) who played Jesus in The Manchester Passion last year, Laura Fraser (Mary Magdalene) who appeared in A Knight's Tale and Kevin and Perry Go Large and David Oyelowo (Joseph of Arimathea) who appears in Spooks and The Last King of Scotland.
Why is the BBC making this series?
There was no “religious” motive in producing this series. Quite simply they were looking for a great story to tell in episodic drama. The story of Jesus is an iconic story that bears retelling in every generation.
What if people want to know more about Jesus?
The Christian Enquiry Agency is ready to provide encouragement and information for anyone who wants to know more about Jesus, or to take a step of faith. The website ReJesus.co.uk will have a special section dedicated to enquiries following the broadcasts. We recommend that churches advertise this site, and general enquiries from members of the public are directed to this site.
Can I get a copy of the series?
The series will be available on DVD at a later date. Bible Society are producing a pack of educational materials to accompany the series for use in schools, churches and adult education. It is of course legal to record the broadcast for your personal use, but it is illegal to use that copy for public display.
What is the Churches' Media Council?
The Churches' Media Council is a body made up of representatives of all the major Christian churches in the UK, together with some of the larger Christian organisations. The task of the Churches' Media Council is to build a bridge of understanding between the Christian community and the media. The Churches' Media Council also runs theMediaNet, an Association of Christians in Media. For more details visit www.churchesmediacouncil.org.uk.
Where can I get more information?
Enquiries and suggestions about the Christian response to the series can be directed to info@churchesmediacouncil.org.uk.
Printable Leaflet
The information available on this website can also be found in our leaflet on The Passion. Please feel free to download and print the leaflet if you wish.
The Passion leaflet 414 KB
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