HCU Professor Lynn Cohick an Expert Voice in 'The First Christmas' Docudrama

Houston, Texas, Dec. 23, 2025 - Houston Christian University (HCU) professor Dr. Lynn Cohick is featured as an expert contributor in "Kevin Costner Presents: The First Christmas," a new docudrama that uses dramatic reenactments along with commentary from Christian scholars to present a culturally authentic retelling of the birth of Christ. Narrated by award-winning actor Kevin Costner, the project is executive produced by filmmaker David L. Cunningham and produced by Warm Springs Productions.

Dr. Cohick, a Distinguished Professor of New Testament and one of six experts featured in the series, was invited to participate after receiving an unexpected message from the production team. "I received an email out of the blue in late July from producer Jackie Greer, inviting me to participate as an 'expert voice' in a docudrama about the birth of Jesus and the challenges Mary and Joseph faced," shared the HCU professor, who also serves as Director of HCU's Houston Theological Seminary.

After reviewing the vision and message of the film, Dr. Cohick agreed to participate and traveled to Missoula, Montana, for filming in mid-August. She later reflected that the experience was both welcoming and professionally rewarding, noting that the film crew created a comfortable environment throughout the process. "And sadly, I did not meet Kevin Costner," she added with a smile.

Reflecting on the production as a whole, Dr. Cohick praised David Cunningham's leadership and the team's commitment to the accurate handling of scripture. She was impressed by Cunningham's passion for filmmaking and his deep interest in presenting a culturally and historically accurate reconstruction of the biblical story. "He wanted the story to be understandable to modern audiences, so its meaning resonates today. I am so impressed with how well they achieved all these goals."

Dr. Cohick contributed historical and theological insight that helped illuminate the world into which Jesus was born. Drawing on her extensive research, she addressed what daily life may have been like for Mary and the broader social and political realities of the time, while also explaining the theological significance of the Incarnation as central to God's redemptive story.

"I have done extensive research on women's lives at this time, and that proved helpful in describing what Mary might have experienced. I study the Roman imperial presence in Judea and Galilee, and could offer some historical notes about daily life," shared Dr. Cohick.

Dr. Philip Tallon, Dean of the School of Christian Thought at HCU, expressed appreciation for Dr. Cohick's participation and representation of the University in the docudrama. "Though I missed "The First Christmas" when it ran on ABC, I caught it on Disney+. I was pleased to see Dr. Cohick representing HCU so well," said Dr. Tallon.

Through her involvement in "The First Christmas," Dr. Cohick continues HCU's tradition of contributing scholarly excellence and faithful engagement to conversations at the intersection of Scripture, history and culture.

The docudrama aired originally on ABC and is available to view on Hulu and Disney+ streaming platforms.

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About Houston Christian University

For more than 60 years, Houston Christian University has equipped students to lead, collaborate and embody a deep sense of spiritual purpose. The University offers a wide range of majors, undergraduate, graduate and doctoral degree programs, as well as NCAA Division I athletics in the Southland Conference. Located in the heart of one of the nation's largest metropolitan centers, HCU's culture of excellence molds the next generation of educated disciples to be pillars in their communities, preparing them to think critically and biblically as they impact the world.