Michael Iskander on Playing King David, Faith Conversion, and Faith-Based Media

Journey into Acting and Faith

• 🎭 Michael Iskander, at 24, shares his early passion for acting, initially pursued despite his family's medical background.
• 💡 A high school choir director became a pivotal mentor, guiding him toward his acting aspirations.
• 🚀 He deferred medical school plans after booking a role on Broadway in "Kimberly Akimbo," marking a significant career turn.

Portraying King David

• 👑 Iskander felt a deep connection to playing King David, a dream solidified by watching "The Chosen."
• ⚔️ Preparation involved learning to use a sling, practicing the harp, studying scripture, and engaging in prayer and fasting.
• 🙏 He aimed to honor David and portray him on "God's terms," allowing the Holy Spirit to speak through the character.
• 🌟 David's importance is linked to his role as an Old Testament messianic figure and ancestor of Jesus.

Conversion to Catholicism

• ✝️ Iskander, baptized Coptic Orthodox and attending non-denominational churches, recently converted to Catholicism.
• 🏛️ A visit to St. Patrick's Cathedral was a profound experience, planting a seed that led him to seriously explore Catholicism.
• 🤝 After discussions with a priest specializing in interfaith dialogue, he formally converted through a profession of faith.
• ✨ He describes his conversion as a tremendous blessing, leading to daily growth with Christ and a deeper appreciation for the Eucharist.

Faith-Driven Storytelling and Media

• 🎶 Iskander sang the Shema in Hebrew for "House of David," a decision inspired by his Egyptian heritage and Eastern musical influences.
• 🎧 He produced an album of Psalms from the show, sung in Hebrew with Eastern instrumentation, offering a glimpse into ancient music.
• 🌟 He hosted a "Saints and Seven" series on King David for the Hallow app and is participating in the Advent Pray 25 challenge.
• 🗣️ He believes faith-based media should signify excellence, not be perceived as "cringe," and that the Bible offers endless stories.
• 📈 Iskander observes a growing openness to faith in society and media, citing "The Passion" and "The Chosen" as paving the way for projects like "House of David."

The Complexity of King David

• 💔 David is portrayed not as a perfect figure, but as a human with significant faults, including his actions with Bathsheba.
• ❤️ Despite his mistakes, his title "man after God's own heart" highlights God's mercy and grace, demonstrating a path back to God regardless of how far one has fallen.
• 🎯 This relatability and the message of God looking at the heart, not outward appearance, is central to David's enduring significance.

Future Aspirations

• 🎬 Iskander hopes to continue telling David's story and is open to future projects that bring virtuous stories and Christ to the screen.
• 🙏 He trusts God's guidance for his career, believing his path is for God's glory.
• 🤝 He remains grounded in his faith by staying true to himself, showing Christ through actions, and trusting in God's support.