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'Unsung Hero' sheds light on the Smallbone family's incredible journey to musical stardom

Starring Joel as David Smallbone and Daisy Betts as Helen Smallbone, the film revolves around the Smallbone family

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: 'Unsung Hero', an upcoming American Christian drama film directed by Richard Ramsey and Joel Smallbone, is based on a remarkable true story.

Starring Joel as David Smallbone, Daisy Betts as Helen Smallbone, Kirrilee Berger as Rebecca St. James, Jonathan Jackson as Eddie DeGarmo, and Candace Cameron Bure as Kay Albright, the film delves into the story of the Smallbone family, focusing on siblings St James, Joel, and Luke, as they navigate their path to becoming Christian recording artists.

The official synopsis of the film reads, "David Smallbone, his pregnant wife, and their seven children leave Australia to rebuild their lives in America. David and Helen realize the musical talent of their children, who become two of the most successful acts in Inspirational Music history."

The film is scheduled to be released in the United States on Friday, April 26, 2024, by Lionsgate. 

Let's discuss the real-life story of 'Unsung Hero'.

The film delves into David Smallbone's remarkable journey from Australia to the United States

'Unsung Hero' chronicles the pivotal journey of David Smallbone, who made the life-changing decision to relocate his family from Australia to Nashville, Tennessee, United States, in 1991.

After his music company collapsed, David, a music promoter, decided to seek a fresh start in the United States, as reported by The Tennessean.

Despite the challenges that lay ahead, David's resilience and determination to overcome adversity served as a beacon of hope for his family.

With just their children, a few suitcases, and a deep love for music, David and his pregnant wife, Helen Smallbone, embarked on a journey to rebuild their lives.

According to The Tennessean, the journey from Australia to Nashville was neither easy nor inexpensive for the Smallbone family. They had to use the majority of their family's savings to cover the cost of airfare.

As the imminent birth of their seventh child approached, David remained unemployed. Despite the uncertainty of their circumstances, Helen gave birth to their seventh child, marking a poignant moment in their journey.

After the Smallbone family settled in Nashville, David actively searched for employment. He also took his oldest daughter, St James, who was 14 years old at the time, up and down Nashville's Music Row, aiming to secure her a record deal.

Two years after their move to Nashville, St James' dedication and talent paid off when she was signed to ForeFront Records.

Who is Rebecca St. James?

Rebecca St James, the daughter of David and Helen, is an Australian-American contemporary Christian singer, songwriter, and actress.

St James achieved fame in the late 1990s with her RIAA-certified Gold albums 'God' and 'Pray.' The album 'Pray' notably won a Grammy Award in 1999 for Best Rock Gospel Album, solidifying her status as a talented and respected artist in the music industry.

During this time, St James' music not only garnered commercial success but also connected with listeners on a deeper level. 

According to a report by Solo Parent Organization, Helen, St  James' mother, played a crucial role in her daughter's career, offering unwavering support and encouragement throughout her journey to fame.

St James is also best known for films like 'Left Behind: The Movie,' 'The First Easter,' 'Unidentified,' 'Sarah's Choice,' 'Rising Stars,' and 'Faith of Our Fathers.'

How family values fueled For King & Country's rise to fame

Joel and Luke joined forces to establish the band 'For King & Country' in 2007. Their shared passion for music and deep-rooted family values laid the foundation for their musical journey.

In 2008, Joel and Luke released their first EP, 'A Tale of Two Towns' in the comfort of their parents' home, which served as a creative sanctuary for the brothers. 

Over the years, despite their rising success, the brothers faced various hardships. In 2011, the duo, now known as For King & Country, returned to the studio to record what would become their first three singles: 'Busted Heart,' 'Proof of Your Love,' and 'Middle of Your Heart.'

In 2013, Joel also embarked on his acting career, taking on the role of King Xerxes in 'The Book of Esther' and portraying Jake Reeson in 'Like a Country Song.'

One of his most notable roles came in 2016 when he was cast in the leading role of James Stevens in the film 'Priceless.'

Joel has embarked on an intriguing new chapter in his acting career, as he is set to portray his father, David, in the upcoming film 'Unsung Heroes.'

'Unsung Hero' trailer