The Role of Faith in Ronald Reagan’s Life (Dennis Quaid Interview)

In a sit down with Dennis Quaid at the Reagan Ranch—dubbed the “Western White House”—we discussed his role as the 40th president in the film Reagan. 

As we talked, surrounded by the artifacts of Reagan’s life—the books he loved, the saddle he used, the patio he built with his own hands—Dennis opened up about his unique journey to the role in Reagan, faith’s position in Ronald Reagan’s life, and what message he hopes the audience receives from the film.

Why Dennis Quaid Accepted the Role of Ronald Reagan

One of the first things Dennis told me was how much of Reagan’s story felt strangely familiar. Both had grown up with alcoholic fathers and godly mothers—women whose faith anchored their families. 

Dennis said their stories paralleled “up until the movies” and that connection gave him a unique entry point into playing Ronald Reagan.

“I was wondering why they were asking me to play Reagan. . . In a way, I felt unworthy. . . I was trying to see a way in.”

When he realized their similarities, Dennis was able to move from feeling unworthy to committed to the role. 

How the Reagan Ranch Helped Dennis Understand Reagan

But before accepting the role, Dennis visited the Reagan Ranch alone. “I came up here when I was deciding whether I was worthy to play Reagan or not. . . I felt like I could really feel him, and I realized that Reagan was a humble man.”

Dennis wanted to go beyond the cowboy hat or the public persona. Because, as Dennis put it, “that’s the thing that’s going to make it interesting and not just a documentary on his life.” 

And from my experience, it’s true that you get a sense of who Reagan was when you walk through that house. It’s not pictures of him with world leaders hanging on the walls, it’s horses and other western pieces, for example.

The Role Faith Played in Reagan’s Life

Many people forget that Ronald Reagan’s faith wasn’t a late-life development or a political pose. It began in childhood, where he memorized Scripture, taught Sunday school at twelve, and was shaped by his mother’s devotion.  

During our time at the ranch, we reflected on the Bible Reagan placed his hand on when he was sworn into office. He had it opened to 2 Chronicles 7:14, a verse his mother underlined and noted in the margin as “good for the healing of a nation.” 

His faith influenced everything that he did. “He wasn’t afraid of his faith, to show it. . . it definitely had a lot to do with the way he governed,” Dennis said.

Dennis Quaid’s Aspirations for ‘Reagan’ Film

Dennis believes Reagan’s life holds a message for our nation. Those who lived through his presidency will remember the strength and unity he inspired. Those born after will see what America could be again.  

It holds an important message for America and I think it’s a touching movie.

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Listen to my full interview with Dennis Quaid on The Greg Laurie Show.