Faith guides him, not titles.
For actor Jesse Hutch, his faith is the cornerstone of his life and work. It influences his decisions on everything from his family relationships to his professional choices. However, Hutch is quick to clarify that he rejects being pigeonholed as a “Christian actor.”
“My faith impacts every aspect of my life,” the 43-year-old actor shared with The Christian Post. “It shapes how I approach my marriage, how I raise my children, how I manage my finances, and, ultimately, how I approach my craft as an actor—and how I conduct myself on set.”
“Faith is incredibly important to me,” he continued. “It’s not just a label or something I casually adopt. It’s the foundation of who I am. I’m not just a ‘Christian actor.’ I’m an actor, a father, a husband, a brother, and many other things. But at the core of it all, Jesus Christ is my leader. That’s where it all starts, and everything else flows from that.”
Hutch’s faith played a role in his decision to take on his latest project, Homestead, which is set to hit theaters on December 20. Produced by Angel Studios, the film blends post-apocalyptic tension with themes of hope, faith, and family. Hutch stars as Evan Lee, an ex-Green Beret trying to survive in a collapsing world.
“I call this a present-day post-apocalyptic movie,” Hutch explained. “It feels very close to home, and it’s not just about fear. It’s a movie that offers hope, encouraging viewers to reflect on their lives and what really matters.”
The film will transition into a TV series and is based on the novel Black Autumn by Jason Kirkham and Jason Ross. It follows the aftermath of a nuclear attack on Los Angeles, which plunges the country into chaos. As society crumbles, the protagonist, Jeff Eriksson, along with his family, seeks refuge in “The Homestead,” a prepper’s sanctuary in the mountains. With danger closing in, they face both external threats and internal struggles.
Hutch’s character, Evan Lee, is a calming and resilient presence in the midst of the chaos. “Evan is someone who is grounded,” Hutch said. “He reads the room and helps others find their way through their struggles. He’s honest and compassionate but not forceful, which is what drew me to the role.”
The themes of family and survival resonated deeply with Hutch, especially as he views his own role as a husband and father as his most significant calling. “This story reminds us to return to basics,” he reflected. “Can I grow my own food? Can I live self-sufficiently? It’s about taking control of your life, your family, and your responsibilities—and also about being present in the moment.”
Hutch’s own life experiences, including surviving near-death incidents, have given him a deeper understanding of resilience. “I’ve learned that resilience is not about avoiding pain; it’s about growing through it,” he said. “When life challenges you, you feel it, process it, and then keep moving forward. I’m still learning from those experiences every day.”
In an industry often focused on fame and material success, Hutch remains grounded in his desire to connect with others on a deeper level. “Making a movie is important, but what really excites me is the people I get to work with,” he said. “I want to know their stories, what they’re going through, and spend time with them. Time is the most valuable currency, and it’s a privilege to be part of someone else’s journey, even for a short time.”
“Listening to others and being present in their lives can be one of the best things you do for both them and yourself,” he added.