Ann Nesby (center) appears as Sarah in Tyler Perry’s The Gospel of Christmas. Photo courtesy of Netflix.
From a press release:
Acclaimed singer and actress Ann Nesby, the six-time Grammy Award-nominated solo artist and legendary voice of Sounds of Blackness, returns to the screen as Sarah in Tyler Perry’s upcoming Netflix holiday film, The Gospel of Christmas, premiering November 11, 2026.
Nesby joins an extraordinary ensemble of celebrated gospel, R&B and inspirational artists in a holiday story centered on faith, family, perseverance, and the power of belief.
The Gospel of Christmas follows Isaac, a struggling pastor who travels with his wife, Rebecca, to New York City after being tasked with rebuilding a failing church.
As the couple confronts challenges to their faith, family, and future, the film explores the strength required to persevere through adversity and rediscover hope.
Nesby portrays Sarah, adding her distinctive presence to a cast that includes Fantasia Barrino, Durrell “Tank” Babbs, Chante Moore, Fred Hammond, Pastor Shirley Caesar, Yolanda Adams, The Clark Sisters, Smokie Norful, Jekalyn Carr and other celebrated artists and performers.
For Nesby, The Gospel of Christmas also represents a meaningful full-circle moment in a professional relationship with Tyler Perry that spans decades.
Long before Perry became one of the entertainment industry’s most prolific filmmakers and studio executives, Nesby appeared in his stage production, I Know I’ve Been Changed.
Her role as Sarah in The Gospel of Christmas reunites the acclaimed vocalist and actress with Perry for a new generation of audiences.
“Portraying Sarah in The Gospel of Christmas is meaningful to me because this story speaks to the power of faith and family and the strength we find when life challenges us,” says Nesby. “I’m grateful to be part of a film that reminds us that even in difficult moments, God can make a way. I pray audiences leave encouraged, uplifted, and reminded of the true meaning of Christmas.”
Written by : Bob Marovich
Bob Marovich is a gospel music historian, author, and radio host. Founder of Journal of Gospel Music blog (formally The Black Gospel Blog) and producer of the Gospel Memories Radio Show.
