Grammy-nominated music producer Adam Anders, best known for his work on the hit television series Glee, has found a renewed calling in faith-based filmmaking. After decades in Hollywood, Anders stepped into a new realm with the 2023 musical Journey to Bethlehem, a project he says was divinely inspired and marks a turning point in his career.

“My life changed completely with this movie, and I’m on a completely different track,” Anders shared in an interview with Crosswalk Headlines.

For years, Anders thrived in the entertainment industry. As executive music producer for Glee, which aired from 2009 to 2015, he oversaw the music behind one of television’s most celebrated series, earning multiple Emmy wins and Grammy nominations. His work extended to projects like Rock of Ages and faith-based productions such as The Passion (2016) and Son of God (2014).

But Anders’ faith, instilled in him during his childhood when he traveled with his missionary parents, always guided his path. “My faith guides everything I do,” he said. “I’ve lived in L.A. for 20 years, making movies out there, learning the craft, and trying to be salt and light.”

In Journey to Bethlehem, Anders took on the role of theatrical film director for the first time. The film, which tells the biblical story of Mary and Joseph, combines music and faith to reach audiences far beyond the church.

“We need movies that shine a light in this darkness,” Anders explained. “It’s really rewarding to see how many non-believers have found this movie saying it changed their lives. And that’s why I did it.”

The idea for Journey to Bethlehem was born nearly two decades ago during a family Christmas gathering. Anders realized there was a lack of family-friendly films that pointed to the true meaning of Christmas.

“God kind of planted that idea a long time ago,” he said, “and then it took me 17 years to actually bring it to fruition. I had to learn how to make a movie.”

That patience and preparation paid off. The film’s original song, We Become We, went viral on TikTok, drawing interest even from skeptics. “People are like, ‘I have to go see this movie. I’m an atheist. I’m gonna go see it anyway.'”

Anders’ goal isn’t just to entertain but to create a bridge for all audiences to encounter the gospel. “Whether you are a believer or not, you can sit down—grandparents, parents, kids—and watch it, enjoy it, whether you believe it or not, and be pointed to the gospel,” he said.

Music, he believes, plays a pivotal role. “Music is such a powerful force to penetrate and get past defenses,” he explained. “Great music will pull people in, and we’ve seen that.”

While Anders continues to celebrate the success of Journey to Bethlehem, which earned a Dove Award nomination, he is already working on new projects, including a thriller and another musical.

Reflecting on the journey that led him here, Anders sees God’s hand in every step. “When I was on set directing this movie, I knew I had found my calling,” he said. “It took me 40-something years to find it, but God’s been molding me, teaching me how to do this.”

For Anders, the shift from mainstream Hollywood to faith-based filmmaking is more than a career move—it’s a mission. “I’ve been very blessed with a great career, and to take a big shift and walk away from that career, to take a risk like this… it’s pretty amazing. God’s been preparing me for this my whole life.”

With a heart set on reaching beyond the church walls, Anders is determined to use his gifts to shine a light in a dark culture.