Hollywood actor Chris Pratt is filming and hosting a documentary about the tomb of Saint Peter, which lies underneath St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City.
The release is slated for 2026 to coincide with the 400th anniversary of the dedication of St. Peter’s Basilica, which replaced a church built in the 300s.
The documentary will tell the history of St. Peter’s tomb and discuss its spiritual significance. In the early 300s, Emperor Constantine ordered that a basilica be built on the spot Catholic tradition had long held to be St. Peter’s final resting place. The first Pope was martyred in the city in 64.
In the 20th century, the Vatican undertook archaeological and scientific work in hopes of discovering and verifying the apostle’s tomb. According to Deadline, Pope Pius XII announced in 1950 that researchers had likely identified St. Peter’s tomb. After about 18 years of research, Pope Paul VI made another announcement.
“The relics of Peter have been identified in a way that we can consider convincing,” Pope Paul said in 1968, according to Deadline. “We have reason to believe that the few, but sacrosanct, mortal remains of the Prince of the Apostles have been found.”
Pratt, who is Christian, told Vatican News he is honored to partner with Pope Leo and the Vatican on the project.
“St. Peter’s story is foundational to the Christian faith, and I’m deeply grateful for the trust and access granted to help bring his legacy to the screen,” he said.
Andrea Tornielli, a Catholic journalist who has penned numerous books about Catholic figures, wrote the screenplay. Pietro Zande, a researcher who regularly works with the Vatican, assisted Tornielli.
Paula Ortiz is the documentary’s director. Ortiz isn’t Christian, but she recently directed a Spanish-language film about Saint Teresa of Ávila that was positively reviewed by some Catholic critics, even as they noted perceived limitations.
The documentary is produced by Vatican Media, the Fabric of St. Peter, and AF Films.
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