House of David has taken Prime Video by storm, bringing to life one of the most powerful stories in the Bible from the Old Testament.
At the center of it all is Michael Iskander, the 23-year-old actor who plays the young shepherd destined to become King David.
But who exactly is the man behind this breakout role? From Broadway beginnings to portraying a biblical icon, Iskander’s journey is as fascinating as the character he plays.
Michael Iskander’s rise from Broadway to Biblical hero
Before becoming the face of House of David, Michael Iskander was treading the boards on Broadway.
The Egyptian-born actor first made waves in the Tony Award-winning musical Kimberly Akimbo, where his love for performing truly took shape and moulded his skills. It was while wrapping up that project that he came across the auditions for House of David, which was an opportunity that would soon change his life.
At just 23, Iskander landed the role of a lifetime after an international search that stretched across continents. Interestingly, he almost did not get the part. After his first audition, he was told no, only to be called back weeks later and given a second chance. He was encouraged by his mother to pray and fast before the second audition, and he gave it everything. Two months after this, the call came through, and he was cast as King David.
His Broadway experience, which involved both acting and singing, proved to be a surprising advantage. Iskander shared that learning to perform with rhythm and emotion helped him embody the lyrical, poetic side of David, who is known in scripture for his music and psalms.
Becoming David in House of David: faith, training, and transformation
Portraying one of the Old Testament’s most prominent characters came with its own set of challenges, but Michael Iskander embraced each one of them with every ounce of his soul and mind.
For House of David, he didn’t just study the scriptures; he also immersed himself in the world of the shepherd boy-turned-king. To bring a sense of realism to the role, Iskander even did some sheep-handling training to understand the everyday life that David had once lived.
Known for his dedication, the young actor also purchased a 10-string lyre online and taught himself to play, so he could properly get a hold of David’s musical essence. Learning Hebrew prayers, particularly the Shema, became another part of his preparation, which is something he says deepened his connection to the character’s faith.
The scenes, especially the face-off with Goliath (played by 6’8” MMA fighter Martyn Ford), highlight not just David’s courage but also Iskander’s own transformation as an actor. Through vulnerability and quiet conviction, he channeled the same resilience that defines the biblical hero, which made his portrayal relatable as well as inspiring to modern audiences.
At only 23, Michael Iskander has achieved what many actors dream of: a breakout role that defines their career. His performance in House of David proves that passion and preparation can turn even the most daunting challenge into art.
From Broadway lights to ancient Israel, Iskander’s journey mirrors David’s own rise - from humble beginnings to a King, he makes this casting one of the most fitting choices Prime Video could have made.
Stay tuned to SoapCentral for more updates on House of David.