Lionsgate and Kingdom Story Company Debut Trailer for 'I Can Only Imagine 2,' Releasing Feb 20, 2026

Lionsgate and Kingdom Story Company have released the official trailer for I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the record-breaking 2018 hit that inspired millions worldwide. The new film reunites audiences with MercyMe frontman Bart Millard in a powerful story about faith, fatherhood, and finding grace in the hardest seasons of life.

Starring John Michael Finley, Milo Ventimiglia, Sophie Skelton, Arielle Kebbel, Sammy Dell, with Trace Adkins and Dennis Quaid, I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2 continues the true-life story that moved a generation. Directed by Andrew Erwin (American Underdog) and Brent McCorkle (Jesus Revolution), and written by McCorkle, the film is produced by Kevin Downes, Andrew Erwin, Cindy Bond, Bart Millard, Daryl Lefever, and Joshua Walsh.

After the breakout success of the song “I Can Only Imagine,” MercyMe’s Bart Millard (John Michael Finley) is living the dream—sold-out arenas, a devoted fan base, and a thriving career. But behind the spotlight, Bart’s past threatens the family he’s built, especially his fragile bond with his son, Sam (Sammy Dell). When hopeful newcomer Tim Timmons (Milo Ventimiglia, This Is Us) joins the band for their biggest tour yet, he unknowingly brings a renewed gratitude to Bart’s life through their unlikely friendship. Bart soon discovers that Tim carries hardships—and secrets—of his own, forcing him to face his past and repair his relationships with Sam and his wife, Shannon (Sophie Skelton), before fame costs him what matters most. Based on the heartfelt true story behind MercyMe’s hit single “Even If,” I CAN ONLY IMAGINE 2 is the inspiring next chapter of faith, family, and finding God in the fire.

We talked with Andy Erwin and Bart Millard about the new film at the 2025 GMA Dove Awards:

“I Can Only Imagine was such a defining moment seven years ago. I never dreamed there was more story to tell—until we heard the story behind MercyMe’s hit ‘Even If.’ Learning how Tim Timmons and Bart Millard co-wrote that song out of deep lived faith moved us to tears; the honesty and hope woven through each of their journeys is undeniable. Brent and I knew immediately that I Can Only Imagine truly deserved a sequel.” — Andrew Erwin, Director

“Returning to the world of Imagine has been a deeply personal and profoundly moving journey—for me and for so many who helped bring this uplifting story to life. Its themes of finding gratitude in our grief and discovering beauty that rises from ashes feel more relevant now than ever. Watching this chapter of Bart and Tim’s story unfold for the big screen has been an honor. I can’t wait for audiences everywhere to experience it this February.” — Brent McCorkle, Director/Writer