For Jesse Hutch, faith is at the center of every decision he makes—from the roles he takes on to how he leads his family. Yet, the actor resists being categorized as a “Christian actor,” choosing instead to let his life and work speak to his identity in Christ.

“My faith highly influences everything in my life,” Hutch shared in an interview with The Christian Post. “It helps me decide how I make choices in my marriage, how to be a parent, how to handle my finances, and ultimately, how to be an actor… and a human being on set.”

Despite this foundational role of faith, the 43-year-old actor says he doesn’t want to be boxed into a single label. “I’m an actor, I’m a father, I’m a husband… there are a lot of labels you could put on me, but at the end of the day, God, Jesus Christ, is my leader. That’s where it starts, and everything else flows from that.”

Hutch’s deep faith is evident in his latest project, Homestead, which hits theaters on December 20. Produced by Angel Studios, the film explores themes of resilience, family, and hope amid a post-apocalyptic world. Hutch plays Evan Lee, an ex-Green Beret navigating the chaos of a nation on the brink of collapse.

“I’ve been calling this a present-day post-apocalyptic movie because it feels close and personal,” Hutch explained. “But it’s not a movie based on fear. It’s filled with themes that provide hope and encourage viewers to reflect on their own lives.”

The project, which will later transition into a TV series, also features Neal McDonough, Dawn Olivieri, and Olivia Sanabia. It’s based on the novel Black Autumn by Jason Kirkham and Jason Ross and follows a group of survivors escaping to a mountain fortress after a nuclear attack plunges the country into chaos.

Hutch describes Evan Lee as a “grounded” character who embodies compassion and stability. “He’s someone who reads the room, helps people find their way, and walks alongside them through their struggles. He’s not forceful but honest, and that’s what drew me to him.”

For Hutch, Homestead isn’t just another role—it reflects his own values. As a husband and father, he finds the film’s focus on family and self-sufficiency deeply relatable. In a world increasingly defined by technological advancements and modern stress, Hutch believes the film’s message is a call to return to simplicity.

“Can I grow my own food? Can I live on land? Can I take life into my own hands and be responsible for how I run my family and live my life?” Hutch asked. “Sometimes, you need to step back, breathe, and just be in the moment. Watch the sunset, pick an apple, sit down with someone and have a conversation.”

Hutch’s life journey has prepared him for roles that require grit and perseverance. From nearly drowning at 19 to surviving multiple accidents, his experiences have shaped his outlook on resilience and faith.

“I’ve learned to embrace a mourning period when faced with challenges. Feel it, process it, but then shift your focus and move forward,” he said. “Resilience isn’t about avoiding pain; it’s about growing through it.”

These lessons continue to influence his daily walk with God. “Be open to learning,” Hutch shared. “Never have the mentality that you’ve made it or know everything. God keeps teaching me new things every day.”

In an industry often defined by fame and material success, Hutch sees his career as an opportunity to connect with others. While he’s passionate about his craft, he believes the relationships he forms on set hold greater significance.

“What’s really exciting is: Who am I going to be working with? What are they going through?” Hutch said. “The most important currency, I think, is time. If someone’s willing to tell you a story about their life, just listen. That could be one of the best things you do that day—for them and for yourself.”