From ‘Superhero Conditioning’ to the ‘Most Humble Version of a Person’—‘The Chosen’ Star Gives a Glimpse Into Simon the Zealot

Jesus tells Simon Z, “I have a better sword.”

“That powerlessness—which doesn’t mean weakness—is starting to appear and to be a thing, which grows even stronger after,” said Safi.

Season 5 of “The Chosen” comes to theaters, in three parts, beginning March 28. The next two parts release on April 4 and 11, respectively.

Fans commented on Safi’s post on Facebook, promoting the next season. Many have already purchased tickets and are awaiting the release of the new content centering on Holy Week, the Cleansing of the Temple, Judas’ betrayal, and the Last Supper.

“Can’t wait to see y’all on the big screen again!” said one fan.

Alaa Safi Draws From His Own Martial Arts Training

At age 18, Safi earned the world champion title in Tae Kwon Do. As an action actor, he teamed up with Jacki Chan in “Chinese Zodiac” (2012). He also appeared in “Doctor Strange” (2016) and “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” (2023).

Safi admitted that he was bullied as a young child. His older brother played soccer, so he thought of following in his brother’s footsteps. Instead, Safi’s father suggested martial arts.

“It clicked for me,” said Safi. “This is actually what I need.”

After years of training and competitions, Safi earned a world champion title in Tae Kwon Do when he was 18 years old. But something was amiss during this event that should have been “great.”

“My opponent was standing next to me on the podium, and he had a black eye,” recalled Safi. “I’m like, ‘We’re celebrating this?’ This doesn’t make sense. I apologized to him, and I quit after that.”

Safi continues to act, direct, and produce films, including the upcoming “Icaros.” The project was inspired by Safi’s own struggle with tic disorder. Safi is an active member of the #TouretteSyndrome and #TicDisorder communities.