The 2024 faithinspired film *FortySeven Days with Jesus*, also known simply as *47 Days with Jesus*, blends biblical narrative with modern family drama. It traces the story of the Burdon family headed by Joseph and Juliana (played by Yoshi Barrigas and Catherine Lidstone of *The Chosen*) who reconnect at Poppa and Nonna’s ranch and rediscover their faith through the unfolding of Jesus’s final 47 days on earth. The movie balances spiritual reflection with relatable family tensions, making the cast choices especially meaningful.
Main Cast and Their Roles
Yoshi Barrigas as Joseph Burdon
Yoshi Barrigas, known for portraying Philip the Apostle in *The Chosen*, leads the modern arc of the story as Joseph Burdon. He’s a devoted husband and father facing a careerdriven crossroads. Barrigas brings a grounded, heartfelt portrayal to a man balancing family, work, and faith.
Catherine Lidstone as Juliana Burdon
Catherine Lidstone plays Juliana Burdon, Joseph’s wife, whose own struggles with marital stress and teenage parenting add emotional depth to their journey. Lidstone, also of *The Chosen*, captures the balance of resilience and vulnerability common to many modern mothers.
Emilio Palame as Poppa
Portraying the family patriarch, Emilio Palame not only acts as Poppa but also took roles as producer and director. His character drives the central narrative by recounting the transformative story of Jesus’s final 47 days and helping the family rediscover unity.
Norma Maldonado as Nonna
Norma Maldonado appears as Nonna, Poppa’s wife, offering warmth and wisdom. Her presence adds generational grounding, reminding viewers of the importance of family heritage and shared faith.
Cameron Arnett as Pontius Pilate
Cameron Arnett, also an associate producer, appears as Pontius Pilate in the biblical storyline. His powerful performance underscores the moral weight of judgment during Jesus’s final days.
Adam Perez Courtney & Aliyah Camacho as Daniel and Emma Burdon
Young actors Adam Perez Courtney and Aliyah Camacho play Daniel and Emma Burdon. Their teenage struggles and subsequent spiritual growth reflect the tensions many modern families face during holidays or reunions.
Jonathan Byram as Jesus & Joshua Triplett as Peter
Jonathan Byram portrays Jesus in the biblical segments, bringing a solemn, musical dimension to the role. Joshua Triplett appears as the apostle Peter, adding authenticity and emotional nuance to key gospel scenes.
Stephen Hailo as Judas Iscariot & Cassie Byram as Mother Mary
Stephen Hailo plays Judas Iscariot, while Cassie Byram embodies Mary, mother of Jesus. Their performances add dramatic tension and familial tenderness to the gospel arc.
Lilli Passero, Tory N. Thompson & Others
The cast also includes Lilli Passero (Claudia), Tory N. Thompson (Jeremy), Serenity Grace Russell (Brenda), Patrick Rutnam (John), Danvir Singh (James the Great), Jason LaPenta (Thomas), Erin Etoroma (Mary Magdalene), and Nene Nwoko (Flower Woman). These roles bring dimensionality to both family life and biblical storytelling.
Behind the Scenes: Key Creatives
Directors & Writers
Emilio Palame and David M. Gutel codirected and cowrote the film, blending family drama with gospel retelling. Their roles ensured both narrative threads intertwine seamlessly.
Music Direction
Music was led by Darlene Koldenhoven (Grammy winner), with contributions from Rolland Jacks and Palame. The original soundtrack underscores emotional arcs and spiritual moments.
Production & Distribution
The film was produced under Fathom Entertainment, Pinnacle Peak Pictures, Reel Big Studios, and Vero Entertainment, and distributed by Fathom Events for select Easter showings.
Cast Summary
- Yoshi Barrigas Joseph Burdon
- Catherine Lidstone Juliana Burdon
- Emilio Palame Poppa (also director/producer)
- Norma Maldonado Nonna
- Cameron Arnett Pontius Pilate (associate producer)
- Adam Perez Courtney Daniel Burdon
- Aliyah Camacho Emma Burdon
- Jonathan Byram Jesus
- Joshua Triplett Peter
- Stephen Hailo Judas Iscariot
- Cassie Byram Mother Mary
- Lilli Passero Claudia
- Tory N. Thompson Jeremy
- Serenity Grace Russell Brenda
- Patrick Rutnam John
- Danvir Singh James the Great
- Jason LaPenta Thomas
- Nene Nwoko Flower Woman
The cast of *FortySeven Days with Jesus* skillfully bridges modern family dynamics with biblical storytelling. Featuring actors from *The Chosen* like Yoshi Barrigas and Catherine Lidstone, supported by an ensemble that includes Emilio Palame, Jonathan Byram, and Stephen Hailo, the film delivers both emotional sincerity and spiritual resonance. Their performances complemented by evocative music and thoughtful direction highlight themes of faith, forgiveness, and unity. Whether in their roles as everyday family members or historical figures, the cast elevates the film into a heartfelt, uplifting viewing experience suitable for Easter and beyond.