UPtv presents The Thorn, a powerful new interpretation of the greatest story ever told, bringing fresh perspective to the Passion narrative through breathtaking performances and stunning cinematography. This Easter special reimagines the final days of Christ through the eyes of John the Beloved (Jim Miles), blending biblical authenticity with emotional storytelling that will resonate with modern audiences. From the triumphant entry into Jerusalem to the transformative resurrection, The Thorn explores both the divine sacrifice and very human relationships at the heart of Christianity’s foundational story.
Featuring a diverse cast of stage veterans and fresh faces, this production elevates the traditional passion play format with intimate character moments and grand-scale spectacle. The film’s unique framing device—seen through the memories of an aging John—adds profound layers to familiar events, while its inclusive casting reflects the universality of its message. With its soul-stirring musical score and awe-inspiring production design, The Thorn promises to become a new Easter tradition for families seeking meaningful holiday viewing.
Meet the Cast of The Thorn
1: Adam Bond as Jesus
British stage sensation Adam Bond makes his screen debut as Jesus, bringing both ethereal grace and deeply human vulnerability to the role. Bond, known for his Olivier-nominated performance in The Judas Kiss, spent months studying ancient Aramaic to deliver the Sermon on the Mount in its original language. His physical transformation—including growing out his hair and beard for eighteen months—creates one of the most authentic visual portrayals of Christ in recent memory.
Bond’s interpretation shines in quiet moments, particularly a tender Gethsemane scene where his whispered prayers feel heartbreakingly intimate. His chemistry with Jim Miles’ John makes their final exchange at the cross devastatingly beautiful.
2: Jim Miles as John the Beloved
Jim Miles (The Chosen, A.D. The Bible Continues) delivers a career-defining performance as the older John reflecting on his experiences with Jesus. Miles’ portrayal captures the disciple’s evolution from fiery youth to contemplative elder—his narration frames the film with poetic gravitas. The actor’s real-life background as a pastor informs his deeply nuanced performance.
Watch for his showstopping monologue about the meaning of love, delivered against crashing waves on Patmos—a scene that required 27 takes to capture the perfect sunset light.
3: Carter Rockwood as Ashur
Broadway’s Carter Rockwood (Les Misérables) brings powerful presence as Ashur, an original character representing the Roman centurion who recognizes Christ’s divinity. Rockwood’s soaring baritone voice enhances the film’s musical moments, particularly during the crucifixion sequence where his character’s transformation occurs.
The actor’s military training (he served in the Army Reserve) lends authenticity to his sword fights and marching scenes. His silent breakdown after the earthquake is one of the film’s most moving non-verbal performances.
4: Jack Anderson as Young John
Teen actor Jack Anderson makes an impressive debut as the younger version of John, capturing the disciple’s passionate zeal and gradual maturation. Anderson’s natural chemistry with Bond creates believable mentor-protégé dynamics—their fishing scene on Galilee feels refreshingly spontaneous.
The young actor undertook intensive biblical studies to understand first-century Jewish life, even learning basic boat navigation for the fishing sequences. His final run to the empty tomb is shot in one breathtaking continuous take.
5: Grace Mae Bell as Mary Magdalene
Grace Mae Bell (The Wingfeather Saga) delivers a revelatory performance as Mary Magdalene, portraying her as a woman of profound strength and devotion. Bell’s interpretation emphasizes Mary’s leadership among the disciples, particularly in a stirring scene where she mediates a dispute about Jesus’ teachings.
The actress collaborated with biblical scholars to incorporate authentic first-century feminine gestures into her performance. Her recognition of the risen Christ in the garden will leave audiences breathless.
6: Tate Bolin as Jesus (12 Years)
Child actor Tate Bolin (The Lion King national tour) appears in flashbacks as the young Jesus astonishing the temple scholars. Bolin’s uncanny resemblance to Bond (achieved through subtle prosthetics) creates seamless continuity between the portrayals.
His recitation of Isaiah—delivered entirely in Hebrew—is a technical marvel that required six months of language coaching. The young actor’s composure during this complex scene belies his age.
7: Sterling Bradshaw as Roman Soldier
Stunt performer-turned-actor Sterling Bradshaw brings terrifying physicality to the lead Roman soldier overseeing the crucifixion. Bradshaw’s 6’5″ frame and martial arts background make his scenes viscerally intense, particularly the flogging sequence which uses clever camera angles to suggest violence without graphic depiction.
The actor revealed he based his performance on historical accounts of Roman military discipline, creating a villain who believes he’s maintaining order rather than committing evil.
8: Jamie Calcara as Pharisee
Character actor Jamie Calcara (The Passion: New Orleans) provides nuanced antagonism as the primary Pharisee confronting Jesus. Calcara avoids cartoonish villainy, instead showing a man genuinely convinced he’s protecting Jewish tradition. His theological debates with Jesus crackle with intellectual tension.
The actor’s background as a seminary student informs his character’s scriptural quotations—all delivered from memory in Hebrew without cue cards.
9: Carlos ‘SparXz’ Caraballo as Gabriel
Hip-hop dancer Carlos ‘SparXz’ Caraballo makes his acting debut as the angel Gabriel in the resurrection sequence. His breathtaking aerial choreography (performed on wires) reimagines angelic movement as fluid, powerful dance.
The filmmakers incorporated Caraballo’s signature popping style into the earthquake effects, creating a supernatural physicality unlike any previous biblical film. His wordless performance speaks volumes.
10: Desiree Coffey as Mary of Bethany
Gospel singer Desiree Coffey brings soulful depth to Mary of Bethany, particularly in the anointing scene where her character’s worship becomes a musical moment. Coffey’s original song “Broken Alabaster” (which she composed for the film) provides its emotional climax.
The sequence where she washes Jesus’ feet required 15 takes to perfect the lighting of 1,000 real candles—a technical feat that results in one of cinema’s most stunning depictions of this biblical event.
The Thorn blossoms on UPtv this Easter Sunday, April 13, 2025. More than a retelling, this is an immersive experience that will renew audiences’ appreciation for the Passion story through its extraordinary performances and artistic vision. Don’t miss the post-show discussion special featuring biblical scholars and the cast’s faith journeys.
