In a world full of flashy holiday specials and feel-good movies, something truly special arrived in 2025. Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas brings the timeless Nativity story to life in a way that’s both reverent and realistic. Hosted and narrated by Academy Award-winning actor Kevin Costner, this ABC holiday special dives deep into the birth of Jesus Christ, focusing on the real struggles of Mary and Joseph.
This isn’t your typical Christmas pageant with cute kids in costumes. It’s a thoughtful blend of dramatic reenactments, historical insights, and personal reflections that reminds us why Christmas matters. Whether you’re a lifelong believer or just curious about the origins of the holiday, this special offers a grounded perspective on the events that changed history.
Premiering on ABC in December 2025 and now streaming on Hulu and Disney+, the program has earned praise for keeping “Christ in Christmas” while delivering high production values reminiscent of series like The Chosen. Let’s explore what makes this special stand out.
What Is Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas?
Released as a primetime television special, Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas is a 90-minute (approximately 1 hour 25 minutes runtime) docudrama directed by David L. Cunningham. It combines cinematic storytelling with expert commentary to retell the biblical account of Jesus’ birth.
Kevin Costner serves as host and narrator, sharing personal anecdotes from his own childhood involvement in church Nativity plays. He guides viewers through the story, emphasizing the human elements often overlooked in traditional retellings.
Filmed in Morocco to capture authentic ancient landscapes, the special features stunning visuals and a cast portraying key figures in a raw, emotional way. It’s not overly sentimental—viewers get a glimpse of the gritty realities of first-century Judea under Roman rule and King Herod’s tyranny.
The production stays faithful to Scripture while incorporating educated historical context. Scholars from Catholic and Protestant backgrounds provide insights, making it accessible and informative for a broad audience.
Kevin Costner’s Personal Connection to the Nativity Story
Kevin Costner doesn’t just narrate—he brings heart to the project. He opens the special by recalling his first “acting gig” at age 4: playing a shepherd in his church’s annual Nativity production, with the single line “Hark!”
Growing up in a faith-filled home, Costner watched his mother sing in the church choir and absorbed Bible stories early on. In interviews, he described the special as a chance to “reinvest in the story that’s managed to endure all these centuries.”
Costner has spoken openly about how faith helps during life’s challenges. “I’ve had tremendous ups, and I’ve been bruised equally,” he shared. Working on this project reminded him of hope amid adversity, much like Mary and Joseph’s journey.
His calm, authentic narration style draws comparisons to classic storytellers, making complex historical and spiritual ideas feel approachable.
Key Elements of the Nativity Story Explored
The special covers the full biblical Nativity narrative from the Gospels of Matthew and Luke, but expands on details rarely shown in holiday pageants.
The Announcement and Early Struggles
It begins with the angel Gabriel’s visits to Mary and Joseph. Viewers see Mary’s fear as an unwed pregnant teenager facing social stigma, and Joseph’s internal conflict before accepting his role.
The Journey to Bethlehem
The arduous travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem is depicted realistically—a long, dangerous trek for a young pregnant couple under Roman census orders.
The Birth of Jesus
Contrary to common depictions of a wooden barn, the special portrays Jesus’ birth in a cave-like stable, aligning with historical evidence from the era.
Shepherds and Angels
The heavenly announcement to shepherds and their visit to the manger capture awe and wonder.
The Magi and Herod’s Threat
Unlike many stories that compress timelines, this one clarifies the Magi’s visit happened later. It includes King Herod’s paranoia and the massacre of innocents, leading to the Holy Family’s flight to Egypt.
These elements highlight themes of faith, perseverance, danger, and divine protection.
Here’s a quick timeline comparison:
| Event | Traditional Pageant View | In The First Christmas Special |
|---|---|---|
| Birth Location | Wooden inn/barn | Cave stable (historically accurate) |
| Magi Arrival | Same night as birth | Months or years later |
| Herod’s Role | Often minimized | Central antagonist, showing political peril |
| Flight to Egypt | Rarely included | Key part, emphasizing family hardship |
Historical Accuracy and Expert Insights
One of the special’s strengths is its commitment to historical context. Theologians and biblical scholars intersperse the drama with explanations:
- Life under Roman occupation
- Jewish customs around marriage and birth
- King Herod’s brutal reign
- Travel conditions in ancient Judea
This approach educates without overwhelming, helping viewers appreciate the risks Mary and Joseph faced. It’s described as a “high-budget version of The Chosen” mixed with thoughtful historical commentary.
While some scenes use informed speculation to fill gaps, the core remains biblically faithful.
Cast and Production Highlights
- Kevin Costner: Host/Narrator
- Gia Patel (as Gia Rose Patel): Mary
- Ethan Thorne: Joseph
- Anthony Barclay: King Herod
- Supporting roles include Mohamed Zouaoui (Joachim), Saif Al-Warith (Angel Gabriel), and others bringing authenticity to the ancient world.
Directed by David L. Cunningham, known for historical dramas, the production boasts cinematic quality. Morocco’s rugged terrain stands in for ancient Israel, adding visual depth.
Viewer Reception and Reviews
The special has an IMDb rating of 7.6/10 and positive feedback across platforms:
- “A masterpiece—historically accurate and moving.”
- “Kevin Costner was superb as narrator; learned things I never knew.”
- “Gritty yet reverent—keeps Christ central.”
- Comparisons to The Chosen for production value and emotional impact.
Some note intense scenes (Herod’s violence) make it better for older kids or families ready for deeper discussions.
How to Watch Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas
- Original Air Date: December 9, 2025, on ABC
- Streaming: Available on Hulu and Disney+ (since December 10, 2025)
- Perfect for holiday viewing—gather the family for a meaningful alternative to typical festive fare.
Why This Special Matters in Today’s World
In a season often dominated by shopping and lights, Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas refocuses on the “reason for the season.” It portrays faith as resilient amid hardship, offering hope for anyone facing challenges.
Costner sums it up: This story of a newborn King has endured because it speaks to inclusion, giving, and belief in something greater.
Whether you’re revisiting the Nativity or discovering it anew, this special invites reflection on joy, fear, and triumph intertwined—just like the original Christmas.
FAQs About Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas
1. Is Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas suitable for children?
It’s family-friendly overall but includes gritty violence (like Herod’s actions) and mature themes. Best for ages 10+ or with parental guidance for younger viewers.
2. How long is the special?
Approximately 1 hour 25 minutes (90 minutes including some segments).
3. Does it follow the Bible accurately?
Yes, it stays faithful to Scripture while adding historical context and minor speculative scenes for storytelling.
4. Where was it filmed?
Primarily in Morocco, chosen for its resemblance to ancient Judea.
5. Are there any controversial elements?
No major controversies—it’s praised for reverence. Some appreciate the inclusive scholarly input from different Christian traditions.
6. Can I watch it for free?
With a Hulu or Disney+ subscription. Check for trials or bundles.
7. How does it compare to The Chosen?
Similar high production and emotional depth, but focused solely on the Nativity with documentary elements.
8. What inspired Kevin Costner to do this?
His childhood church experiences and desire to share the enduring Nativity story in a fresh way.
9. Is there any singing or music?
It features a score but isn’t a musical—focus is on narration and drama.
10. Will there be more specials like this?
No announcements yet, but positive reception could inspire similar projects.
This holiday season, let Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas remind you of the profound story behind the celebrations. It’s more than entertainment—it’s an invitation to ponder faith, hope, and the miracle of that first Christmas night.
