Hollywood actor Chris Pratt is taking on a different kind of adventure, one that trades intergalactic battles and dinosaur encounters for a journey into ancient history. The star is currently filming a documentary that explores the Vatican Necropolis, an underground burial site beneath St. Peter’s Basilica that holds centuries of sacred history.
The documentary, scheduled for release in 2026, will coincide with the 400th anniversary of St. Peter’s Basilica’s dedication. Chris Pratt will serve as the guide, taking viewers through the depths of Vatican City where tombs from the first to fourth century A.D. rest between 16 and 39 feet below the basilica’s floor.
A collaboration with Vatican Media
This project represents a unique partnership between Vatican Media, the Fabric of St. Peter, and AF Films. Pratt expressed his appreciation for the opportunity in a statement to Vatican News, calling it an extraordinary honor to work alongside Pope Leo and Vatican officials on bringing St. Peter’s story to audiences worldwide.
The film aims to blend faith, historical evidence, and archaeological findings to tell the story of St. Peter’s final resting place. While Pratt isn’t Catholic himself, he regularly attends Mass with his wife, Katherine Schwarzenegger, who is a practicing Catholic. The couple is raising their children in the Catholic faith, and Pratt has been vocal about his spiritual life, including partnerships with Hallow, a Catholic prayer app.
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The discovery of St. Peter’s tomb
The documentary will highlight one of the most significant archaeological discoveries in Vatican history. In 1939, Pope Pius XII ordered excavations beneath the basilica to locate St. Peter’s burial site. After years of careful work, the tomb’s location was officially announced in 1950, along with bone fragments believed to belong to the apostle.
The verification process continued for nearly two decades. In 1968, Pope Paul VI confirmed that the discovered bone fragments were indeed St. Peter’s remains. These relics were later displayed publicly for the first time in 2013 by Pope Francis during a Mass marking the conclusion of the Year of Faith.
The 2026 release will offer viewers an inside look at this sacred space, combining Pratt’s storytelling abilities with expert historical and archaeological perspectives.
Stay connected with Geek Realm Hub for more updates on this documentary and other fascinating stories where pop culture meets history.