I Can Only Imagine 2: Everything We Know About MercyMe's Bart Millard And The New Movie Sequel

The iconic Christian contemporary song, "I Can Only Imagine" by MercyMe, continues to resonate with millions worldwide, nearly 25 years after its initial release. As of December 2025, the song's powerful message of hope and the true story behind its creation are once again dominating headlines, not just for its enduring musical legacy, but for a major new development: the highly anticipated sequel to the 2018 blockbuster film, *I Can Only Imagine 2*, which is currently in production and slated for a 2026 release. This article dives into the song's history, the full biography of its writer, Bart Millard, and the fresh details surrounding the new inspirational film.

The song, released on the band's 2001 debut album *Almost There*, remains the best-selling Christian single of all time, a testament to its profound impact that transcended the Christian music genre and achieved significant cross-over success.

Bart Millard: The Voice and Story Behind the Anthem

The emotional core of "I Can Only Imagine" lies in the personal testimony of MercyMe’s lead singer and principal songwriter, Bart Millard. The song was written as a reflection on the death of his father, Arthur Millard, who had transformed from an abusive parent to a devout Christian before succumbing to cancer. Bart penned the lyrics, wondering what it would be like to finally stand before God in heaven, a concept that has connected deeply with listeners facing loss and grief worldwide.

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Bart Millard’s Biography and Profile

• Full Name: Bart Marshall Millard
• Born: December 1, 1972
• Birthplace: Greenville, Texas
• Occupation: Musician, Songwriter, Author, Lead Vocalist for MercyMe
• Band: MercyMe (Founded in Edmond, Oklahoma)
• Key Band Members: Nathan Cochran (Bass), Mike Scheuchzer (Guitar), Robby Shaffer (Percussion/Drums)
• Solo Work: Released two solo albums, including *Hymned, No. 1* (2005)
• Family: Married to Shannon Millard, with whom he has five children.

Millard’s candid portrayal of his tumultuous childhood and his father's ultimate redemption provided the narrative foundation for the 2018 film, which became a surprise box-office smash, grossing over $83 million globally.

The Enduring Legacy of "I Can Only Imagine"

Released on October 12, 2001, "I Can Only Imagine" quickly became a phenomenon that redefined the boundaries of Christian music. While it was initially featured on the 1999 independent album *The Worship Project*, it was the 2001 re-release on the album *Almost There* that launched it into the stratosphere.

Key Milestones and Cross-Over Success

The song's impact is quantifiable through its numerous accolades and impressive chart performance:

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• Best-Selling Christian Single: It holds the distinction of being the most-played and best-selling Christian single in the history of Christian radio.
• Mainstream Chart Performance: The track successfully crossed over to mainstream radio, peaking at No. 5 on the *Billboard* Adult Contemporary chart and reaching No. 71 on the *Billboard* Hot 100.
• Major Awards: In 2002, the song swept the GMA Dove Awards, winning both 'Song of the Year' and 'Pop/Contemporary Recorded Song of the Year.'
• RIAA Certification: It is one of the few Christian songs to achieve multi-platinum status, solidifying its place in music history.

The power of the song lies in its simple yet profound lyrics, which pose eternal questions about the afterlife, prompting listeners to contemplate their own faith and future. The chorus, in particular, has become a staple in worship services and memorial events:

"Surrounded by Your glory / What will my heart feel / Will I dance for You Jesus / Or in awe of You be still / Will I stand in Your presence / Or to my knees will I fall / Will I sing hallelujah / Will I be able to speak at all / I can only imagine..."

The Latest Chapter: *I Can Only Imagine 2* (2026)

The most current and exciting news for fans of MercyMe and inspirational cinema is the confirmation of a sequel film. The success of the original 2018 movie, which was recognized as 'Inspirational Film of the Year' at the 49th Annual GMA Dove Awards, paved the way for this new project.

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Production and Release Details

The sequel, *I Can Only Imagine 2*, is being produced by Kingdom Story Company and Lionsgate, the same team behind the first film. Production officially began in the spring of 2025, with a theatrical release date currently scheduled for February 20, 2026.

The new film is set to explore the next chapter of Bart Millard's life, moving beyond the initial story of his relationship with his father and the song's creation. While specific plot details are tightly guarded, the sequel is expected to delve deeper into the challenges and triumphs that followed the song's massive success and the band's journey through the early 2000s.

Confirmed Cast Members for the Sequel

A number of familiar faces, along with new additions, are confirmed to star in the sequel, ensuring continuity and high-profile appeal:

• John Michael Finley: He will reprise his critically acclaimed role as Bart Millard.
• Dennis Quaid: Expected to return, though his specific role in the sequel's timeline remains a point of curiosity for fans.
• Trace Adkins: The country music star, who played MercyMe’s manager, Brickell, in the first film, is also set to return.
• Milo Ventimiglia: The popular actor is a new addition to the cast, suggesting a significant new character will be introduced to Bart Millard's story.

The production of *I Can Only Imagine 2* in 2025 and its 2026 release date confirm that the story of Bart Millard and MercyMe is far from over. It highlights the lasting cultural and spiritual importance of a song that began as a simple reflection on a father’s life and became a global anthem of faith. The ongoing narrative, from the original track on the *Almost There* album to the upcoming cinematic sequel, ensures that the message of hope inherent in the lyrics of "I Can Only Imagine" will continue to inspire new generations.