Singer/songwriter Jencarlos Canela cast as Jesus Christ, multiplatinum recording artist Chris Daughtry to play Judas in 'The Passion'

Inspirational live television event airs Palm Sunday, March 20, on FOX

Singer/songwriter and actor Jencarlos Canela has been cast in the role of Jesus Christ in "The Passion," a two-hour epic musical event airing live from New Orleans on Palm Sunday, March 20 (8-10 p.m. ET live/PT tape-delayed), on FOX.

Also, singer and actor Chris Daughtry has been tapped to play the disciple Judas.

Canela and Daughtry join previously announced host and narrator Tyler Perry and cast members Prince Royce (the disciple Peter) and Trisha Yearwood (Mary, the mother of Jesus).

"The Passion," written by Peter Barsocchini ("High School Musical"), tells the 2,000-year-old story of the last hours of Jesus' life on earth through passages from the Bible and a variety of popular music, sung by the cast, and arranged specifically for this event by executive producer and hit music producer Adam Anders ("Glee," "Rock of Ages"). Set in modern day, the event will follow the dramatic and inspirational story of Jesus of Nazareth, as he presides over the Last Supper, and then is betrayed by Judas, put on trial by Pontius Pilate, convicted, crucified and resurrected.

The event will unfold live at some of New Orleans' most iconic locations, while featuring a procession of hundreds of people carrying a 20-foot, illuminated cross from outside the Superdome to the live stage at Woldenberg Park on the banks of the Mississippi River.

Born and raised in Miami, Canela has starred in multiple TV productions, collaborated with some of the most prestigious musical talents of his time, and performed more than 200 concerts worldwide.