Chris Pratt Clarifies Views: “I’m Not a Religious Person”

Chris Pratt is seeking to change some widespread perceptions about his religious views.

The Jurassic World trilogy star told Men’s Health in a new cover story that he’s not nearly as religious as people think (“spiritual” might be a more accurate word based on his description, though he doesn’t use it). Pratt also strongly criticized organized religion for its history of well-documented sins.

“Religion has been oppressive as fuck for a long time,” he said. “I didn’t know that I would kind of become the face of religion when really I’m not a religious person. I think there’s a distinction between being religious — adhering to the customs created by man, oftentimes appropriating the awe reserved for who I believe is a very real God — and using it to control people, to take money from people, to abuse children, to steal land, to justify hatred. Whatever it is. The evil that’s in the heart of every single man has glommed onto the back of religion and come along for the ride.”

Pratt was also asked about reports that he attended Hillsong Church, which has its own long line of controversies.

“I never went to Hillsong,” he said. “I’ve never actually been to Hillsong. I don’t know anyone from that church.”

The 43-year-old actor’s public association with religion seemed to stem from one of his “nine rules” that he cited when accepting an award in 2018 at the MTV Movie & TV Awards. “God is real,” he said. “God loves you, God wants the best for you. Believe that; I do.”

Pratt told Men’s Health: “Maybe it was hubris for me to stand up on the stage and say the things that I said. I’m not sure I touched anybody.”... (Read more)

Latest News