Beyond the Breakout Hit: 4 Surprising Truths About the ‘I Can Only Imagine’ Sequel
For fans of the original, it’s reassuring to know that I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2 is truly the “inspiring next chapter,” with the core cast returning to explore these deeper themes.
RMN Stars Movies Desk
New Delhi | January 28, 2026
The song “I Can Only Imagine” became a global phenomenon, and the film that followed shared its powerful story of redemption with millions. It was a story about finding healing and a dream realized against all odds. But what happens after the breakout hit, after the dream comes true? The upcoming sequel, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2, delves into that very question, and what it reveals is more complex and compelling than you might expect.
Here are four of the most surprising truths about this inspiring next chapter.
It’s Based on the Story Behind Another Hit Song
While the first film was built around the creation of its iconic title track, this sequel isn’t just a continuation of that narrative. Instead, it’s based on the heartfelt true story behind another one of MercyMe’s hit singles: “Even If.” This is a significant shift, grounding the new film in a completely different, yet equally authentic, story of struggle and faith. It promises a new, emotionally resonant chapter that stands on its own, exploring a different facet of Bart Millard’s journey.
Success Isn’t the End of the Story—It’s the Start of a New Struggle
The sequel finds Bart Millard living the life he always dreamed of, with sold-out arenas and a devoted fan base. But the central conflict of the film isn’t about achieving success; it’s about the cost of it. The synopsis reveals that behind the spotlight, Bart’s past threatens the family he’s built, forcing him to repair not only the fragile bond with his son, Sam, but also his relationship with his wife, Shannon. The film powerfully explores the counter-intuitive idea that fame can endanger what matters most, shifting the story from the pursuit of a dream to the challenge of preserving a family.
A Beloved TV Star Joins the Tour and Changes Everything
Joining the cast for this new chapter is Milo Ventimiglia, beloved for his role in “This Is Us.” He plays Tim Timmons, a hopeful newcomer who joins them on their biggest tour yet. His character appears to be a crucial catalyst in the story. While his friendship brings a “renewed gratitude” to Bart’s life, Tim also carries his own “hardships—and secrets.” This adds a compelling layer of intrigue, suggesting that it’s through understanding Timmons’ hidden struggles that Bart will be forced to finally face his own past and begin repairing the damage done to his own family.
The Core Cast Returns to Face the Fire
For fans of the original, it’s reassuring to know that I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2 is truly the “inspiring next chapter,” with the core cast returning to explore these deeper themes. The film stars John Michael Finley, Milo Ventimiglia, Sophie Skelton, Arielle Kebbel, and Sammy Dell, with Trace Adkins and Dennis Quaid. This continuity provides a solid foundation, allowing the film to dive straight into its new exploration of faith, family, and the profound challenge of “finding God in the fire.”
A New Chapter of Faith and Family
I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2 promises to be much more than a simple victory lap. It’s shaping up to be a deeper look into the difficult but essential work of healing the past and protecting family bonds, even in the midst of incredible success. It poses a question that resonates far beyond the stage: What does it truly mean to find your faith not in the miracle, but in the fire that follows?
The movie I Can Only Imagine 2 is scheduled to be released only in theaters on February 20.
