Dennis Quaid Shares How Faith Shaped Ronald Reagan

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 movie role, faith’s position in Reagan’s life, and what message he hopes the audience receives.

Dennis Quaid and Ronald Reagan’s Similar Stories 

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. Because of their shared background, Dennis was able to move from feeling unworthy to play the president in Reagan to committed to the role. 

And it wasn’t the cowboy hat or the public persona he wanted to dive into, but what was behind all that. Because, as Dennis put it, “that’s the thing that’s going to make it interesting and not just a documentary on his life.” 

How the Reagan Ranch Ties Into Reagan’s Character

Before accepting the role, Dennis visited the Reagan Ranch alone. “It gave me a feeling and a glimpse into who he was inside,” he said.

And from my experience, that’s true. You get a sense of who Reagan was when you walk through that house. It’s not a picture 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 and Presidency

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.