10/17/2026
Hollywood actor Chris Pratt is teaming up with the Vatican and Pope Leo XIV for an extraordinary new documentary exploring the tomb of Saint Peter, the first Pope. ✝️🇻🇦
Best known for his roles in Guardians of the Galaxy and Jurassic World, Pratt is taking audiences on a journey beneath St. Peter's Basilica in Rome to explore one of Christianity's most sacred archaeological sites.
The documentary, titled PĂ©tros enĂ: Discovering the Origins, is directed by Spanish filmmaker Paula Ortiz and produced in collaboration with Vatican Media, the Fabric of St. Peter, and AF Films.
And there's an incredible detail: Pope Leo XIV himself makes a special appearance in the documentary.
The film takes viewers deep into the Vatican Necropolis, the ancient burial ground beneath St. Peter's Basilica, where archaeologists uncovered a tomb traditionally identified as the burial place of Saint Peter.
According to Christian tradition, Peter was martyred in Rome during the reign of Emperor Nero and buried on Vatican Hill.
Centuries later, Emperor Constantine ordered the construction of the original St. Peter's Basilica over the site associated with the Apostle's grave.
In 1950, Pope Pius XII announced the discovery of the tomb, and in 1968, Pope Paul VI declared that human remains believed to belong to Saint Peter had been identified.
Now, nearly 2,000 years after Peter's martyrdom, one of Hollywood's biggest stars is helping bring his extraordinary story to a worldwide audience.
Chris Pratt described the opportunity as an incredible honor, expressing gratitude for the trust and access granted by the Vatican.
The documentary will receive a special preview at the Rome Film Festival on October 16, 2026, as part of the celebrations marking 400 years since the consecration of the present St. Peter's Basilica.
From a humble fisherman in Galilee to the Apostle entrusted by Jesus Christ with the keys of the Kingdom of Heaven, Saint Peter's legacy continues to inspire Christians across the world.
“Thou art Peter; and upon this rock I will build my church.” — Matthew 16:18
What an extraordinary story to bring to the screen.
Saint Peter, Prince of the Apostles, pray for us! ✝️
