Director Mel Gibson warned Caviezel that he might become a Hollywood outcast by taking on the role of Christ. Caviezel replied: "Mel, this is what I believe. We all have a cross to carry. I have to carry my own cross. If we don't carry our crosses, we are going to be crushed under the weight of it. So let's go and do it." The star later revealed he did feel
shunned by Hollywood for having taken the role.
Photo by Philippe Antonello. - © 2003 Icon Distribution Inc.