Stephen Baldwin Reflects on Faith Over Fame

Stephen Baldwin, 60, believes he might have become a major Hollywood star, but he chose to focus on his faith instead. In a recent interview, Baldwin discussed the impact of his role in the acclaimed 1995 film, “The Usual Suspects,” and explained why he never pursued stardom aggressively.

“I probably could have become a big star,” Baldwin stated to People, “But that wasn’t me. I didn’t want to be Tom Cruise, making $100 million at the box office. Instead, I preferred being who I am.”

His departure from Hollywood coincided with a significant shift in his priorities after embracing born-again Christianity in 2001. Baldwin recounted how his spiritual journey started when he and his wife, Kennya, hired a Brazilian housekeeper. She claimed she was sent by God, predicting the couple would become born-again Christians and begin a ministry.

Baldwin shared, “My wife tells me, ‘I just spoke to Augusta, and she said the real reason she’s here is because God spoke to her. She said someday you and I will become born-again Christians and have our own ministry.’”

Initially skeptical, Baldwin’s views changed after attending several evangelical events with his sister, a born-again Christian. Witnessing a Christian skateboarding ministry that mixed extreme sports with worship influenced him deeply. “They had built a skate park on the beach. These skateboarders combined skating with preaching to kids who gathered to watch. I felt a calling,” Baldwin remembered.

He eventually created a skate video with a Christian message titled “Livin’ It.” Within six months, 10,000 copies circulated. A large church inquired about bringing the skaters for a live event, prompting Baldwin to leave Hollywood and visit 125 churches over four years, driven by his fascination with Jesus.

Baldwin acknowledged that Hollywood found his views and political stance, including support for Donald Trump, unusual. “I think they thought I act a little too weird,” he said. Despite that, Baldwin highlighted the positive feedback he receives. “Many people tell me how my work has touched them, and that’s what matters. At 60, I’m happy and blessed. I truly believe the best is yet to come.”

Currently, Baldwin enjoys being a grandfather and is working on faith-based films for younger audiences. He also hosts a podcast, “One Bad Movie,” where actors discuss their worst film experiences. Baldwin expressed his strengthened perspective on life through his roles as a grandfather and a husband. “I’ve done 100 movies and made more money than I ever imagined. Jesus is my rock. My wife is my anchor.”

Christina Dugan Ramirez, an entertainment journalist, has over 15 years of experience, including a decade at PEOPLE, and recently joined Fox News Digital.