Stephen Baldwin on Leaving Hollywood and a Prediction of His Christian Conversion

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American actor Stephen Baldwin has been known for his appearances in movies such as "The Usual Suspects," "8 Seconds," "Born on the Fourth of July," "Bio-Dome" and "The Flintstones in Viva Rock Vegas." In recent news, however, his Christian conversion has left fans and audiences equally confused and stunned.

At 60 years old, the popular and comedic performer has chosen to take a step back from Hollywood in order to focus on and prioritize faith-based projects. Despite his talent, Baldwin told USA Today that he didn’t want to become the next Tom Cruise: “I didn't want to be Tom Cruise, and have to make $100 million at the box office. I'd rather be a schmuck from Massapequa," he added, making a reference to an area in Long Island, New York City, where the Baldwins are from. "I'm good at that!"

The year was 2001 when Baldwin first encountered a moment of faith. Kennya, his wife, had hired a Brazilian woman to do some work for them, and the woman shared a prediction that would forever change the course of his life.

"One day, Kennya and Augusta were talking, and she said, 'I think it's funny you believe I'm here to clean your house,'" Baldwin said, going on to mention that the woman had a "prophetic vision" after learning Baldwin and his wife were looking for help. "My wife tells me, 'I just spoke to Augusta, and she said the real reason she's here is because God spoke to her, and she said in the future you and I will become born-again Christians and have our own ministry.'"

However, Baldwin was, at first, a bit skeptical of the woman’s vision, but within six months, 10,000 copies of his first Christian skateboarding video, “Livin' It,” had been distributed, and Baldwin officially left Hollywood for church-related events and productions and to start his own ministry.

Today, the former Hollywood star has two children and still remains in contact with skating ministries and also has a desire to produce even more Christian films. His outspoken faith and commitment to exclusively “Christian” projects have made others believe he acts “a little too weird,” but Baldwin doesn’t mind.

"I've done 100 movies, I've made more money that I could have wildly imagined, and I'm married to the hottest chick I've ever seen in my life," he said. "Jesus is my rock. My wife is my anchor. I've had the most amazing life, and I'm only 60. I'm just waiting for more doors open that I'm supposed to walk through."

Photo Credit: ©Andrew Toth/Getty Images

Amber Ginter is a teacher-turned-author who loves Jesus, her husband Ben, and granola. Growing up Amber looked for faith and mental health resources and found none. Today, she offers hope for young Christians struggling with mental illness that goes beyond simply reading your Bible and praying more. Because you can love Jesus and still suffer from anxiety. You can download her top faith and mental health resources for free to help navigate books, podcasts, videos, and influencers from a faith lens perspective. Visit her website at amberginter.com.