A Journey Beyond the Slingshot: Michael Iskander on Portraying David in ‘House of David’ Season 2

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In the dynamic world of television, rapid production turnarounds are a rarity, yet the creators of House of David managed to achieve just that. Season one wrapped up, and filming for season two commenced almost immediately, delighting fans with a seamless continuation of the much-coveted biblical series. Recently, I had the pleasure to catch up with Michael Iskander, who plays the title role of David, to shed light on the journey from season one to season two.

Seasonal Transition

Reflecting on the swift transition between the seasons, I expressed, “Isn’t that wild? How often does that happen, right, that quick of a turnaround for a show?” Michael agreed and stated, “It’s great ’cause, fans can tune back into the same show that they enjoyed so much in season one.” This quick return to the screens has allowed audiences to relive the adventures of David without missing a beat, offering a fresh perspective to the storytelling from where Goliath fell.

The Evolution of David

One notable evolution from season one to season two is David’s transformation. I commented, “For your character just to pick up right in the middle of this battle…there’ve been battles before in House of David, but this is the first time you’re in the center of it.” Michael elaborated on portraying David’s growth, sharing, “David…he’s a different person now. He’s someone that…has a bit of confidence. He took down the giant.”

This metamorphosis of David is beautifully captured as the show progresses, demonstrating how the once youthful shepherd boy grows into a confident leader. Michael acknowledges portraying this journey is a delicate balance: “Part of portraying that change is portraying David’s…earnestness of himself and him still trying to figure out his place in the world.”

On-Screen and Off-Screen Learning

Sharing insights gleaned from the entire production experience, Michael credits his character for his own personal development. “Alongside with him, I am also learning that and taking pages out of his book,” he said. Working with veteran actors like Stephen Lang, who plays Samuel, has been instrumental in his growth. Describing Stephen’s influence, Michael shared, “Very similar to his character he is, he is both a mentor and a guide to me offscreen…and he’s a professional.”

Themes and Lessons Personified

The essence of House of David extends beyond entertainment to deliver poignant lessons. When asked about the theme messages for viewers, Michael highlighted important values David embodies, noting, “He does what he’s told and he’s put in very difficult circumstances…yet he does not falter.” Amongst these values, David’s ability to love his enemies stands out, a timeless lesson of forgiveness and resilience. 

The seamless narrative flow and thematic depth ensure House of David resonates with audiences on multiple levels. As we concluded, it’s clear the series not only captivates but also inspires.

Looking Ahead

It has been a delightful journey exploring the layers of David’s character with Michael Iskander, and audiences eagerly anticipate the unfolding drama and lessons of season three. 

With each episode, House of David continues to draw its viewers into a world where faith, courage, and humanity are tested, creating ripples that extend far beyond the biblical narrative. House of David season two is available on the Wonder Project subscription on Prime Video in the U.S.