Mark Wahlberg, a Bostonian known for his Christian beliefs and incredible acting talent, is now speaking out on his commitment to Christianity and how that faith has impacted his personal life and acting career.
A devout Catholic, Wahlberg told Fox News Digital in an interview that he overcame his struggles early in life with faith and that he thinks all of his achievements in life stem from his faith. In his words: “It’s just the most important aspect of my life.”
Continuing, Wahlberg added, “It’s the most important thing. It’s afforded me all the things that I’ve been able to accomplish in my life — my faith, my discipline.”
He also said, during his Fox News Digital interview, “I don’t know that it’s not popular. I just kind of focus on me again,” he said. “I don’t shy away from my faith, but I also don’t jam it down anybody’s throat.”
Continuing, he went on to say that he hopes God is a movie fan is okay with some of his more “questionable” roles, saying:
“I’ve always said that I hope God is a movie fan. I mean, I’ve made some movies, whether it be “Boogie Nights” or even “Ted” where, you know, they could be a bit questionable. But I also don’t want to compromise my artistic integrity. But as a parent and as a husband, those things definitely weigh into my decision-making. But I do like taking chances and risks. But I also was really proud of making a movie that was a love letter to my faith.”
Adding to his comments about “Father Stu,” Wahlberg said, “In these difficult times, we’re all dealing with struggle and loss, and mortality is inevitable.”
For reference, Sony Pictures notes that “Based on a true story, Father Stu is an unflinchingly honest, funny and uplifting story about finding purpose in a most unexpected place. After surviving a terrible motorcycle accident, Stuart Long (Mark Wahlberg) wonders if he can use his second chance to help others find their way — and leads this former amateur boxer to the surprising realization that he is meant to be a priest. Despite a devastating health crisis and the skepticism of Church officials and his estranged parents (Mel Gibson and Jacki Weaver), Stu pursues his vocation with courage and compassion, inspiring not only those closest to him but countless others along the way.”
This isn’t the first time that Wahlberg has spoken about his faith recently. Speaking to “Today” on Ash Wednesday, Wahlberg said, “It’s not popular in my industry, but, you know, I cannot deny my faith. It’s important for me to share that with people.“
Watch that here:
Wahlberg has also taken brave steps forward to secure his family’s future, moving away from Hollywood, California so that his kids could have a better life and not deal with the crime, degeneracy, drug use, and other problems that California, and Hollywood in particular, are known for.
Featured image credit: screengrab from the embedded YouTube video of Wahlberg on Ash Wednesday
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