I Can Only Imagine 2
26 Feb 2026 
Russ Matthews I Can Only Imagine hit the airwaves of the world over two decades ago, and the box office hit film followed in 2018. A tale that seemed to say all that could be said about the international sensation meant the likelihood of a sequel may not have crossed even the most devoted fans’ minds. Yet, here we are with I Can Only Imagine 2 arriving in cinemas to tell the next chapter of Bart Millard (John Michael Finley) and MercyMe’s story.
Set ten years after the original film, quite a bit has happened in the life of MercyMe’s lead singer, Bart Millard. He married Shannon (Sophie Skelton), they had numerous children, the band toured across the world, and Arthur Millard (Dennis Quaid) has passed away. Despite the unprecedented success of the song and the enviable lifestyle of the Millards, the pressures of success — along with the health struggles of their son, Sam (Sammy Dell) — have led to a dark cloud taking residence over their lives. The latest tour, which includes Tim Timmons (Milo Ventimiglia) as the opening act, sets off a series of events that force the band and its lead singer to find a new path for life.
Initially, the response to a sequel to the first chapter of this iconic song felt like an unnecessary indulgence. Still, with Andy Erwin (American Underdog) and Brent McCorkle (Jesus Revolution) directing and writing this project, there was hope for something special for audiences. What was delivered is an unexpected chapter of this story that exposes the trials that follow extraordinary success, including the human side of those who live public lives, shown through the struggles of the Millard family.
Yet, the heart of this story occurs beyond the world of the Millards and MercyMe. As Tim Timmons’ harrowing journey to the stage and songwriting is unpacked in the background, this film moves from a human-interest story into a beautiful expression of gratitude and perseverance. By crossing over with the Horatio Spafford story behind It Is Well with My Soul, McCorkle and Erwin deliver a story worth seeing and sharing with others, proving that sequels can be justified if they have something meaningful to say.
I Can Only Imagine 2 is a pleasant and heartwarming surprise that deserves viewing by fans and by all those looking for a tale of family, faith, hope, and gratitude.
REEL DIALOGUE: What does it mean to be a father to your children?
I Can Only Imagine 2 provides multiple opportunities to discuss the value of fathers. Even though Bart and Sam’s story is at the forefront of this discussion, Bart’s past with his own father also weighs heavily on the topic.
One aspect of fatherhood that tends to get overlooked is that it is not only a responsibility but also a privilege. Children are indeed a blessing. It can be hard to remember this during the early morning feedings or after the latest car accident. Still, these unexpected challenges should not diminish the gift they are in our lives.
Fathers need to view this opportunity as an honour and do all they can to be the men their children need them to be. Some days are more complicated than others, but thankfully, the Bible gives us instruction to help mould our children. Prayer provides comfort as we watch over them in all situations.
Bible References
Psalm 127:3–5 “Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth. Blessed is the man who fills his quiver with them! He shall not be put to shame when he speaks with his enemies in the gate.”
Joshua 24:15 “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
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