Aliza Barlow Steps Into the Role of Anne Wilson in ‘My Jesus’ Film

A new film adaptation of Anne Wilson’s chart‑topping single “My Jesus” is set to begin production next month, bringing the story from song to screen. The project, produced by Kingdom Story Company in partnership with Lionsgate, will feature Aliza Kate Barlow in her feature debut as the Christian country singer.

Kay Oyegun will write and direct, marking her first time behind the camera.

Wilson’s hit “My Jesus” dominated Hot Christian Songs chart, topping it for several weeks, and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Christian Music Album.

The track also spent seven weeks at No. 1 on the Christian Airplay chart, making Wilson the first female solo artist to lead that chart with a debut single since its inception in 2003. These accolades underscore the cultural impact of the song and set high expectations for its cinematic adaptation.

The film’s narrative will how Anne’s online video attracts attention from record executives, propelling her into the spotlight.

In the film, Barlow portrays Anne, while Gavin Casalegno takes on the role of her brother Jacob. Monica Potter plays mother Lynn, Charles Esten depicts father Kent, and Beau Bridges portrays grandfather Bob. This ensemble brings together talent from both music and film backgrounds to tell a story of faith, family and personal growth.

Their performances aim to bring authenticity to each character while exploring the dynamics of a faith‑driven family.

## Background & Context

Kay Oyegun adapted Anne Wilson’s memoir, My Jesus: From Heartache to Hope, into a screenplay that will become the film’s backbone. She will also direct the movie, making this her debut as a feature‑film director. Kay Oyegun, whose previous work includes executive producing This Is Us, brings a fresh perspective to Christian cinema.

The story follows a regular teenager who, after a life‑altering moment, posts an online video of herself singing. The clip sparks widespread attention from Christian and country music executives, forcing Anne to navigate the ripple effects on her family and friends.

Along the way, she redefines her sense of self, her relationship with God, and ultimately her purpose.

“Anne’s story is the ultimate wish fulfillment story—a regular girl finds a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to share her gift with the world—but what sets her story apart is that her true gift is the power of faith, family, friendship, love, and devotion,” said Erin Westerman.

“Her journey isn’t just evocative and emotional—it shows how trusting that faith changed her life in every way,” she added.

## Cast & Crew Highlights

Aliza Kate Barlow, a Birmingham‑born singer‑songwriter whose music has amassed more than two million streams on Apple Music and Spotify, will play Anne.

Casalegno, known for The Summer I Turned Pretty, portrays Jacob; Potter, with roles in Con Air and Parenthood, appears as Lynn; Esten, famed for Nashville and Outer Banks, plays Kent; Bridges, an Emmy winner from Matlock, assumes the role of Bob.

Producers Joshua Walsh, Brandon Gregory, Andrew Erwin and Daryl LeFever will helm the project for Kingdom Story Company. Executive producers include Jim Miller, Matthew West and Robert Deaton, while Meredith Wieck and Maria Ascanio oversee production for Lionsgate.

Barlow is represented by Artium Talent, Authentic Talent & Literary Management and Jackoway Austen Tyerman; Casalegno by UTA, Luber Rocklin and Skrzyniarz & Mallean; Potter by Gersh and Pop Art Management; Esten by Artists & Representatives; Bridges by CAA.

Oyegun, the writer‑director of This Is Us and Imperfect Women, is represented by Underground and Goodman, Genow, Schenkman.

## Production & Release Outlook

The film will commence shooting next month under the banner of Kingdom Story Company in collaboration with Lionsgate. The partnership brings together the experience of Lionsgate Motion Picture Group and Kingdom’s track record in faith‑based storytelling, such as I Can Only Imagine and Jesus Revolution.

“We couldn’t be more honored to bring Anne’s story to the big screen with Kay and this talented cast,” said Brandon Gregory.

“Working alongside our incredible partners at Lionsgate to deliver an experience that feels fresh, entertaining, and deeply authentic is beyond exciting for all of us at Kingdom Story Company.” Brandon Gregory added that the collaboration with Lionsgate is designed to reach audiences who desire authentic storytelling.

While the exact release date has not yet been announced, production schedules suggest a mid‑2025 release window. The studio plans to align the film’s debut with the growing demand for faith‑based cinema that resonates with younger audiences.

Fans of the song can look forward to seeing Anne Wilson’s story translated into a visual medium that emphasizes community, faith and authenticity.

With a star‑studded cast, seasoned production team and a story rooted in real musical success, the upcoming “My Jesus” film promises to bring Anne Wilson’s inspirational journey to the silver screen, offering audiences a blend of heartfelt narrative and uplifting faith.

The project reflects a growing trend of faith‑based films finding mainstream appeal through compelling storytelling and relatable characters.