(Cover) - EN Showbiz - Jim Calviezel claims playing Jesus has ruined his career.

The Hollywood actor has revealed the catastrophic effect that the role of Jesus in the Mel Gibson film The Passion of Christ had on his career.

Calviezel, 42, a devout Catholic, insisted that he has been rejected in my own industry since playing the son of God in the 2004 box office hit.

During a 20-minute talk at a church in Orlando, USA to promote a new audio book of the Bible, the troubled star added that offers had dried up and he is shunned by many within the industry.

Calviezel admitted that he decided to go ahead with the controversial role despite warnings from the films director Mel Gibson. Gibson told him: "You'll never work in this town again." Calviezel then replied: We all have to embrace our crosses.

Prior to The Passion the actor was considered one of Hollywoods rising stars appearing in such films as The Count of Monte Cristo and Angel Eyes. But since, his career has taken a nosedive and the 42-year-old has made only a handful of movies.

Nevertheless, Calviezel doesnt believe Hollywood legend Mel Gibson has escaped the curse of The Passion either. He said of the star: Mel Gibson, he's a horrible sinner, isn't he?. Mel Gibson doesn't need your judgment, he needs your prayers. (C) Cover Media