Fox News Faces Backlash Over Repurposed Jesus Podcast Featuring Unwitting Stars

Fox News Media announced a major new religious podcast this week. The project features Ainsley Earhardt and over 100 actors, including Kristen Bell. The network failed to disclose that the celebrity audio was recorded 15 years ago for a different project.

Several actors were blindsided by the announcement. According to Rolling Stone, their representatives were never consulted about the repurposed content. This has sparked controversy over the network’s promotional tactics.

Kristen Bell Learned of Fox Faith Podcast Just One Day Before Launch

Kristen Bell’s team received a surprise request for an appearance on Fox & Friends. The invitation came just one day before the official podcast announcement. Her representative confirmed she had not granted permission for the old recording to be reused.

Bell originally voiced Mary Magdalene for a 2010 audiobook titled “The Truth and Life Dramatized Audio Bible.” Fox Faith is now licensing this content through Gulfstream Studios. The network is presenting the old material as a new, original podcast series.

Multiple High-Profile Actors Were Unaware of Repurposed Roles

Other major stars involved include Brian Cox, Sean Astin, and John Rhys-Davies. A representative for Rhys-Davies also confirmed the actor only learned of the project this week. This suggests a widespread lack of communication from the network and its partners.

Brian Cox, who voices God, has previously been critical of Fox News. He once called the network “the devil.” His involvement in a Fox Faith project is therefore particularly surprising.

A producer associated with the podcast asked talent to keep the project’s age a secret. A note obtained by Rolling Stone requested they not mention the audio was produced years ago. The clear intent was to make it feel like a recent production.

The first episodes of “The Life of Jesus Podcast” are scheduled for release on November 30. The controversy raises significant questions about content licensing and artist rights in the digital age.

The repurposing of the 15-year-old audio Bible has created an unexpected scandal for Fox Faith. This situation highlights the critical importance of transparency in media partnerships. The Fox News Jesus podcast launch is now overshadowed by these ethical concerns.

Thought you’d like to know

What is “The Life of Jesus Podcast”?

It is a 52-episode series presented by Fox Faith. The network describes it as a guide through the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. It is hosted by Fox & Friends personality Ainsley Earhardt.

Why are actors like Kristen Bell upset?

They recorded their audio parts for a completely different project in 2010. They did not give permission for Fox News to use their performances in a new podcast. Many were unaware of the repurposing until the public announcement.

What was the original project the audio came from?

The audio was originally for “The Truth and Life Dramatized Audio Bible.” This was a New Testament audiobook released over a decade ago. It featured the same ensemble cast of celebrity voices.

How has Fox News responded to the controversy?

Fox News Media has not issued a public statement addressing the actors’ concerns. Rolling Stone reports their requests for comment have not been answered. The network is proceeding with the late November launch.

Who is producing the podcast for Fox Faith?

The content is being licensed to Fox Faith through Gulfstream Studios. A producer from the original 2010 audio Bible is involved in the new podcast. This partnership facilitated the acquisition of the old recordings.