(Photo: “The Chosen”)
Season six of the acclaimed series “The Chosen” is set to take audiences on an emotional journey unlike any before, according to Reza Diako, who portrays the Apostle Philip. The show, which brings the life of Christ to the screen, has captivated viewers worldwide with its unique storytelling.
“If you’re the kind that enjoys intensity, then I suppose you’re very excited for what’s coming,” Diako shared with The Christian Post. “If you can’t handle it, then I’m so sorry, but it’s still going to happen.”
Directed by Dallas Jenkins, the upcoming season delves into the final days of Jesus’ life, adding layers of emotional and spiritual intricacy, built over several seasons of character development.
“We know where the story is going,” Diako revealed. “It’s painful. It’s difficult. But what makes it different with ‘The Chosen’ is that we’ve built a journey with these characters for five, six seasons. So it’s not just a reenactment of an iconic moment. It’s more like losing a family member.”
Initially a crowdfunded project, “The Chosen” has achieved global recognition, streaming in over 175 countries and recently partnering with Amazon Prime to broaden its audience. Diako, who joined in season four, embodies Philip, a character he describes as an outsider with a crucial role in unifying the disciples.
“It’s been quite a ride from day one,” Diako reflected, noting the familial atmosphere among the cast and crew, collectively referred to as the ‘Chosen family.’
Philip, introduced in the second season, is depicted as a unique and deeply spiritual follower who chose Jesus out of conviction rather than coercion. “Philip is interesting because he sought out Jesus,” Diako remarked. “That’s rare. Most of the disciples had to be convinced. But he saw something and responded. And I think that tells you something about his character — that he’s seeking something almost ineffable.”
Diako relates to Philip’s spiritual quest, drawing parallels to his own life experiences across different cultures. “I’ve been to four different countries and had to adapt to different cultures and systems,” he said. “When you do that, you start focusing more on metaphorical and spiritual values than material structures. That helped me connect with Philip, someone who’s had to let go of comfort and still found a way to lead.”
Before acting, Diako’s background in psychology and mental health informs his portrayal of Philip, offering depth to his character development. “Acting preparation is about curiosity, never stopping the process of asking questions,” he explained. “With my background, whether it’s psychology or medicine, you’re always asking: What’s underneath? What motivates someone? What’s their childhood like? Why did Philip leave his home and go to the wilderness with John? Why did he leave that for Jesus? You build from the ground up.”
The “Last Supper” episode, which debuted theatrically, highlighted rising tensions among the disciples and will be available on Prime Video in three parts: June 15, June 22, and June 29. “Philip is kind of the glue,” Diako explained. “He’s the one who tries to make everyone feel comfortable, who navigates the tension between Simon Peter, Matthew, and others. He comes in with this message of: ‘Let’s focus on the path we’re walking with Jesus, not the chaos around us.’”
One poignant moment for Diako during season five was the depiction of the Last Supper, where Jesus speaks openly about His impending death, and the disciples grapple with acceptance. “They hear it, but they don’t want to understand,” he said. “That hit me because it’s such a human reaction. We get signs, we know the truth deep down, but sometimes we just don’t want to face it. We resist. And yet, we’re still called to keep walking forward.”
“The Chosen” is celebrated for bringing a human perspective to biblical narratives, a factor contributing to its broad appeal. “One of the reasons I love ‘The Chosen’ is that it makes everything so accessible,” Diako noted. “You see the trauma, the confusion, the personality clashes. These are real people — people you could find today in a classroom, a workshop, an office. And yet, they’re brought together for something extraordinary.”
This emotional relatability, according to Diako, is why the series continues to resonate globally. “In times like these — with so much hatred, division, doubt — a show that speaks to faith, unity, and compassion will naturally connect,” he said. “From the beginning, ‘The Chosen’ has focused on the outcast. You see how Jesus treats Mary Magdalene, how he sees Matthew. That touches something in everyone.”
As the series approaches heavier themes in season six, Diako hopes viewers experience a renewed sense of hope and perspective. “Season six will be intense, yes,” he said. “But the story itself, the writing, the performances, the heart, has also grown. Everyone knows each other so well now, and that chemistry shows. The stakes are higher. The emotions are deeper. But if you hold on, you’ll see the good news that comes next. So hold your chairs tight.”
“This show is growing in every way,” Diako added. “It’s expanding. It’s reaching people. And it’s reminding all of us that the story of Jesus isn’t just sacred; it’s human. And that’s what makes it so powerful.”
This article was originally written by www.christiantoday.com
