Actor Reza Diako says audiences should brace for an emotionally charged sixth season of “The Chosen” as the series reaches its dramatic and spiritual climax.

According to the Christian Post, the new season will depict the final days of Jesus Christ’s life, deepening emotional storylines while continuing the show’s mission to humanize biblical characters.

Reza Diako, who portrays the Apostle Philip in the globally streamed series “The Chosen,” gave fans a glimpse into what they can expect from season six, calling the upcoming episodes spiritually profound and emotionally intense. Diako joined the ensemble in season four and has quickly become a vital presence in the show’s depiction of Jesus' close followers.

Originally launched as a crowdfunded project, “The Chosen” has expanded its reach significantly, now available in over 175 countries. The sixth season will roll out exclusively on Amazon Prime Video in three parts during June, with episodes one and two scheduled for June 15, followed by episodes three through five on June 22 and the final three on June 29.

This season will include eight episodes focusing on the events leading up to the crucifixion, a storyline that sets the tone for a weightier and more emotionally complex narrative compared to previous seasons.

The actor draws on life experience to shape the role

Before becoming an actor, Diako studied psychology and earned a master’s degree in mental health. He also spent time in medical school, which he says helps him understand character emotions on a deeper level.

This academic background influences his detailed approach to portraying Philip. Diako has described his preparation process as one of constant questioning and emotional excavation, looking into everything from his character's past to his motivations and inner conflicts.

“Acting preparation is about curiosity,” he told The Christian Post. “You’re always asking: What’s underneath? What motivates someone?” Diako uses this process to explore why Philip chose to leave home and follow both John the Baptist and, later, Jesus.

Philip’s spiritual journey and group role take center stage

First introduced in season two, Philip is unique among the disciples in that he actively sought out Jesus rather than needing persuasion. Diako said this reflects a deeper longing in Philip — a search for meaning beyond the material or conventional.

Diako connects with his character’s nomadic spirituality, sharing that he has lived in four different countries. “When you do that,” he said, “you start focusing more on metaphorical and spiritual values than material structures.”

Within the group of disciples, Philip functions as a harmonizer. He tries to ease tension and redirect others back to their shared purpose. This was particularly evident in season five, during the events of the Last Supper, when the gravity of Jesus’ impending death created strain among the followers.

Season six builds on long-term character arcs

Diako emphasized that this new season is the result of several years of slow and deliberate storytelling. “It’s not just a reenactment of an iconic moment,” he said. “It’s more like losing a family member.”

He noted how the long-term development of characters allows for more impact when emotionally significant moments occur. The relationships among the cast members have deepened over time, and Diako said that chemistry will show in this next chapter of the show.

The season follows themes of betrayal, ambition, and spiritual conflict, first hinted at in last year’s special “The Chosen: Last Supper,” which debuted in theaters and previewed the rising internal tensions among the disciples.

Emotional honesty drives storytelling appeal

Audiences have praised "The Chosen" for its grounded portrayals and emotionally honest writing. Diako said the characters resonate because they reflect real human challenges, including trauma, faith crises, and interpersonal conflict.

“These are real people — people you could find today in a classroom, a workshop, an office,” Diako explained. “And yet, they’re brought together for something extraordinary.” The key, he said, is showing how ordinary people respond to extraordinary circumstances.

Diako reflected on a moment in season five where Jesus discloses his imminent death, and the disciples, though they hear it, choose not to emotionally process it. He described this reaction as deeply human, capturing how people often resist painful truths even when they know them to be real.

Global reach continues to grow with Amazon deal

With a new partnership with Amazon Prime Video, “The Chosen” is poised to reach even more viewers. The show’s expansion represents a significant leap from its humble crowdfunding origins, now providing spiritual storytelling on a worldwide scale.

“This show is growing in every way,” Diako said. “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.”

Diako believes that this universal message is what allows the show to connect across cultures and belief systems. “In times like these,” he said, “a show that speaks to faith, unity, and compassion will naturally connect.”

High emotional stakes mark the latest season

The cast and crew have referred to themselves as a family, which Diako calls the "Chosen family." That camaraderie, he said, has played a role in crafting more emotionally resonant scenes as the story progresses toward its climax.

According to Diako, season six marks a turning point not just in narrative weight, but also in performance and character dynamics. “Everyone knows each other so well now, and that chemistry shows,” he said, emphasizing how the emotional stakes are higher than ever.

“If you’re the kind that enjoys intensity, then I suppose you’re very excited for what’s coming,” Diako said. “If you can’t handle it, then I’m so sorry, but it’s still going to happen.”

“Season six will be intense, yes,” he added. “But if you hold on, you’ll see the good news that comes next. So hold your chairs tight.”