Chosen to Lead: Paras Patel on Faith, Representation, and Season 5’s Emotional Journey

From the dusty roads of Galilee to the global spotlight, The Chosen has become a faith-based juggernaut—reaching millions through powerful storytelling and heartfelt performances. One of the series’ most compelling characters is Matthew, portrayed by Indian-American actor Paras Patel. Before landing the role that would change his life, Patel earned a bachelor’s degree in finance from the University of Florida and was on a very different path. His unexpected transition from crunching numbers to captivating audiences worldwide reflects the kind of transformative journey he now brings to life on screen. With Season 5 premiering on Amazon Prime, Patel opens up about what fans can expect from the upcoming episodes, how playing a neurodivergent disciple has reshaped his sense of purpose, and why this season—set during the emotionally weighty Holy Week—is the most transformative yet.

1. What can fans expect from Season 5 of The Chosen, and how does Matthew’s journey evolve?

This season you can expect a more observant Matthew. He is seeing people closest to him act in ways he has never seen before and is trying to process it all. He is also keeping detailed notes for his book and soaking it all in.

2. Playing a neurodivergent version of Matthew has been groundbreaking—how has that portrayal shaped your perspective as an actor?Portraying Matthew who is neurodivergent on the show has challenged me in pushing myself to dig deeper each season to authentically portray this beautiful community who feels so seen and represented through this portrayal. I am privileged to be an ambassador for the neurodivergent community and will always do my best to represent this community as best as I can. In many ways, it has given me my true purpose as an actor and it has been so fulfilling to see the impact it is having globally. I’ve also learned a lot about myself in my portrayal of Matthew, notably finding my inner voice and confidence.
3. Can you share any behind-the-scenes moments from filming Season 5 that were particularly meaningful to you?

Season 5 covers the timespan of one week, Holy Week, the most significant week in the story and series. There were several moments while filming The Last Supper scenes that were meaningful to me. One particular moment that stood out for me was after finishing the Last Supper scene, which we shot for two weeks, one of my castmates said this is the last time we will all be together as disciples. I realized we are almost done with the entire series, and I remember looking around the room and getting a bit emotional knowing that. We are all a close knit family so it was sad realizing that. It made those scenes that much more emotional to do. Also, knowing that the journey is nearing the end for our characters who have no idea what is ahead for them was heartbreaking. We did have plenty of lighthearted moments to balance out the emotional weight of the season though usually involving a bug crawling on someone during a take or a goat trying to upstage an actor!

4. The Chosen has become a global phenomenon—how has its massive success impacted your career and personal life?

Well, I definitely get recognized in random places around town now haha!

It’s all surreal. To start this show 7 years ago as a crowdfunded webseries where we didn’t know if we had enough money to finish the first season, to now releasing entire seasons globally in theaters and now premiering on Amazon Prime, is such a rare underdog story. Each season, the show levels up, and being able to witness the impact you are having on the audience at premieres worldwide as well as at Chosen events like Chosen Con, is humbling. I feel so honored to be a part of this phenomenon that is changing the world. It feels like I was “Chosen” to be here!

5. How do you prepare emotionally and mentally for portraying such a complex and historically significant role?

Knowing that our entire cast and crew are in the same headspace helps to really support and lean on one another when things get too heavy. We are an incredible support system to one another. Since I know where we are headed in the story, I’ve been mentally and emotionally prepared for a while. I don’t feel as much pressure as I did in the beginning of the show, because I feel so connected to my character and put all my heart in my portrayal and I think the audience sees that.

6. Have you received any personal messages from neurodivergent fans who resonate with your portrayal of Matthew?

The most recent one I got, this morning actually, was a pastor telling me that someone who is neurodivergent decided to get baptised and mentioned my portrayal as Matthew being instrumental in their faith journey. Another story is a father tearfully explaining he is able to communicate with his daughter more because when she was watching an episode of the show, she exclaimed “Matthew is just like me.” It allowed him and his wife to have a conversation and realize their child is neurodivergent and take the appropriate steps to ensure their child is comfortable but taken care of. The greatest takeaway is that families are able to understand their loved ones better and communicate through recognizing similar behaviors as Matthew’s. One of the most impactful stories I got was when I was in Brazil for our season 4 premiere and I had a supporter tell me in Portuguese thank you for this portrayal. We didn’t even know there was a term for autism, but we recognize the characteristics now through your show. I’ve gotten many messages that Matthew has inspired them to dig deeper into their faith and even find their faith in a way they never thought they would.

7. What has been the most challenging scene you’ve filmed for The Chosen so far?

I feel like every season I have a scene that definitely challenges me. The writers continue to challenge us each season in the best way and it really pushes us to be on our A game. I have been a part of scenes that range from a 15 minute one take (continuous filming, no stopping) to a 65 year old flash forward scene. Sometimes unpredictable weather can make some scenes challenging to film. For example, filming a scene when it is 2 degrees during a Texas snowpocalypse, basically filming anything outdoors during the summer in Texas, and even when a random dust storm appears in the middle of a scene being filmed when we were in Utah!

This show has really opened me up in terms of versatility as an actor and given me confidence in knowing what I can be capable of doing. Some scenes Matthew has in season 6 will definitely be challenging, but I’m ready for it.

8. The cast of The Chosen seems very close-knit—what has been the most rewarding part of working with this team?

We truly are a giant family, the cast and crew. It’s really rare to experience the success of The Chosen in the way we have (from a small web series to theatrical season launches and Amazon Prime), so it is a shared journey that only we can all relate to. We’ve been through a lot of ups and downs and obstacles together, that have made our bonds much stronger. I know I have lifelong friends with my cast and crew members. The most rewarding part of working together is that we all want the best from each other. There is no ego, no competition, just support and love.

9. With Season 5 premiering on Amazon Prime, how do you think streaming platforms are changing the game for faith-based storytelling?I think the streamers have finally caught on to the fact that there is strong demand and an audience for this kind of content. Other streamers have now created departments for faith based content as well. Streamers are more inclined to invest in these types of stories and content which I can’t help but feel that the success of The Chosen has helped fuel in its own way. I mean, there were always faith based projects, but I think the show kind of re-ignited that fire.
10. As an Indian-American actor, how have you navigated the Hollywood industry, and what challenges have you faced?I always felt like an outsider, even with the Indian-American actor circles here. It always felt kind of judgy based on how some would speak or treat you. I think it stems from the fact that there is a big insecurity that there isn’t enough space for everyone in terms of roles, so it creates this competitiveness rather than supporting one another. It also feels like you almost have to prove your worth to these groups to get into the inner circle and I am not for that. When it comes to the industry as a whole, it still is hard navigating Hollywood, especially since people judge the show without giving it a chance, or kind of refuse to acknowledge it is a successful show. I decided to just focus on my own journey and career and do my thing. The less outside noise the better. The story of an underdog is always a better one in my opinion.
11. Have you noticed a shift in Hollywood in terms of South Asian representation in leading roles?Honestly, not really. The same big names keep getting the big leading roles. I hope Hollywood leans into fresh casting and taking chances on unknowns. There is no reward without risk!
12. You’ve spoken about your passion for advocating for underrepresented voices—what changes would you like to see in the industry?

More representation for minorities and underrepresented groups across the board, and not just on camera but behind the scenes as well in terms of hiring crew, writers, etc. I do feel there is a change happening for more inclusion but it still has a way to go. Portraying these different backgrounds and groups in roles on tv/film is so important because it educates the audience and opens their minds. Portraying Matthew as neurodivergent really brought an awareness to the audience as well representation and acceptance for this community.

13. Faith-based films and shows rarely feature South Asian actors in key roles. How do you think your presence in The Chosen is breaking barriers?

Very true! I think my presence as a South Asian actor has really helped The Chosen but also myself. It’s important to say I didn’t get the part because of my background haha, though my background has definitely helped reach the South Asian audience in a way the show may not have expected.

I feel an immense sense of pride and honor representing the South Asian community. What is more impactful is seeing the audience’s response particularly those who are South Asian. They feel like they are seeing themselves whenever they see Matthew on screen. When you can relate to a character it connects to you in a deeper way and becomes so much more meaningful. When I was in India launching the show, I could see how proud they were to have someone who is South Asian be one of the faces of the show. I also feel that the show was able to see the demand and potential in this market and allowed them to expand in these areas. Representation is so important, and I think my presence on the show is a testament to that. It has also helped in more people discovering the show who don’t necessarily have a religious background, simply because they see a South Asian name on the cast. Word of mouth amongst the South Asian community is pretty powerful as well.

14. What advice would you give to aspiring South Asian actors trying to make it in Hollywood?

I would say that there is space for you, your vision, and your talent here. Just don’t give up. Use every ‘no’ (because there will be many) to build your podium, because all it takes is one ‘yes’ and your life can change. Then stand on that podium and let the world see what you have to offer. Also, I would say don’t be too hard on yourself and to just enjoy but trust the process. All good things take time, so stay focused and work on your craft.

15. The Chosen in the Wild with Bear Grylls is a unique departure from your scripted work—what excites you most about this adventure?

It was one of those bucket list moments for me! I grew up watching Bear Grylls and never thought in my wildest dreams I would work with him. It was truly an amazing experience and the opportunity came at a time when I felt like I needed something to help me recharge. Viewers are going to see me out of my element but totally dive into the challenges that come my way!

16. You’re also involved in The Chosen Adventures animated series. How does voice acting compare to on-screen acting for you?

It’s kind of trippy to see a cartoon version of your character! Voice acting can be a little challenging because at times, the artwork is not completed so you are just recording lines in a dubbing studio based on hearing queues. On the other hand when you are acting on camera, you are surrounded by your environment to help your performance. Voice acting does allow you to be more creative and use your imagination in a way, since you are literally just visualizing things to get the right emotion. The good thing about voice acting is that you don’t have to worry about forgetting a line, ha!

17. Beyond acting, you’ve expressed a love for Bollywood films. Would you ever consider working in Bollywood?

The first time I knew I wanted to work in entertainment was from watching a Bollywood film. My entire childhood was watching Bollywood films and listening to Hindi Music, I still do! I would love to fulfill that inner child dream of mine and work in the Hindi Film Industry. Hopefully I am one step closer to that given the success of The Chosen in India and globally.

18. Outside of acting, what’s a personal goal or dream project you hope to accomplish in the next few years?

As wild as it may sound, I would love to have a giant piece of land for animal rehabilitation or a sanctuary. I have always wanted to do something for animals as an animal lover. I also really want to work with more organizations geared towards the neurodivergent community and keep the “Matthew Legacy” going.

19. You lent your voice talent to Uncharted: The Lost Legacy—did you realize how massive the Uncharted franchise was before booking the project?

I had no idea! I found out after fact. It was my first voiceover ever, so I was just excited about booking the job!

As The Chosen continues to break barriers in faith-based media and representation, Paras Patel is doing the same both on and off screen. From championing neurodivergent visibility to inspiring South Asian viewers who finally see themselves in a leading role, Patel’s journey is one of quiet strength, authenticity, and impact. With a growing list of creative ventures—including animation, reality survival, and a Bollywood dream—he’s not just playing a role, he’s building a legacy.

Photographer DaMarko GianCarlo

Grooming Myrlen Monge

Wardrobe Tajay Dupree

Story Kyra Greene

Produced By The Greay Firm & The Coi Group

location Park & Lex Studios LA

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