The Chosen Season 5 Release Dates Echo a Major Mistake from Season 4

The eagerly awaited Season 5 of The Chosen has received its official release date alongside a unique distribution approach. However, this decision reflects the mixed reception of Season 4’s theatrical run, complicating matters for many fans.

Season 5 marks a significant chapter in the narrative of Jesus Christ, as it will delve into the intense moments of Holy Week. Viewers can expect to see the events leading up to his arrest in the Garden of Gethsemane, crucially setting the stage for his crucifixion, which will unfold in Season 6.

Despite the overall positive feedback surrounding Season 4, a primary point of contention was its theatrical exclusivity from February to March, culminating in a special Easter weekend release. This left many fans frustrated due to the prolonged delay before the episodes became available for streaming.

Season 5’s Theatrical Release Strategy

Jonathan Roumie as Jesus in The Chosen Season 5 — The Chosen

Season 5, aptly titled ‘Last Supper,’ is slated for a theatrical release in three parts over four weeks, beginning with the first two episodes on March 27, 2025, in the United States and Canada.

International audiences, including those in regions such as the UK, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, and India, will have to wait until April 10 for a similar release schedule. After completing its cinema run, the series will eventually be made available for streaming later in 2025, yet specific dates remain undisclosed.

This staggered rollout means that North American viewers have the opportunity to experience The Chosen ahead of audiences in other countries, provided they are able to attend a movie theater.

The Necessity of a Theatrical Release for Season 5

Given the circumstances, it’s understandable why many fans harbor feelings of frustration. Previously, The Chosen was accessible for free via the official app and website, including prior support from Angel Studios. Now, those eager to watch the newest episodes as soon as possible must purchase cinema tickets.

Additionally, the staggered release creates a dilemma for fans wishing to participate in discussions online. With some viewers potentially seeing the new episodes early, spoilers are likely to spread across social media and Reddit, diminishing the experience for others who prefer to wait for streaming.

A Reddit user expressed their disappointment, stating, “It was planned that everyone could see Season 5 at the same time. This is no longer the case and I admit that I am disappointed.” Another chimed in, “I’m trying to be okay with it because I know they do this for the funding of future seasons, but I hate the whole theatrical release thing.”

Concerns are voiced from those who missed earlier theatrical showings, lamenting that the format may hinder their viewing of subsequent episodes. One viewer noted, “If I could have caught up in the app I would have loved to see the others in theaters. I just think it could be handled better for the folks that can’t make it to the theaters but have supported monetarily from day one.”

Nevertheless, there are practical reasons behind this approach. The Chosen Season 4 achieved significant box office success, grossing over $30 million globally, highlighting the financial viability of theatrical releases for such a series.

Moreover, funding the production becomes critical. As noted by series creator Dallas Jenkins, fewer than 5% of viewers actually contribute monetarily to support the show despite its massive following. The financial success of Season 5 is essential, as the production of Seasons 6 and 7 is still pending substantial funding—a challenge backed by the non-profit organization Come and See.

Given the circumstances, hosting The Chosen in theaters presents a profitable opportunity that is difficult to forgo. For fans unable to attend screenings, it is advisable to limit exposure to social media and related content to avoid any potential spoilers once Season 5 debuts.

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