Written, directed, and produced by Kevin D. Sepe, ELIJAH PEEL stars Robert Malcolm Cumming and introduces Evelyn Grace Kite, alongside Kevin Sorbo, April Billingsley, and Princess Elmore. The film is executive produced by Willie Robertson, Korie Robertson, and Terry Lee Harris.
Inspired by a true story, ELIJAH PEEL follows a stadium-filling rock star whose life of fame and addiction comes to a sudden halt after a heart attack nearly costs him everything. During his recovery, Elijah encounters a remarkable young girl whose unwavering faith, radiant spirit, and wisdom beyond her years begin to break through the walls he has built around his heart. Through their unexpected bond, her extraordinary hope inspires Elijah to begin a powerful journey toward healing, reconciliation, and faith.
“From the moment we saw ELIJAH PEEL, we knew it was something special,” said Michael Scott, co-founder of EKKL Entertainment. “It’s a deeply moving story about second chances, human connection, and the power of hope and is exactly the kind of emotionally resonant, crowd-pleasing film that reminds us why the theatrical experience matters, and we’re proud to bring it to audiences this summer.”
Executive Producers Willie and Korie Robertson shared, “This is a story about faith and connection that we immediately believed in. We’re proud to be part of bringing this film to audiences.”
“ELIJAH PEEL is a story about the unexpected connections that can change the course of a life,” said Kevin D. Sepe. “I wanted to explore how even the smallest, most profound encounters can force us to confront who we are and who we might become. I’m incredibly grateful to EKKL for recognizing the heart of this film and helping bring it to a wider audience.”
Robert Malcolm Cumming (Hell's Haven, Molar) anchors the film as Elijah Peel, carrying the character from the heights of rock stardom through the depths of addiction to the fragile first steps of redemption. It's a demanding lead — equal parts swagger and vulnerability — and Cumming gives Elijah the wounded charisma the story needs to earn its second chance.
The film marks the breakout performance of Evelyn Grace Kite, who recently made history as the youngest-ever recipient of the International Christian Film Festival’s Best Actress award. Her performance brings warmth, wit, immediacy, and emotional honesty to the story, giving the film much of its beating heart.
Kevin Sorbo portrays Elijah Peel’s talent manager, adding another compelling presence to a story centered on second chances, redemption, recovery, and the kind of hope that can transform a life.
Music also plays a central role in the film. The original soundtrack was produced by filmmaker Kevin D. Sepe and published by Harris Sepe Music, with standout tracks including “Life Too Short, Story Too Old,” “River Deep,” “Can You Feel It,” “The Wild Ones,” and “Not an Ordinary Love.” Blending rock, soul, and faith-driven themes, the music serves as a powerful extension of Elijah’s inner life.
ELIJAH PEEL was shot on location in and around Memphis, Tennessee.
Franklin, Tennessee Special Screening (Tuesday, August 4th)
Media, invited guests, and select members of the public are invited to a special advance screening of ELIJAH PEEL in Franklin, Tennessee.
WHAT:
ELIJAH PEEL Special Screening
WHEN:
Tuesday, August 4, 2026
6:00 PM — Red Carpet Arrivals
7:00 PM — Screening Begins
WHERE:
AMC Thoroughbred 20
Franklin, Tennessee
MEDIA:
To RSVP for the press line and/or request tickets, please contact:
Screener links are also available for feature consideration. To request a screener, please contact:
Press Interview Availability
ELIJAH PEEL Press Day (8/4-5)
Select Nashville In-Person & Virtual Broadcast, Print, Podcast, and Online Interviews
WHEN:
Tuesday, August 4th & Wednesday, August 5th (In Nashville, Tenn.)
WHO:
Filmmaker Kevin D. Sepe
Stars Robert Malcolm Cumming & Evelyn Grace Kite
In support of the theatrical release of ELIJAH PEEL, select virtual interview opportunities are also available on Thursday, August 13 and Friday, August 14, 2026.*
Available guests:
Willie Robertson* — Executive Producer; Duck Dynasty, The Blind
Kevin Sorbo — Actor, ELIJAH PEEL
*Please note: Willie Robertson is available Thursday, August 13 only.
Interview format:
Remote interviews available via Zoom, Microsoft Teams, or preferred video platform.
Suggested interview topics include the real-life themes behind ELIJAH PEEL, including addiction, recovery, second chances, faith, and spiritual renewal; why Willie and Korie Robertson were drawn to the story; Kevin Sorbo’s role in the film and his perspective on hope-driven storytelling; and why faith-based films continue to connect with audiences seeking meaningful, family-friendly theatrical experiences.
To request or confirm an interview, please contact:
Jeremy Westby, 2911 Media
+1-615-496-4954 (SMS/TEXT) or +1-833-537-2911 (VOICE)
Official Trailer:
About ELIJAH PEEL:
Inspired by a true story, ELIJAH PEEL follows a stadium-filling rock star whose life of fame and addiction comes to a sudden halt after a heart attack nearly costs him everything. During his recovery, Elijah encounters a remarkable young girl whose unwavering faith, radiant spirit, and wisdom beyond her years begin to break through the walls he has built around his heart. Through their unexpected bond, her extraordinary hope inspires Elijah to begin a powerful journey toward healing, reconciliation, and faith.
ELIJAH PEEL opens exclusively in theaters August 14, 2026.
About EKKL Entertainment:
EKKL Entertainment is a faith-and-family entertainment company dedicated to bringing audience-friendly, values-driven stories to as many people as possible. Founded by entertainment pioneer Michael Scott, co-founder and former CEO of Pure Flix, whose work in inspirational cinema has generated more than $200 million at the global box office, EKKL champions meaningful, inspiring, and emotionally resonant storytelling for audiences and families seeking films with purpose.
EKKL’s growing theatrical slate includes ELIJAH PEEL, opening exclusively in theaters August 14, 2026; DANIEL AND THE FIERY FURNACE, opening exclusively in theaters September 18, 2026; and SHE DANCES, a father-daughter drama starring Steve Zahn, Audrey Zahn, Ethan Hawke, Rosemarie DeWitt, Mackenzie Ziegler, and Sonequa Martin-Green.
For more information, please visit EKKL.com.
