By Paul Salfen, Christine Thompson for AMFM Magazine
In a heartfelt conversation with AMFM Magazine’s Paul Salfen, MercyMe frontman Bart Millard reflects on the overwhelming response to I Can Only Imagine 2, the sequel to the 2018 hit film inspired by his life and the mega-hit song that changed everything. Released in theaters on February 20, 2026, by Lionsgate, the film dives deeper into Bart’s journey, exploring personal crises, family struggles, and renewed hope amid success—drawing from real-life challenges like his son’s diabetes diagnosis and friendships that brought perspective during tough times.
Just days after the movie hit screens, Bart shared his thoughts on the post-release “Christmas morning” letdown, the surreal experience of seeing his life portrayed on the big screen, and why vulnerability remains at the core of his story.
“It’s overwhelming,” Bart told Paul. “The second the movie releases—like an album—it’s this weird kind of depression. It’s like the day after Christmas. You’ve worked on this thing for years, and now you just sit and wait.”
Bart described sneaking into screenings to gauge audience reactions: “There’s something about seeing it with an audience that’s paying for the ticket… hoping and praying they laugh and respond the right way. I’ve been able to sneak in a couple times, and it’s pretty cool.”
The film, starring John Michael Finley as Bart, Milo Ventimiglia as singer-songwriter Tim Timmons, and others including Trace Adkins and Dennis Quaid, picks up after the success of “I Can Only Imagine.” It portrays Bart navigating fame’s highs alongside personal lows—fatherhood challenges, health battles in his family, and the ongoing work of healing from his past.
Bart admitted the vulnerability required is intense but familiar. “I’ve been immersed since ’94… my therapy has been writing songs and sharing intimate moments on stage,” he said. “People think you’re brave, but actually, it’s probably the safest place to be because no one can talk back when you’re on stage.”
Seeing actors portray him and his wife was “surreal” and therapeutic. “Nobody can prepare you for this… It’s bittersweet. My life is pretty boring compared to what the movie makes it out to be,” he laughed. The biggest joy? Watching it with his family, now in a healthy place. “With my son, we are in such an amazing place now. If we weren’t, the movie would never be made.”
He shared a light moment about Trace Adkins (who plays band manager Scott Brickell in the film): “He has to drive by my house… He honks every time like he’s a grandparent. I’ll get a call: ‘You hear me honk?’ I’m like, ‘Dude, I’m not standing outside!'”
Bart also offered advice to aspiring musicians: Treat every opportunity—whether 10 people or 10,000—as where God has you right now. “Don’t treat these moments like stepping stones… Take advantage of it, and you’ll be surprised at the more opportunities that come.”
Reflecting on his “Hail Mary” moment, Bart recounted almost leaving “I Can Only Imagine” off their independent album because it didn’t fit their “corny” church camp style. “We were so close to not ever putting it on an album… It changed my life forever.”
On staying motivated after decades in music: “We get tired of singing ‘Imagine’ night after night sometimes, but we never get tired of the response… Seeing people connect, especially first-timers—it’s intoxicating. We get to do what a lot of people dream of and never take it for granted.”
The band, still best friends after 32 years, heads back on tour starting March 12. Bart hopes the film reminds viewers: “We’re all in this together… Life is messy. No matter your status, we have hurt and pain in common. The enemy wants to isolate us… If people walk away feeling seen or heard, I’ll make a thousand movies.”
As the world grapples with its own challenges, I Can Only Imagine 2 arrives as a timely reminder of grace, redemption, and community. Catch it in theaters now, and keep an eye out for MercyMe on the road—where Bart says he feels most at home, sharing his heart through song.
Interview conducted by Paul Salfen for AMFM Magazine.
