Actor Chris Pratt has encountered significant criticism after posting on Instagram about the Hallow app, a Catholic prayer and meditation platform. The post, which invited followers to join him and others in a 40-day Lenten prayer challenge, sparked immediate reactions and controversy online.
The Hallow App’s Controversial Connections and Beliefs
Hallow, the app Pratt promoted, is supported by figures such as Vice President JD Vance and billionaire Peter Thiel, both known for conservative political views. The app is closely tied to Catholic teachings and reportedly opposes abortion, reinforcing its conservative religious orientation.
Similar Backlash Experienced by Other Celebrities Over Hallow
Prior to Pratt’s post, singer Gwen Stefani also faced criticism for endorsing Hallow. Pratt, who is public about his Christian faith, shared the invitation to join a Lenten challenge alongside Mark Wahlberg and others, encouraging focused prayer and fasting during the 40 days of Lent.
Chris Pratt’s Message About the Lenten Prayer Challenge
In his Instagram caption, Pratt emphasized the power of prayer, stating,
“Mark and I will be leading us through weekly fasting challenges to make sure that we make this Lent our best one yet.”
He further added,
“Forty days. Focused prayer. Intentional sacrifice. Loving even when it’s hard. I’d love for you to join me.”
Reactions to the Post: Immediate and Strong Criticism
The response from social media users was swift and often harsh. Comments included expressions of disappointment, such as one person simply stating, “How disappointing.” Another user wrote,
“I’ll be praying I never have to see your commercial again.”
Some users criticized the nature of the app’s business model, pointing out subscription fees. One commenter remarked,
“No thanks. When I saw the app follows Megyn Kelly … that’s all I needed to know about the so-called prayer app. Plus, you don’t need to pay to pray.”
Discussion on Reddit Highlights Disappointment in Pratt’s Post
On Reddit, many users expressed frustration over Pratt’s endorsement. Descriptions ranged from calling the post “shitty” to “embarrassing,” revealing a strong disapproval among fans and observers. One user lamented,
“Damn. I liked this guy too,”
while another reflected on his earlier appeal, saying,
“He seemed like such a cool guy when he was Andy on Parks and Recreation and was married to Anna.”
Another redditor commented on perceived lack of authenticity, stating,
“No one has an ounce of integrity.”
The Label of “Worst Chris” Reemerges in Criticism
Many critics referenced the ongoing comparison between Pratt and other actors named Chris, such as Chris Evans and Chris Hemsworth. Pratt has previously been dubbed the “worst Chris” due to past controversies, including a widely discussed hunting photo and his affiliation with the Hillsong Church, which has faced anti-LGBTQ criticism.
One viral comment encapsulated this sentiment:
“This is part of the reason he’s the worst Chris,”
followed by another saying,
“Worst Chris continues to be worst.”
Gender and Abortion Conversations Surface in Comments
The debate around the post also sparked comments addressing gender and bodily autonomy. One person remarked,
“I love how loser men tell women what to do with their bodies. If it were men who carry the biological function of pregnancy and childbirth, the world would be extinct by now.”
Notably, Chris Pratt himself has not publicly declared his position on abortion despite the controversy surrounding the app he promoted.
Chris Pratt’s Previous Statements About His Faith
Although Pratt has remained silent on the immediate backlash, he has previously defended his commitment to Christianity. In a 2023 interview with the Christian Post, he said,
“I care enough about Jesus to take a stand, even if it cost me. It could cost me everything, but I don’t care. It’s worth it to me because this is what I’m called to do, it’s where my heart is.”
Hallow CEO’s Affirmation of App’s Religious Stance
Alex Jones, CEO and cofounder of Hallow, has openly supported the company’s alignment with Catholic teachings, particularly its anti-abortion position. In 2023, he stated,
“I’d want to start by saying that Hallow stands proudly and unequivocally in support of all Catholic Church teaching, especially the pro-life stance of the Church and the USCCB’s affirmation of the end of abortion as the preeminent priority.”
Implications of the Backlash and Public Reaction
The criticism faced by Chris Pratt highlights the ongoing tensions when celebrities endorse religious or politically charged platforms, especially those linked to divisive social issues like abortion. The incident demonstrates how public figures’ posts can trigger intense debates, reflecting broader cultural conflicts. Moving forward, Pratt has yet to offer a direct response, leaving fans and critics alike awaiting his stance on the controversy.
