"The Visitor" actor Haaz Sleiman will play the title character in the upcoming miniseries "Killing Jesus," and recently discussed the far-reaching significance of the role.
Sleiman, who was raised in the Islamic faith, explained Jesus' importance to Muslims when he addressed reporters at the Television Critics Association press tour in Pasadena on Wednesday.
"Islam believes that Jesus is a prophet, and they honour him — highly — and they respect him and they follow his teachings," Sleiman said. "So, for me, as somebody who was raised Muslim, it is an honour to actually play Jesus, just because of that."
The 34-year-old said that Jesus' messages of love, not judging others, and other teachings delivered him from a "dark relationship" he once had with himself.
"I also, myself, for the past 10 years, have been shaped by Jesus," he admitted. "I really believe in his teachings."
The actor also expressed a positive attitide when asked about the criticism that he and the show's executives have faced because of the casting choice.
Sleiman was born and raised in Lebanon, and moved to the United States when he was 21 years old. The actor was nominated for an Independent Spirit Award for his work on "The Visitor," and has also appeared on "Nurse Jackie," "Covert Affairs," and "24."
"Killing Jesus" is based on the best-selling book by television host Bill O'Reilly and Martin Dugard, and also stars Kelsey Grammer as King Herod and Stephen Moyer as Pontius Pilate. "Exodus: Gods and Kings" director Ridley Scott is one of the executive producers.
The three-hour event will depict the life and death of Jesus, and will air on the National Geographic Channel this year.
