Alexa and Carlos PenaVega Feel Power of God Amid Pain, Loss of Daughter

Actors Carlos and Alexa PenaVega have long been Hollywood staples, with the couple appearing in movies, TV shows, and other entertainment endeavors. But in addition to entertaining the masses, the married couple routinely shares their Christian faith. In the process, their story has inspired millions of people to connect more deeply with God. The two co-star in the new Great American Pure Flix film "Mr. Manhattan," which starts streaming May 23. The movie offers a "heartwarming story about what it means to find joy after grief and give God control over every aspect of our lives."
The couple recently talked about the themes in "Mr. Manhattan" and the very real-life issues they've been contending with after the loss of their fourth child, Indy, who was stillborn. The PenaVegas revealed the heartbreaking news last month, expressing a deep reliance upon God amid such a tragic circumstance. Carlos and Alexa already have three children - Ocean, 7, Kingston, 4, and Rio, 2. In reflecting on "Mr. Manhattan, Alexa said "the Christian walk isn't pretty" and that some people sell a false premise that believers will have it easy when they accept Jesus. The reality, she said, is quite different.
"It's really ... hard, and you are going to be wrestling with God a lot throughout your journey," she said. "It is the most fulfilling walk you'll ever take, and it's also the most peaceful walk that you'll ever take." Alexa then reflected on her own experience with Indy to share how the family has been tested in this way. "We're walking through grief right now after losing our daughter," she said. "And that was the hardest thing we have ever had to experience - ever. But, what's awesome about our God is He [has] truly met us between this place of pain and peace, and He really spoke to us."
Alexa continued, "We've been saying ... the slogan for this season really feels like 'pain with purpose,' and it's interesting how God will make any painful experience that you have gone through ... He brings purpose to all the painful things in your life and He turns them into testimonies." Despite facing such a horrific situation with the loss of Indy, Alexa said she believes she and Carlos have been able to get to "know God on a level that we didn't even know we were capable of." Despite the pain, she said the season has been "very fruitful," spiritually speaking.
In addition to sharing these themes more generally, the couple also discussed the spiritual perspectives they believe audiences will take away from "Mr. Manhattan." Carlos said he believes too many people see God as "transactional instead of relational." "I think that's the biggest takeaway for sure," he said. "I feel like everybody deals with that in life. It's like, 'Well, God, I did this. Why did you do this to me?' [or] 'I did this, you know, but why this?' And that's not how God works." Watch him explain.

[@YLopez-xg3dq]

She’s the work wife and the wife wife 😂❤ this couple is serious goals. Amazing human beings

[@julievanderleest]

This is the couple who are true role models for a broken world.

[@karaleblanc7880]

Aw, I didn't know they loss their baby. Praying for them. It was through the loss of my first baby that the Lord revealed himself to me. I pray the Lord continues to comfort them and give them peace with their loss.

[@TheSkandyCandy]

I'm so happy to hear someone call out the fact that christians try to act like nothing bad will ever happen to you if you're saved. It's not true. Job is a testament to that. It is such a harmful idealogy and makes christians who are going through hard times feel like they don't have enough faith.

[@pattymonteforte6361]

Love this couple and how God has strengthened their faith through a great loss.

[@c_jo_men]

Love the PenaVegas😊 they deserve way more kudos than they get! Sending lots of prayers and encouragement their way. Blessings and thank you!

[@suzannelaloo17]

❤

[@tiadavenport5465]

I'm so sorry to hear about your loss. We lost twins 22 years ago. Hugs and prayers to your family. Your hearts are forever changed.

[@emerald9775]

Love this couple and love their movies too. ❤

[@normasmither202]

I am so sorry to hear about your loss. What a testimony! God bless and comfort you both in a special way. ❤️🙏

[@pinkie724]

What a great couple. We have no faith based films made in the UK. I love watching the US ones but it costs a lot to buy them. Keep on making these great films. 😊

[@johngreene9824]

I wasnt positive.....but i always thought Carlos was a christan man...im so joyfilled to find Carlos and his wife r....bless u both

[@irisbyrnes4442]

Life is hard and I am so sorry. Jesus keep them in your peace and love. Thank You for Your faithfulness.

[@rubyserenity90]

Such a beautiful interview! I could listen to her talk all day! May the Lord continue to bless them.

[@rmrita55]

Prayers for them at comfort

[@cuppajoylady]

I'm so incredibly sorry for the loss of your daughter. Heaven's gain! My Jesus- following dad just passed away, too. It's so hard. I'm struggling to connect with God through this time.

[@megamamab333]

🙏🙏🙏

[@clairesnelson9961]

I'm truly inspired by these two. They are strong examples of faith through trials. I look up to this couple immensely and pray that one day I can be such a christ centered person as they are. They are devoted Christians, spouses and parents which is so rare in the "hollywood" world. They are a breath of fresh air

[@kimweaver8464]

I have been praying for them and i am still praying and keep seeking God all the time and stay strong with him and God bless you guys ❤❤❤❤❤

[@laurabennet7693]

I love this couple! Praying for their family in their grief. 🙏❤️

[@janetnelson6576]

Great interview!!! LOVE the Penavegas!!! They “get it”!! Continue the good work and God bless you.

[@tabithanathania6746]

God Bless You, Carlos and Alexa 🙏🙏🙏 ❤️ from a Rusher (Big Time Rush fandom)

[@anniefenter8697]

They are amazing and we are praying for them❤

[@Lela_Emily]

The sweetest couple I love them 🥰

[@Debora.14]

I'm very sorry for your loss! May the Lord grant you both comfort.

[@jeannethomas9591]

I am so sorry for your loss. May God continue to wrap His loving arms around you and give you comfort. I love both of you and your faithfulness to God, your God given talent you share with us. Thank you for being vessel for the Lord. Spot on its a relationship with God.

[@CBNnewsonline]

Thank you for expressing your heartfelt sympathy, @jeannethomas9591. May you remember to include them in your prayers. God bless you!

[@St3p_h]

They make the best perfect couple for young kids to look up to. Amazing God has bring them together.

[@FelishaPenn]

So glad they are saved and serving God and sorry for your loss

[@LivelaughLovepray-rv1wb]

I love this couple they are open about there faith family God and they remain humble.❤❤

[@GabrielaCoutinho12]

Love the penavega family ❤

[@user-mv2tg8hc8c]

Jesus said, “If you want to a follower of mine, pick up your cross and follow me”. This is not our permanent home. If we suffer with God it’s completely different (way better) than suffering without him.

[@shanekawallace-graham2190]

Sending love to the Penavega Family. I admire your faith and your testimonies, and hope for all of God's richest blessings for you all as you live and walk the Christian journey in the limelight (see what I did there, if you see this Lex or Los, I hope it makes you smile). Update: I agree completely with your views on most Christian movies with that lens of everything is perfect. I hope to watch this production and share it with others. Update 2: Alexa and Carlos, my face always hurts from smiling so long after watching/listening anything you do together. May your home always have peace, joy, laughter, happiness, love and all good things.

[@tammytownsend5957]

Praise God for people like you. Alexia and Alex May God Bless You. I wish you the best and thank you For sharing Pain with purpose. All is well.

[@lisazappala4381]

So sorry for their precious loss. May God turn this loss into something positive also comfort their hurting hearts

[@monasagadaven9989]

Beautiful couple and so good to know they believe in Jesus. God bless and use them greatly. My condolences on your loss. May God be yol's comfort n strength.❤

[@tj4787]

Love them so sorry for their loss 🙏🏾♥️

[@Nursfaith]

Bless you both. I’m so sorry for your loss. My grandson died 9 years ago while waiting for a heart transplant so I know it’s difficult. Prayers for you both and your sweet family.❤️❤️🙏🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@bronzemuseum504]

God bless this wonderful godly couple. Cant imagine how hard losing a child is

[@marianmears8026]

They are so precious 💕

[@debra5079]

Im so sorry to hear of their loss. I loved this movie and all of the cast. Blessings,🧡

[@thinkforyourselfjohn3167]

I am so sorry for your loss I had no idea. 🙏💕 I love what Alexa said make me teachable and He will.

[@13Lenie]

Thanks for such a beautiful testimony. I hope to meet you both in person one day. I have so enjoyed all the movies you have acted in, so enjoyed them. The one that comes to mind is when you were acting on a ship or cruise line. Can’t remember the name but it was a hallmark movie ❤. So sorry for your loss.😢… I have been so blessed with your testimony of you both endured it. God continue to bless you both and family as you continue to witness for Him in such an honest and amazing way, and I am looking forward to see “ Mr Manhattan. Thank you so very much! You made my day!

[@BriarRoseA]

Funny to find this this morning. I just saw Alexa in Twister last night. So cute as a little girl! 🥰

[@NancySlider]

Good message & reminder that a relationship with God is not transactional!! Was just talking with a friend who’s going through a big challenge. Her faith is huge but as humans it’s easy to stumble, thinking God is punishing us for our previous sins & bad choices. When brought to our knees- esp. by a loss- ask ‘why God’ ‘ why me’ ‘why him not me’. Very sorry to hear of the loss of your baby, Carlos & Alexa- prayers for your family for healing. Very inspired by your strong character Because of your faith! Your career path gives me hope, there are folks that are seeking something different & more meaningful than what Hollywood normally generates. 👏🙏

[@carolsaner129]

So very sorry for your loss. Praise God you have been blessed with faith so strong to get you through something like that. May God continue to watch over you both and your family and keep up the inspirational work. Watching your movie now.

[@vanessascanlan940]

Beautiful interview 👌 👏

[@frances840]

I am so sorry for your loss. Sending prayers and light your way 🙏 ❤

[@tracyrodgers6622]

I love their their TV shows that they play in together. So sorry for their loss.

[@cherylbarrett695]

Love them!! God bless them and their family!

[@rmrita55]

Awesome word

[@ashleyglover8219]

BEAUTIFUL POWER COUPLE!!!! HUGE FAN OF THEM BOTH!

[@FollowerofChrist2002]

How devastating of a loss, I’m so sorry for you guys. May God bless y’all, especially those who grieve. May the child be at peace in Heaven with our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Prayers out for everyone. We humbly pray and wish all of this in Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior’s Holy Name, Amen.

[@MujeresConquistadoras]

so inspiring to hear from both of you. Entiendo su dolor! Blessings

[@ajb.822]

Wow. You guys, I'm so sorry for your "loss" ( we know she's not at all lost to you, if you be in Christ you'll be with her, with Jesus, for all eternity !).. ! I can't imagine/can only imagine the pain & sorrow and am so very, very glad you are walking with our Lord & Savior and can avail yourselves of His peace which passes mortal comprehension. So glad ! I have seen a Hallmark movie or 2 featuring you both and you come across as genuine people and even who might be Christians, which is always a joy & encouragement to discover someone is. Not bc we don't care about and appreciate others too, but bc of all the reasons this is a joy and relief, example & encouragement to see other believers in all walks of life. Helping others, even in tiny ways, be encouraged to come to know & trust Him.

[@MariaMellberg-iu5hm]

I have loved these 2 as actors cause I could see they had something different and I am so excited to see they are Christians and living their faith and journey. They are so real and using their platform for the kingdom of God. So beautiful

[@mrsdrock]

❤ they are precious

[@Azel461]

I like watching these two. They are very good actors and now I learn they are Christ driven. No wonder they are so good. When Inlearned they were married, I was very happy.

[@777saidybella]

Thank you❣️for sharing. My condolences, the idea that one day you will be with her again🙌🏼🙌🏼🙌🏼🌺

[@sirsymtz9921]

aww many prayers for their family, I've always liked watching the PenaVegas!🙏🏼🙏🏼i can't imagine😭thank God for the hope in Jesus that He has given us! very sorry for yalls loss, i had no idea🥺much love to yalls family💕

[@Royal-Junk]

Love them!

[@Churchgirl104]

Wonderful , faithful , sweet interview this couple is couple goals 100% love seeing their work in the world or just being amazing parents to their 3 kids helpful testimony to anyone who needs encouragement

[@helenfuhrman6269]

You are both amazing actors. Sorry for your loss.

[@rejoiceinallthangs]

I have to say that i really enjoyed the movie Mr . Manhattan. It was a great storyline that didn't mind praying or going to church or talking about having faith. It is amazing to see how the two of you are being drawn closer to GOD and each other as you wakk through the shadows. Thank you for your yes

[@mylesgoldsberry7526]

Carlos and Alexa, I'm so sorry for your loss. God will take good care of Indy, and she'll be with the angels looking down on you and her siblings. I'm also looking forward to watching your new film, and I'll bet it'll be as awesome as your other films on the Hallmark channel.

[@bbgirl6741]

Great couple n actors !

[@kkSH2023]

The last part is huge! So true what Carlos was trying to say

[@henryengellv5075]

This big time rush Carlos ? I used to love that show growing up and still admittedly listen to some of their songs from time to time. I’m so sorry to hear he lost a daughter though.😢

[@olMarialo]

Yes, this is Carlos from the band Big Time Rush.

[@JoyforChristJesus]

Jesus loves you all! And it's so nice to know a person i grew up watching ended up being one of the Lord's children. 🙏🏾

[@jessicaaileenflores191]

Que pareja tan bella y que transparentes😍😍😍 Y que amor por Jesús🥰🥰 tienen y por las almas que necesitan escuchar y ver este tipo de películas.Yo ya vi la película y me hizo llorar. Que excelente trabajo hicieron los dos. Los felicito. Estoy muy orgulloso de ellos. Y oro, para que Dios les siga dando mucha sabiduría en su matrimonio y fortaleza por la pérdida de su hija.

[@amandamcclendon9547]

So sorry for your loss my heart brokes for u guys

[@makeuplessonsforjoy7168]

It was great too meet you at Asbury University

[@profesorafleming4808]

Love this couple

[@megamamab333]

🙏🙏❤️❤️

[@nicolestern731]

I'm a 50-year-old lady and I love this couple so much.

[@brmm48]

I have a little comment. First of all ... So sorry for your loss. Secondly, my brother and I still love watching you guys from big time rush days OK now for the comment. I hope you both will keep making movies, because unfortunately, the Christian genre of movies seems fixated on trauma dramas. I call them trauma dramas I don’t watch television to relive trauma. I have enough of that in my life I watch television for a very short time of the day, when I’m eating with my family one meal together and it’s my wind downtime I get 20 minutes of wind down time a day. So yes, please keep making movies that are just a relaxing, enjoyable journey with a balance of humor and deep meaningful relatable content. So I was very surprised when you kissed your actress fiancé in the movie… What??? but seriously we love you guys!

[@whc6325]

Great movie!

[@jac5348]

❤❤❤❤❤

[@smc4jmj1]

🙏🏼❤️

[@Charlenedefin]

❤we love you 🇿🇦🇿🇦🇿🇦

[@teresabrown1802]

It was a great movie.

[@kimtreneman-pape6107]

God teaches tolerance.

[@crystallachapelle3400]

💛

[@lionheart3290]

Wow

[@laurageorgina589]

The title not Alex but Alexa.

[@megb6820]

What a great interview. Lifting prayers for you as you grieve your precious daughter.Praying also for Holy Spirit to be a protective “filler” during your conversations (I find praying for His help during a challenging one tends to make it go more smoothly), so that what is intended is what is said, what is said is what is heard, and what is heard is what is received. The verse that comes to mind is: 2 Corinthians 1:3-5 NASB Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, [4] who comforts us in all our affliction so that we will be able to comfort those who are in any affliction with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. [5] For just as the sufferings of Christ are ours in abundance, so also our comfort is abundant through Christ.

[@wendymullins30]

What movie r they talking abt?🤔

[@antonialovesyou4462]

We have to admit that Hollywood California needs a Lakewood Church like in Houston Texas.

[@zackzeman6449]

Amen🙏🏻

[@bettyrubble9420]

Hey Carlos, I prefer black and white, not grey, if you want to make worldly movies then go make them. Also I don’t think anyone wants the gospel dumbed down for them.

[@nicolletteaho]

How do you feel God when he literally made/allowed you to lose your baby like instead of saving the baby he’s just watching down being like yeah ill let them miscarry

[@carmenpailen3760]

Certain things I don’t agree with what she says. According to Matthew 6:6 NKJV: “But you, when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.”