Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas premieres tonight, December 9, 2025, on ABC from 8–10 p.m. ET. The two-hour holiday special blends documentary filmmaking with dramatic reenactments to revisit the Nativity story through a modern, emotionally grounded lens. With Costner narrating and guiding viewers through the journey of Mary and Joseph, the production aims to deliver a meaningful, family-friendly Christmas experience.
The special highlights the hardships surrounding Jesus’s birth—often overlooked in traditional retellings. Costner’s narration provides structure and gravitas, framing the story with historical context and emotional clarity. His signature storytelling presence helps elevate key moments, from the couple’s difficult travel to Bethlehem to their unwavering faith in the face of uncertainty.
Gia Rose Patel portrays Mary, offering a fresh and youthful perspective on a character deeply rooted in global tradition. Ethan Thorne appears as Joseph, bringing steadiness and vulnerability to the role. Together, their performances emphasize the human side of two iconic biblical figures. Anthony Barclay as King Herod and Saif Al-Warith as Angel Gabriel round out the supporting cast, adding depth and resonance to the narrative.
Directed by David L. Cunningham and produced by Warm Springs Productions and Ozz Films, the special aims to strike a balance between reverence and cinematic engagement. Cunningham’s approach aligns documentary-style interviews, expert commentary, and sweeping dramatizations to create a visually immersive experience suitable for both faith-based and secular audiences.
The hybrid storytelling format sets this production apart from conventional Christmas programming. Rather than relying solely on pageantry or dramatization, the special incorporates historical insights that illuminate the real-world challenges Mary and Joseph likely faced. The goal is to provide viewers with a fuller, more grounded understanding of the Nativity—an event central to Western culture for nearly two millennia.
For families seeking heart-centered holiday content, this special offers a thoughtfully crafted option. It avoids modern comedic tropes and instead focuses on the courage, sacrifice, and devotion that define the original Christmas story. Whether one approaches the Nativity from a religious, historical, or cultural perspective, The First Christmas invites meaningful reflection.
Where to Watch
ABC: Tonight, December 9 at 8 p.m. ET / 7 p.m. CT
Disney+: Streaming from December 10
Hulu: Streaming from December 10
As viewers gather for holiday entertainment, Kevin Costner’s narration and the ensemble’s polished performances promise a compelling retelling of one of history’s most significant events. With its blend of cinematic warmth and documentary insight, The First Christmas stands out as a must-watch this season.
