Michael Iskander, the 23-year-old actor known for his lead role in Prime Video’s biblical drama “House of David,” has publicly announced his conversion to Catholicism.

According to CNA, on August 21, Iskander shared on Instagram that he had officially become Catholic, marking a deeply personal spiritual milestone after what he describes as years of internal reflection and calling.

Iskander rose to prominence portraying King David in "House of David," a hit series produced by Wonder Project that focuses on faith-based storytelling. The first season earned more than 40 million views globally and reached the No. 1 spot on Prime Video in the United States.

His journey to the role, much like his spiritual path, was not straightforward. After initially auditioning for the part, Iskander was turned down. However, he was invited to return for a second audition and, after fasting and praying based on his mother's advice, was offered the role two months later.

Instagram post reflects actor's faith journey

On the day of his announcement, Iskander posted on Instagram, stating, “Today is a very special day, that, looking back, has been a long time in the making. Today I joined the Catholic faith.”

He described the decision as one that had grown over time, saying he had felt drawn to Catholicism for years. He added, “As time went on, this calling became louder and louder.”

The actor credited meaningful relationships that had helped guide him spiritually and emphasized that his conversion was only the beginning. “This is the beginning of the journey,” he wrote. “Please pray for me as I continue my walk with God.”

The role of David deepened the actor’s scripture engagement

Iskander has spoken openly about the responsibility of portraying King David, a major figure in Judeo-Christian tradition. In an interview, he noted the importance of spiritual depth when preparing to inhabit such a character.

“Keeping in mind the reverence for Scripture and what he means biblically,” Iskander said, he committed to reading Psalms and the Book of Samuel regularly on set. This helped him focus on David’s inner life and spiritual connection with God, rather than just the historical figure.

He emphasized that portraying a religious figure should not center on the actor but on the spiritual message. “It’s not about me,” he said in an interview with Naomi Raine, “it’s about someone willing to do his will.”

Spiritual calling influences artistic choices

At Liberty University’s convocation, where he spoke about the intersection of faith and the arts, Iskander reflected on the challenge of maintaining spiritual humility while playing such influential roles.

He cautioned fellow actors against making religious portrayals about personal fame or talent. “It’s easy for actors in roles like this to make it about the human being rather than about God,” he said.

He also noted that his disappointment after initially being rejected for the role helped form his trust in God’s timing. “There’s going to be rejection,” he said, adding that challenges are part of a faith-filled path. “The only way you get through is with [God].”

Faith-based studio sees rising demand

The studio behind “House of David,” Wonder Project, was founded to create content rooted in Christian values. Its partnership with Prime Video has helped amplify faith-centered storytelling to broader audiences.

In June, Wonder Project announced a new subscription service offered through Prime Video, aimed at giving early access to its programs. The second season of “House of David” is slated to premiere through this exclusive channel in fall 2025 before becoming available to all Prime Video users.

Iskander’s spiritual development appears to mirror the growing popularity of religious storytelling in media, as audiences seek content with deeper moral and spiritual themes. “The show, for me,” he said, “should be called ‘House of the Lord,’ because it’s about him.”

Actor connects personal and professional faith

Iskander has long dreamed of portraying King David, but said he never imagined it would become a reality. By tying his professional role to his personal faith, he has found a sense of mission in his work.

“David’s heart was for the Lord,” he noted, and that same goal guides his performance. In every scene, he tries to locate “where the Holy Spirit can be found.”

His conversion to Catholicism is not just a private act of faith; it reflects a broader commitment to using his platform to share spiritual insight. For Iskander, it is one more step in a journey shaped by prayer, reflection, and artistic purpose.