Morgan Freeman’s spiritual beliefs have intrigued the public for years, largely due to his portrayal of God in Bruce Almighty and his exploration of faith in the National Geographic series The Story of God. Yet, many may wonder: Is Freeman a Christian or a Muslim? The answer is neither.

Despite his extensive exploration of various religions, Freeman does not classify himself under these faiths. His beliefs are a distinctive mix of lifelong curiosity, respect for all religious traditions, and a newfound connection with one of the world’s most ancient religions.

The Zoroastrian Connection

While filming The Story of God, Freeman found a personal connection with Zoroastrianism, an ancient religion predating Islam in Iran. He was especially drawn to its fundamental principles, which align closely with his own life philosophy. “It is a belief system that is intrinsically me: ‘Good thoughts, good words, good deeds’ pretty much sums it up,” he shared with The Hollywood Reporter.

Freeman has even suggested that the foundational principles of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam have roots in this ancient faith. This connection offers the clearest insight into his personal religious perspective.

A Lifelong Spiritual Seeker

Freeman’s spiritual journey is characterized by ongoing inquiry rather than adherence to a fixed doctrine. Raised in a Christian household by his grandmother and mother, he was introduced to church life at a young age.

However, by the age of 13, he began questioning the concept of God and has since identified as agnostic and not religiously inclined. His interest lies not in religious doctrines but in the universal human experience of wonder in the face of the unknown, which, he believes, is where religious sentiment truly originates.

The “Story of God” Mission

His National Geographic series, The Story of God, became a global mission to understand faith from every angle. Freeman, who is also an executive producer on the show, traveled the world to interview religious leaders, scientists, and historians.

The show’s goal was not to convert viewers but to highlight the commonalities that unite the world’s religions and to foster mutual understanding. Through this process, he has come to view religion as a societal glue, a system that helps humans cope with existential fears and the concept of death.

Science and the Nature of Belief

Freeman’s quest is deeply intertwined with science. Before The Story of God, he hosted Through the Wormhole, which explored questions of theoretical physics and neuroscience, often touching on religious themes.

His underlying worldview often leans toward philosophical naturalism, framing religious belief as a “hard-wired” human instinct or a psychological coping mechanism that evolved to help our species survive. He sees science and faith not as irreconcilable enemies, but as different tools for understanding the world.

Debunking a Viral Rumor

A viral claim that Morgan Freeman converted to Islam during the 2022 FIFA World Cup opening ceremony is completely false. While he did participate in the ceremony and recited a verse from the Quran in a segment about unity, he did not accept the religion.

This incident is a common example of fake news that circulates about celebrities and their religious beliefs. Fact-checking organizations have thoroughly debunked this specific rumor, confirming he has not converted to Islam.