Mel Gibson Reportedly Consulting With Excommunicated Archbishop on The Resurrection of The Christ

Mel Gibson’s sequel, The Resurrection of The Christ, is getting attention again, with production underway in Italy. This time, it’s for his choice to get feedback from Excommunicated Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò.

pic.twitter.com/QEFao5b6RA

— Arcivescovo Carlo Maria Viganò (@CarloMVigano) February 17, 2026

Viganò once served as a papal nuncio, or Vatican ambassador, to the United States and became a controversial figure for his longstanding criticism of Pope Francis and rejection of reforms from the Second Vatican Council. Archbishop Viganò described the late Pope Francis as “a false prophet” and “servant of Satan,” disagreeing with someone of the Pope’s liberal stances.

The archbishop drew attention for his support of President Trump, skepticism of vaccine safety, and opposition to gay marriage. In 2024, the Vatican declared Viganò excommunicated after he refused to recognize Pope Francis’ authority. Gibson was a voice of support of the archbishop.

Viganò on Set

Photographs and posts shared by Viganò on social media showed him on the film set speaking with Gibson and members of the crew. These images circulated widely online, with many taking this as proof that Gibson was using Viganò’s input on set.

On February 20th, Variety reported that Gibson had consulted with Viganò on the production of The Resurrection of the Christ, identifying the archbishop as having a role in offering input during filming.

Jesus in The Passion of The Christ – Netflix

However, a report by TMZ published shortly after Variety’s account challenged the claim that Viganò serves as a formal consultant. According to the TMZ article, sources close to the production stated the archbishop’s presence on set was part of a visit and conversation with Gibson, but that he was not working in an official advisory capacity.

Representatives for Gibson did not provide comment in response to requests at the time of the report.

The Resurrection of the Christ

The production of The Resurrection of the Christ has continued to advance amid these differing accounts. The film is being shot in locations near Rome and represents a continuation of Gibson’s focus on events surrounding the life and death of Jesus Christ.

The project is planned as two feature films, with Part One scheduled for release on Good Friday, March 26, 2027. Part 2 is set for Ascension Day, 40 days later. The films are expected to depict events following the crucifixion, centering on the Resurrection and its aftermath. Gibson has described the film as an “acid trip,” indicating an unconventional approach to the story’s depiction. Although details to the story’s plot are still scarce, Gibson has revealed the story will include more supernatural and metaphysical elements to portray this central event of Christianity.

Jesus carrying the cross in The Passion of The Christ – Netflix

Coverage of Viganò’s association with the film has highlighted broader discussions about the intersection of religious figures and entertainment projects. Commentators and critics have noted that Viganò’s history of outspoken theological and institutional criticism makes his reported interaction with Gibson noteworthy in light of the project’s religious subject matter.

As of this writing, there has been no official confirmation from Gibson or his representatives regarding regarding Viganò’s relationship with the project.

What do you think of Mel Gibson and his choice to potentially partner with Archbishop Viganò? Are you looking forward to this sequel? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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