So, it's actually happening. After the 2018 film I Can Only Imagine became a massive sleeper hit, pulling in over $83 million on a shoestring budget, people kept asking if there was more to the story. Turns out, there is. A lot more. But it isn't just about a hit song this time. The cast of I Can Only Imagine 2 is bringing to life the story behind "Even If," which is arguably MercyMe’s most vulnerable track ever.
Kingdom Story Company and Lionsgate have officially locked in a release date for February 20, 2026. This isn't just a "part two" for the sake of a franchise. It’s a continuation of Bart Millard’s actual life, focusing on what happens after you get everything you ever wanted, only to realize your personal life is still a bit of a wreck.
The Familiar Faces Returning
You can't really have a sequel to Bart's life without the guy who played him so perfectly the first time. John Michael Finley is back. Honestly, it would’ve been weird to see anyone else in the role. Finley’s performance in the first film was his breakout moment, and he’s spent the last few years staying pretty close to the project.
But here is where it gets interesting for the fans. Dennis Quaid is listed in the credits. Now, if you saw the first movie, you know Arthur Millard passed away. Quaid’s return as Arthur likely means we’re getting more than just a few flashbacks. The sequel is expected to deal heavily with how Bart’s past—and his relationship with his late father—colors the way he now raises his own son.
Trace Adkins is also returning as Scott Brickell, the band’s longtime manager. Adkins basically is the industry veteran at this point, so having him back provides that grounded, "no-nonsense" energy the first movie had.
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New Additions to the Cast of I Can Only Imagine 2
The biggest news in the casting department? Milo Ventimiglia. Yeah, the This Is Us star has joined the fold. He’s playing Tim Timmons, a real-life singer-songwriter who becomes a pivotal friend to Bart during a really dark season. Ventimiglia is known for playing the "emotional anchor" type of character, so he’s a perfect fit for a story about finding God in the middle of a literal fire.
Then there's the family dynamic. Sophie Skelton is taking over the role of Shannon Millard, Bart's wife. In the first film, Madeline Carroll played the younger version of Shannon. Now that the story has jumped forward to Bart’s years as a husband and father, Skelton (who many know from Outlander) steps in to handle the heavier, more mature themes of a marriage under pressure.
Arielle Kebbel has also signed on to play Hilary Timmons, and Sammy Dell will play Bart’s son, Sam. This is a big deal because the central conflict of the movie isn't just about the band. It’s about Sam’s health.
What Is the Sequel Actually About?
A lot of people think this is just a rehash. It's not.
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The plot centers on the creation of the song "Even If." If you've ever listened to the lyrics, you know it's not a happy-clappy worship song. It was written when Bart’s son, Sam, was struggling with a chronic illness. Bart was at the peak of his career—selling out arenas, winning awards—while at home, he was watching his kid suffer.
The movie explores that tension. How do you stand on a stage and tell thousands of people that God is good when you’re going home to a sick child? It's a raw look at "unanswered" prayers.
Director and Production Details
- Directors: Andrew Erwin and Brent McCorkle.
- Writer: Brent McCorkle.
- Producers: Kevin Downes, Jon Erwin, Cindy Bond, and Bart Millard himself.
- Filming Location: Much of the production took place in and around Nashville, Tennessee.
The Erwin brothers have basically become the gold standard for faith-based cinema. They don't do the "cheesy" stuff anymore. They want grit. They want real human emotion. By bringing in McCorkle to co-direct and write, they’re leaning into a more cinematic, visual style that worked so well in films like Jesus Revolution.
Why This Cast Matters for 2026
When you look at the cast of I Can Only Imagine 2, you see a mix of high-tier Hollywood talent and indie stalwarts. Getting Milo Ventimiglia is a huge "get." It signals that Lionsgate is treating this as a major theatrical event, not just a niche release for church groups.
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The chemistry between Finley and Ventimiglia will likely be the heart of the film. Their "unlikely friendship" is the catalyst for Bart facing his past. He has to fix his relationship with his son before the fame completely erodes what he’s built.
It’s also worth noting that the film has been moved up. Originally slated for March, it’s now hitting theaters in February 2026. That usually means the studio is confident in the "word of mouth" potential.
What to Watch Before the Release
If you want to be fully prepared for the sequel, there are a few things you should probably do.
First, obviously, re-watch the original 2018 film. It sets the foundation for Bart's trauma and his eventual redemption. Second, go listen to the song "Even If." Read the lyrics. It’ll give you a massive head start on the emotional weight this movie is carrying.
Lastly, keep an eye on the official trailers. The first glimpses show a much more mature aesthetic than the first movie. It looks less like a biopic and more like a heavy family drama.
Next Steps for Fans:
- Check Local Listings: As of now, the release is set for February 20, 2026.
- Follow the Band: Bart Millard often shares behind-the-scenes tidbits on his social media about the "true story" aspects of the script.
- Look for Early Screenings: Faith-based films often do "early access" screenings through platforms like Fandango or church networks about two weeks before the wide release.