Photo credit: people.com

Understanding Judas: Luke Dimyan’s Journey in The Chosen

Luke Dimyan has taken viewers on a profound journey over three seasons as he embodies the complex character of Judas Iscariot in the acclaimed series The Chosen. The actor is now gearing up for the series’ fifth season and reflects on how portraying this controversial figure has deepened his understanding of Judas.

“Having spent three seasons with this character, I’ve truly had the opportunity to build upon his narrative and understand his motivations,” Dimyan, 38, shared in a recent interview. “It has been a privilege to explore his perspectives and the factors that shape his beliefs and ideals.”

Describing Judas as a person of profound faith, Dimyan emphasizes the character’s deep-rooted commitment to his community. “He witnesses his loved ones suffering under the oppressive yoke of Roman authority amid a religious framework that neglects their needs,” he elaborates.

Dimyan characterizes Judas not merely as a traitor but as a man yearning for change. “His desire for transformation leads him to seek a messiah, someone he believes he can trust. When that figure fails to fulfill his hopes for salvation, Judas resorts to extreme measures, driven by desperation to ignite the change he craves,” he explains.

Taking on the role of such an influential and polarizing character carries considerable pressure. Dimyan notes the importance of approaching the role with both respect and a sense of release. “It’s essential to honor the source material and the diverse beliefs surrounding these figures,” he says.

“At the same time, one must also let go of the burden of expectations. We place our trust in the script provided by our brilliant writers and dedicate ourselves to thorough research about these historical figures. By doing so, we aim to portray them truthfully, adding our own interpretations while keeping the narrative grounded,” he continues.

His co-stars echo this sentiment. Noah James, who plays Andrew the Apostle, acknowledges the weight of representation. “We certainly feel the pressure of portraying these pivotal historical figures. However, we recognize that discovering their humanity lies not in the idealized portrayals but in their real-life struggles and experiences,” he remarks.

The series has recently showcased its episode titled The Chosen: Last Supper, which was released in theaters in three installments and is now available across select theaters nationwide. Fans looking forward to the complete fifth season can anticipate its arrival on streaming platforms such as Prime Video, expected in 2025.

Source
people.com