Alumna Holly Kuespert Caruso ’82 Produces Netflix Film Mary, Blessed by the Pope

Sacred Heart of Mary High School alumna Holly Kuespert Caruso ’82 recently celebrated the release of Mary, a new film now streaming on Netflix. Produced by Holly and directed by her husband, DJ Caruso, the film tells the story of the Virgin Mary—from her miraculous birth, to her betrothal to Joseph, to the angel Gabriel’s announcement that she would give birth to the Son of God. It also explores the hardships Mary faced, including being shunned by her community and later fleeing with Joseph and Jesus to escape the wrath of King Herod, portrayed by Academy Award-winner Anthony Hopkins.

In a remarkable moment for the filmmakers, Holly and DJ Caruso had the opportunity to meet the late Pope Francis, who offered his blessing for the film.

Beyond the entertainment world, Holly leads a life of service rooted in compassion and impact. She is the president and founder of the Redeeming Love Foundation, which supports charitable initiatives around the world. She also serves as president and CFO of Whitecap Entertainment and is the program director of the Los Angeles chapter of Blessings in a Backpack, an organization that provides food on weekends to children facing food insecurity.

Holly’s philanthropic work extends even further—she is a founding member of the Spiritual Care Guild at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, a member of the Founders Circle of Kidspace Museum in Pasadena, and a former board member for the Circle of Huntington Hospital. She also chaired the finance committee for OLGASA, serving three of the most underserved schools in Los Angeles, and currently serves on the Board of Trustees for Hands Together Haiti.

The Saint Viator and Sacred Heart of Mary Alumni Association is proud to celebrate Holly’s accomplishments in film and service and to congratulate her on the release of Mary, a powerful and faith-filled contribution to the world of storytelling.