The cast of “The Chosen” recently shared powerful insights into filming the Last Supper scene, describing it as an emotionally intense and humbling experience. During an exclusive interview with Charisma Media in Dallas, Texas, they opened up about the challenges, the historical depth and the spiritual impact of portraying one of the most significant moments in Scripture.
From the outset, the actors admitted they were unprepared for how deeply moving the experience would be. Stepping into the scene, they felt the weight of history and faith pressing upon them.
“It was so surreal. It felt like time stood still,” says Noah James, who plays Andrew on the show. “And you want to do honor by this moment in time. You want to really try to bring to life what would it be like to sit at this table and hear these words.”
To bring authenticity to the portrayal, the cast participated in a traditional Passover meal, led by Rabbi Jason Sobel. The experience gave them a new appreciation for the historical and spiritual significance of the event.
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“I grew up Greek Orthodox, and hearing about the Last Supper, I was not thinking about what was on the table,” says George Xanthis, who plays the apostle John. “It taught me so much about that, and as an actor it was fascinating.”
Filming the Last Supper took six days, with grueling late-night shoots that added to the emotional intensity of the moment, the actors even coming back at 3:00 a.m. to film in real time what the scene would have been like.
“It’s tense, it’s palpable,” says actor Shahar Isaac who plays Simon Peter. “I think it really does give breath to everything that is happening, this kind of tension of something is about to happen.”
One of the most impactful moments, according to the cast, was filming the triumphal entry. With over 600 extras cheering and laying down their garments, the actors were overwhelmed by the love and emotion on set.
“It felt like ‘I’m not worthy to have that sort of reception,'” says James.
With each scene, “The Chosen” not only captures the historical reality of Jesus’ final days but also invites audiences into a deeper reflection on the profound love and sacrifice at the core of the Gospel message. The kick-off for season is tomorrow, Friday, Mar. 28, with the premier of Part I in theaters nationwide.
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Abby Trivett is content development editor for Charisma Media.
