LGBTQ & Gender Identity
The series itself does not depict explicit LGBTQ+ characters or storylines within its narrative. However, controversy arose when a pride flag was seen on set, belonging to an openly gay crew member. Several cast members publicly expressed support for LGBTQ+ individuals and pushed back against critics, while the creator, Dallas Jenkins, affirmed differing beliefs among his crew but maintained the show's theological focus. This has led to discussion and concern within some Christian communities regarding the production's external associations.
A small rainbow pride flag was observed on the camera equipment of Daniel Fritz, an openly gay camera operator, in a promotional video for 'The Chosen' Season 4. Actors Giavani Cairo (Thaddeus) and Jordan Walker Ross (Little James) publicly expressed support for LGBTQ+ individuals and pushed back against calls for boycotts, with Ross tweeting to 'stop gatekeeping the Christian faith' and to a critic to 'get outta here with your hate, homophobia and ignorance'.
Violence
The series contains moderate depictions of violence consistent with its historical setting and biblical narratives, including skirmishes, Roman oppression, and implied conflict. While not overtly graphic or frequent, some episodes feature impactful scenes of physical altercations and death, sometimes accompanied by content warnings.
The first episode of 'The Chosen' includes depictions or allusions to violence. In Season 3, an episode carried a content warning for 'violent images' and showed the Roman prefect Quintus drawing his sword into a chaotic crowd, resulting in a character's death, depicted with blood.
Romance and Sexual Content
Romantic and sexual content within 'The Chosen' is generally mild, with no explicit sexual acts or graphic nudity. However, the show's narrative, in its portrayal of real-life human struggles, alludes to mature themes such as prostitution, adultery, and implied sexual abuse, particularly in character backstories.
The backstory of Mary Magdalene (Lilith) in the first episode alludes to premarital sex and prostitution as part of her past sinful life. Later episodes may allude to or depict themes such as marital intimacy and adultery, often within the context of biblical stories or character development, though without graphic detail.
Witchcraft & Occult
The series includes clear depictions of demonic possession, which is a significant element of the biblical accounts of Jesus' ministry. These scenes can be intense and frightening, portraying individuals tormented by spiritual forces before being miraculously delivered by Jesus.
The first episode prominently features Mary Magdalene's severe struggle with demonic possession, showing her tormented and acting erratically before her healing encounter with Jesus. Reviewers note that the portrayal of demonic possession can be 'in-your-face' and potentially 'terrifying/traumatic' for sensitive younger viewers.
Substance Use
Alcohol consumption, primarily wine, is regularly depicted in 'The Chosen,' consistent with the historical and cultural context of the time. While not glorified, some scenes show characters engaging in heavy drinking as part of their pre-conversion struggles or social gatherings.
The series features regular depictions of characters drinking wine, reflecting the common practices of first-century society. The first episode alludes to 'heavy drinking' in the life of Mary Magdalene (Lilith) before her transformation, highlighting her struggles and vices.
Scary & Intense Content
The show contains several moments of scary and intense content, primarily through its depictions of demonic possession and instances of violence. These scenes are designed to convey the gravity of suffering and the power of Jesus' interventions, but they can be emotionally impactful for viewers, particularly children.
The demonic possession sequence involving Mary Magdalene in the opening episode is notably intense and has been identified as potentially 'too terrifying/traumatic' for some children. Additionally, some episodes carry specific content warnings for 'violent images,' such as the clash in Season 3 where a person is killed with a sword.
Disrespect & Rebellion
The series portrays disrespect and rebellion primarily within the historical context of Roman occupation and the Jewish people's resistance, as well as the initial human flaws and interpersonal conflicts among Jesus's disciples. While the disciples grow in faith, early episodes show their struggles with pride, jealousy, and questioning authority.
The theme of Roman oppression is central, depicting the Jewish people's struggles under Roman rule and their yearning for a Messiah who would lead a rebellion. Early in the series, friction, jealousies, and disagreements are shown developing among Jesus's disciples, such as Simon Peter and Andrew, reflecting their humanity and initial lack of understanding.
Anti-Christian Themes
While 'The Chosen' is overtly Christian in its subject matter and intent, some evangelical Christian reviewers have raised concerns about theological interpretations and production partnerships. These concerns focus on the inclusion of extra-biblical storylines and dialogue, and the involvement of individuals associated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (Mormonism), which some critics view as having a different theological understanding of Jesus.
Critics have noted instances of 'extra-biblical material' where the series adds dialogue and scenes not found in the biblical text, such as Jesus allegedly asking a disciple, 'What does your heart tell you?' which some reviewers consider problematic and akin to Mormon theology. Concerns also stem from the creator's partnership with and use of facilities owned by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, leading to apprehension among some Christians about potential theological compromise.
