why werent there big stars in the TV movie The Bible?

Most of the big screen stars are all gone now that played in biblical movies, It takes a certain actor to play the role of Christ. Charlton Heston was one of those actors and so was John Houston the young actors coming up simply don't have that charisma or a religious belief to play biblical roles in my opinion.

I've only caught the 1st episode where Pharaoh was chasing Moses to the Red Sea; the actors playing those parts were screaming their lines; I thought I was watching a 24 series episode with Jack Bauer(Kiefer Sutherland). Not impressed.

This series gave actors previously used as movie extras an opportunity to hold lead rolls. Keeps the Movie budget on the down low and we get to watch what they paid for!

Because big stars cost money. Besides, in a series like that, well known stars can be distracting. There was one biblical epic in the 60's where John Wayne appeared as a Roman centurion. All I can think of when I see it is "Hey! That Roman looks like the Duke!".

It's the history channel. They spent all of their budget on the costumes...and on hiring Gabriel Byrne to star in Vikings.

Because it's a TV series.

It's basic cable TV. Plus, liberal union actors don't get involved in Christianity unless it furthers their career.

To keep the cost down.

Why pay $20,000.000. for a big name when your budget can't afford it?

They got a lot of things wrong in that movie.

I presume a major consideration would be budget.

Because it's the kiss of death to plug nonsense fundie garbage nowadays. Look at how typecast that James Cavaziel was or whatever played Jeebus on that Mel Gibson torture porn flick.