Meet our man of action, Alaa Safi (a.k.a. Simon the Zealot)

From Doctor Strange to Indiana Jones (with The Chosen between), Dallas sits down with the man who’s brought Simon Z to life, Alaa Safi. In this talk, you’ll learn about Alaa’s background as an actor, stunt man, and martial artist who’s able to powerfully portray a warrior-turned-disciple.
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[@TheChosenSeries]

Watch Simon Z's journey throughout the show in our NEW "The Chosen" app. Here is the link to download: new.thechosen.tv/#app

[@KB_2161]

Dallas, you and your team are igniting a fire all over the world. Talk about a woke world? I give you The Chosen! You really woke the world! Bravo! (BTW, the writing, the acting, the sets, the directing, the meticulous preparation is astounding. The extras that we see, the director reactions and the interviews with the team just adds to the fire. God bless you)

[@theresayates8587]

Yall need to do this in for for young kids to learn also theresa nizzell yes my husband was in us army21 yr retired now we're married 35 yrs was together sence 8th grade the chosen is the best I share everyone even people I don't know

[@erock5b]

I enjoy the show, but I realized there is something you may want to address. Matthias was said to have accompanied Jesus from the time of his baptism through the ascension, and he replaced Judas as an apostle. You might consider somehow writing Matthias into the show to be consistent with Biblical literature. God Bless your work and those whom it reaches!

[@erock5b]

​ @The Chosen I enjoy the show, but I realized there is something you may want to address. Matthias was said to have accompanied Jesus from the time of his baptism through the ascension, and he replaced Judas as an apostle. You might consider somehow writing Matthias into the show to be consistent with the Biblical narrative. I've posted multiple places in hopes you all will see it. God Bless your work and those whom it reaches!

[@marcemyers7301]

Your message and the love Dallas and cast show emirates in your action. Love the Chosen . I am pretty strong in my church but this has brought me closer to know Jesus even more. Thank you.. Gracias to all involved in any way.

[@beolacarter6244]

My favorite scene of Simon Z was when he’d bowed on his knees in front of the zealots who opposed him and were ready to kill him, but he’d calmly declared he was ready to die for Jesus. Phenomenal!

[@bril7369]

Agreed! But it also begs the question, how can the Z cower on that infamous night. They are setting things up so well. It will be sad to see the brave Zealot run and hide. Fear is a powerful thing that not even the Apostles were immune too.

[@fifteenbyfive]

Yes what a beautiful scene that was. He made it clear he was completely at peace in his life and thus ready to die if that's what it came down to.

[@jimwinchester339]

Agreed! He absolutely knocked it out of the park. Portrayed so powerfully the extreme cost that commitment to Christ cost him.

[@dottie8249]

I was quite surprised at how quiet Alaa is. As Simon Z he is so forceful! He really adds a lot to the part!

[@hyperchord]

Yes!

[@susanr1720]

I agree. I was surprised by his calm manner & voice & even that he appeared younger than Z.

[@nimhorvashum6779]

Ohh hi Lmllloiu ka mlln nk koo

[@theself5738]

Any true advanced martial artist would have deep silence, humility, and wisdom within himself, and use his energy where it is appropriate without unnecessary antics and show. They don’t make a show of their power unless it is required. So it’s only a surprise that people would not know this. A wise man would not blabber like an idiot

[@camillewilliams3185]

I'm actually not surprised. Even as Z he's pretty intense and quiet for the most part

[@bonnielaarman1878]

I am impressed with the character "Z" because he was willing to die by the hands of the Zealots than deny his faith...he knew he would go to Heaven if he died.. It touched me!😊

[@Nightman221k]

Alaa is awesome as Simon Z. He's one of my favorite characters. I love the moment when he and Matthew cast out the evil spirit during the two-by-two mission. And of course I was impressed with the way that he was introduced with the story of Jesse. Their whole story was so moving. The moment when Jesus looked at Zee when Veronica mentioned that she was told by Jesse of Jesus' ability to heal people, the look of happiness that Zee's big brother was helping direct others to Jesus was wonderful. I can't wait to see more scenes with Simon the Zealot.

[@phoenix4405]

I don't remember in which episode and season Veronica was told about Jesus by the man at the pool, and I also don't know who is that man. Can you tell me?? :(

[@Nightman221k]

@@phoenix4405 Sure! Season 3 episode 5, it's after Jesus healed Veronica. Jesus asks her how she knew knew He could heal her and she says that the man at the pool told her.

[@phoenix4405]

@@Nightman221k Thank you so much. But I meant, was the event where she was told by a man in the pool already shown prior to the Season 3, Eps 5? Like I don't know the season and episode that show the reference of this particular event. I also don't remember the reference of this event having something to do with Simon Z. If you know, please let me know because I'm really curious about it. In fact, I only started and finished watching the Season 3 in like 2 days ago. And I finished watching Season 1 and Season 2 last year so I have forgotten a lot of the details.

[@Nightman221k]

@@phoenix4405 oh, the scene where she was told about it was never shown on screen. It was just mentioned as having happened off screen.

[@phoenix4405]

@@Nightman221k Ahh I see, thank you so much.😇

[@lindaz2284]

A humble man. Gifted, talented, renowned, and humble. A rare combination.

[@Readit4Life_2Chron7_14]

Extremely rare now in the world of it's all about me. Especially in the acting world. Shout out to his parents!!!

[@julialongstreth5890]

I LOVE how Zee embraces Matthew with his bear hug after they have been assigned to go two by two!! 😂❤

[@hazelkagey6739]

Dallas, I am amazed that you find such extremely talented actors from all over this world to be part of this marvelous series! Love what Alaa brings to the Chosen!

[@nancyconnolly9539]

Alaa is such a great actor. He brings Simon Z to life as only he could. Even when he’s not speaking, you can see and feel his heart in some of the scenes!

[@elainelittauauthor2218]

Z is a favorite of mine. His character is layered so well in The Chosen.

[@AgainstTheCurrentPodcast]

Alaa’s a legend. Super talented physically and all around a creative genius.

[@user-xb4by4vx6n]

Season 2, episode 4 with Simon the Zealot and his brother has been my favorite. The entire episode was one plot twist after another. It was so well written, directed and acted. Everything about it is Emmy gold. Ever since this episode, Zee has been my favorite character. Alaa is a very talented actor.

[@arlenepardo24]

I love Alaa Safi…he is one of my favorites. Great actor! There is something in him that tells me he is a beautiful soul. Excellent performance!

[@pe9147]

Alaa Safi. He is one of my favourite. His humbleness. Such a beautiful soul ❤

[@cloudsplitter24]

My favorite reaction was when his character was told Simon the Sicarius was dead...the emotion he he expressed without saying anything was really well done...you could see from that moment that he knew his old life was behind him...

[@dawnflasch608]

Just love Alaa! His portrayal of Zee is such a wonderful addition to the disciples. His beautiful soul shines through in his performance. And his creativity with other work is off the charts! ❤️🙌🏻😊

[@gusefalito6137]

Alaa is amazing stunt performer and even better actor! Zee is my favorite disciple in part because of the way Alaa carries himself when he plays him

[@mariawells8026]

Beautiful interview with a beautiful soul. What I've noticed with your interviews Dallas, is that your actors are all so humble, gracious and loving. They are genuine, not fake and full of self like Hollywood types. It's helped to make The Chosen a success!

[@violarobinson2332]

I agree with everyone who said he is a beautiful soul.

[@cranesinthesky1240]

Alaa's first appearance is one of my favourite episodes and cemented him as one of my favourite characters! I love how protective and strong he is.

[@kimbrearobinson41]

Love Alaa! He plays Zee so great! A fierce warrior with a soft heart! Intensely loyal and very protective!

[@marciaolson4878]

Love Simon the Zealot! What a great and sensitive actor! Again, perfect casting!❤❤❤

[@annodomini313]

One of my favorites!! The scene pairing Simon the Z & Matthew is absolute gold. Love it.

[@eviepj1219]

This interview is so great! Love how Alaa refers to Paras as precious. Love abounds with The Chosen!! Love you all! ❤🌻

[@onenight0666]

This man just seems like a wonderful human. Love him on The Chosen too.

[@jeannettemuhanji966]

I delighted that he is being interviewed. I d love to see more of him.

[@mistyviolet3825]

GOD BLESS YOU ALAA SAFI!!!🙏🏻🙏🏻😇🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@vanessamedeiros1489]

I´m so glad you did this interview with Alaa, he´s a great Z, I knew he was special and now we know why ! God bless you Dallas for putting together this incredible cast and bring Jesus closer to us .

[@karenhensley3069]

So nice to learn about Alaa! Apparently I saw him in Dr. Strange and didn’t know it. lol He is so talented, and I love him as Zee! He also seems like such a genuine and kind person! Aussi, je ne savais pas qu’il a grandi en France. J’aime The Chosen France parce-ce que je peut practiquer mon francais!! Felicitations à Alaa!! ❤❤👏👏

[@YTBMac]

Alaa je suis de Paris aussi! C’est super qu’un français d’origine marocaine soit dans the Chosen 🎉

[@jazshas]

Alaa as "Z" is one of my faves. There was something about that scene when he bowed on his knees, ready to give his life for Christ for deserting the zealots. Profound!

[@CrystallineSoll]

Totally agree! Great scene!

[@lindakalaitzis7648]

How is it that The Chosen has attracted such beautiful, humble people to act in the series? 🤔 Loved Alaa from the start, then he mellows into acknowledging his rough past, leaving it behind to follow Jesus. ❤ Another great actor!!

[@dianemcgrath334]

I can’t get enough of the background of the entire production of this blessed team. Bless Dallas for showing the world more about our Savior.

[@jonathanctay7422]

First time Simon Z came onto the scene I was like: Oh yeah, Assassin's Creed: Judea! Joking, of course. But in all seriousness, it's such an awesome interpretation of Simon the Zealot, about whom we don't really read about from primary sources. Alaa brought him to life on the screen with such realism and passion. I can't believe he hasn't been a long time character actor as much as he's been a stuntman.

[@lupebanda5827]

Thank you Simon the zealot, you bring a special uniqueness to the Chosen. I see in you ‘transparency, truth, goodness, love and commitment to protect Jesus. Thank you Dallas for answering His call and for allowing Jesus to teach you humbly as we see you grow in Him. Surely, the Spirit of the Lord is guiding all this fenomenal series.

[@LifeChatwithKarima]

This show is absolutely fantastic!! What a blessing to share Jesus's hope all over the world. Oh my goodness, how cool! I am from Morocco and grew up in France. And I remember watching the Chosen and watching Alaa acting and thinking he sure does look like a Moroccan guy. Somehow I always seem to recognize Moroccan people when I see them. But I was thinking that can't be because this is a Christian show. I have been in the US over 30 years and gave my life to Jesus 21 years ago and have never been the same. I pray that he finds the truths through this series and that he gets to share it with the Moroccan people. ❤❤❤❤

[@happyaspiemom]

Amen Karima what a beautiful testimony ! God bless you 💙💙

[@LifeChatwithKarima]

@Happyaspiemom Thank you so much for your kind words ❤️

[@segiaalapati1378]

What a gem of an actor Alaa is. He os a humble guy and looks out for others and treats them with humility as he did Para. God bless you and so as THE CHOSEN. PEACE from New Zealand

[@cindyhuffaker6357]

Hes one of my favorites! Humble and deliberately protective.

[@esheppard971]

My mind is blown because he looks like the twin of my brother-in-law who is also Moroccan. Same nose, same mouth, same eyes, face shape except my brother-in-law has a darker complexion. Anyway, he's a talented actor on a great show. 👏

[@laurahyatt1909]

Alana is an amazing human. I admire him greatly.

[@dharinidemel5367]

Simon Z has such a kind open face. So good looking too. Good to watch this interview and learn about his career. I loved the bit where Z explains why he gave the floor to Mathew in the two by two ministry.

[@jackieberg504]

Such a calming soul ♥️

[@jenniferluchkow6968]

What a wonderful feeling to see these actors realize the affect their work is having on people. I see the happiness and fulfillment this project is having on them as well as their viewers. Truly God’s hand is in this.

[@judywetterman1314]

Great actor, Simon, the Zealot❤

[@irenawojtowicz5898]

Having watched all episodes of the Chosen, episode 4 of Season 2 where Jesse gets healed and Simon the Zealot is introduced still remains my absolute favourite! ❤❤❤❤❤

[@V67Snick]

I have a handful of "unexpected" favorites (tbh I didn't know what I expected). Simon Z heads the list! (Followed closely by Rabbi Yussef, Barnaby, Shula and Jairus) He can convey as much in a "one-shot" glance that others require a couple of lines for. Thank you Alaa hope we get to see more of you! I know everyone works as a team (and must do so for any effort to succeed). I am just as sure everyone else has their favorites ;)

[@OwenMcKenna]

Wonderful observation. I'd add Zebedee to that list, and of course Mary, the Mother of Christ! And then there are the cures, too many to list, all beautifully portrayed. Great stuff.

[@Ryanjoned163]

Greatest man in history,he had no servants yet they called him master,he had no degree yet they called him teacher,he had no medicines yet they called him healer,he had no washing line yet he hung on a cross,he had no military yet kings feared him,he had no military battles yet he conquered the world he committed no sin yet they crucified him they buried him in a tomb yet he lives today hes the only person to say goodbyes to death and the grave but he lives forever his name is king Jesus and every tongue will confess Jesus Christ is Lord ❤☝️👈🔥❤☝️👈🔥❤☝️👈🔥

[@Jesus.SaVeS77]

Gdm. Bro. @ Ryan, Thnx I've read & 👂🏾alol those Truths about JESUS, Our Lord n Personal Saviour, BF4L Best True friend, teacher, etc

[@akatheheretic3014]

@Ryan Joned "and EVERY Knee shall bow . . . " 🧎 🤗

[@samkj1953]

yeah we get it, no need to cut and paste it in every video

[@akatheheretic3014]

@@samkj1953 🤗 🤗 🤗

[@Ryanjoned163]

@@samkj1953 ouch

[@insightstar]

My favorite!!!! ❤ The scene of Jesus throw his sacred knife into the water is one of the most poignant moment in the series as a spiritual warrior.

[@mmeyerdc]

What a wonderful human being.

[@cann8035]

The sweetness that emanates from this man just draws you in.

[@martaupward5992]

I absolutely love Alaa’s work. He has become one of my favorite’s to watch.

[@59Alaskan]

He has such a serene looking face.. I love him..

[@valmonahan7884]

Oh man, Indiana Jones!! I’m so excited! I love that ❤

[@terridieringer7511]

I love Zee! So masculine but gentle as well. Very dedicated to Jesus!

[@yourfriendlyyoutuber]

Simon the Zealot (and matthew) is my favorite character and the 2 part episodes when they introduced his character (season 2, episode 4-5) I love how tough he looks on the outside but soft and obedient to Jesus on the inside 😭🤍

[@chosenforadivinepurpose5422]

Awesome, I love Alaa's peaceful disposition 😊

[@fiberbeads]

I've loved the Chosen all along. Recently, when I say my rosary, I ask for one hate-filled heart to tip towards mercy and goodness. Every day I ask; one soul for one prayer. Then one day I was watching the Chosen and realized Simon embodies exactly what I have been asking for in prayer (from Zealot to Apostle). Doing research, I realize Simon the Zealot is the most obscure of the 12 apostles. I'm amazed to realize that this show gives purchase to my prayers and a possible way to elevate Simon from obscurity aside from the miracle of his redemption by our Lord. The world needs redemption. Pray! All this to say, Simon has become one of my favorite characters in the series. Thank you!

[@melaniewade4117]

Alaa, you are so perfect for the role of Simon Z. I have loved watching your role evolve. Your stunts and martial arts are impeccable. It's great that Dallas found someone of your skill and caliber for total authenticity. I will also say that, though you were the true Zealot, you still had such a sweetness in your face and expressions and it's wonderful to see that coming out, especially in the scene where your fellow Zealots stalked you, intent on killing you, and you surrendered all because of your now zealous devotion to Jesus. Watching you transform has been beautiful. I so appreciate the depth of character that you bring to this role. Not many could pull it off so remarkably. Thank you and God bless you as you continue your role in The Chosen as well as your other acting endeavors.

[@PromiseOFADONAI]

Father GOD❤️ Bless Alaa Sari and His humble soul. I believe You have Helped him achieve much in His life in the face of the enemy and whatever things he has had to battle & that is so beautiful to me, YOU’RE AWESOME CREATOR OF HEAVENS AND EARTH 💕

[@mchristr]

Shimon Zelotes may be my favorite character. Alaa's portrayal strikes just the right balance between physicality and a tender dedication to Christ.

[@heathervaillancourt3883]

He is such a great guy it seems like. Alaa ur good at what u do and this show is that much more of a blessing with ur character and everyone else as well!!!

[@ianashevchenko6579]

My favorite character at The Chosen! ❤ ❤❤

[@melvindias1249]

Good job Dallas for finding this Gem for God's purpose.

[@ellybean5868]

Very talented and seems to be a very gentle soul, with or without his dagger lol

[@junglemom1055]

My husband is from France so excited The Chosen is there!

[@christianwritings4907]

Ahh so refreshing! I like Simon the zealot even more knowing he’s from my part of the world now too 🇫🇷 🇮🇹🤯

[@pattysouza2954]

I'm watching the Chosen right now.

[@PamilyangPinoy-TV]

Brother Alaa! Continue to keep your feet on the ground.. so humble person.. one of my favourite actor in The Chosen 😎💪🏼

[@SuuRibeiro]

Alaa is great in his performance as Simon Z! 🥰

[@Hammer4999]

The Chosen is so well done that I tend to forget that these are actors playing parts in the greatest story ever told, and not the actual people living the story.

[@ThepianistinUSA]

Fabulous Simon Z and his skills and emotions!

[@alvinaawong357]

Aloha from Hawaii 🌺🤗🌹🕊️🔥🌈 Thank you Dallas for bringing Alaa on board. Especially love how each disciple is highlighted in certain episodes. The impact is powerful and humbling as well. 👏

[@Jenichosenfan7]

My favourite scene with Simon zee is when he sees his brother for the first time and then later gives up his past life to follow Christ!! ❤

[@Jenichosenfan7]

I share your passions of wanting to be a pilot!!

[@beaulincoln]

Simon the Zealot is one of my favorite characters in The Chosen.

[@clarelefort7250]

LUV LUV LUV This Character!!👌💞Zee, You Come With Such Heart Peace, STRENGTH in Character & Physique and this interview just brought soo much more to life in Who YOU ARE!! Ohhh, I look forward to seeing your Character develop!! ✨️👌✨️💝

[@johanne577]

love Zee’s face when Jesus said, “no, not that kind of rescue, Zee.” 😂 he was drum-rolling 🥁

[@cleofetorrijos4442]

Been waiting for this ! I just love Zee and how he portrays his character as the zealot... but hat's off to Dallas for a great job in directing those good actors! Dallas is the man ! God bless you all...🙏

[@skipmcdonald6527]

You are great Alaa! Thank you!!

[@annagoulbourn5563]

I loved his scene with Judas and how he demonstrates to Judas about washing his tunic in S4. There was so Much meaning into that conversation. It was amazing. 👏👏👏

[@cathynewquist4979]

Humble ❤

[@woodwork_music]

We love you Alaa!!!!! ❤❤❤

[@mrstnfmly]

Love this guy he’ll do great things

[@latterdaypioneer6839]

Simon Z is my favorite character on the Chosen. Great job Alaa!

[@notafeministconservative5316]

Love this show! The scenes in S3E6 with Zee were so good. Wrestling with our past, so relatable no matter the exact circumstances.

[@beve83]

I can't believe that scene with Jesse was his first scene for the show!! It is one of my favorites and one I think of often. Z you're such an important part of the show!

[@jh2924]

Amazing actor and stunt man - so talented!!!!

[@sallycormier1383]

Simon Z is my all time favorite! It’s really interesting to see what could have been that little known disciple’s back story. All the actors are doing such an amazing job!!❤

[@laurelberg3157]

We love you character created in Simon Z, thank you!

[@jo.santos]

What an amazing actor! And also very humble ✨

[@sieglindetoews8529]

My favorite character! Thanks for the interview.

[@StompMom5]

This dude is the best!! Amazing acting and marvelous character.

[@luisdavidgraterol6615]

He is my favorite! His "katas" are awesome!

[@sylviehardy6543]

What a sweetheart! So humble and precious.

[@samipan3410]

Dallas ,a great mentor to these budding actors.

[@machitect]

I love Alaa he is one of my favorites in the show!

[@mariemcclure151]

Alaa is a great actor. Great interview

[@happyaspiemom]

Très fière d' Alaa ! Il représente bien la France et son personnage d'ancien Zélote est bouleversant . Il rentre en raisonnance avec le terrorisme actuel dans l'islam . Merci Dallas de nous faire connaître l'histoire de Simon le Zélote et de nous faire connaître cette belle personne qu 'est Alaa Safi . 🙏🙏💙💙

[@NathanRBradfordMusic]

Two awesome guys here doing great work!

[@dannyfox4156]

I thought it worked really well when Matthew was doing the prayer! It was like he got it! He realized the work, the anointing was just flowing and he felt it!!

[@stampinggrannieboyd9170]

Perfect actor for the part- Alaa has so much energy and expressions. I enjoy each moment with him.

[@joelleboutros7142]

He's a beautiful man. I really love him and he's one of my favorites characters.