Paras Patel Reflects on His Career and Role in The Chosen

Photo credit: Ryan West

Known for his role as Matthew in the global hit series The Chosen, Paras Patel opens up about his path as an actor, the evolution of his career, and what it’s been like working on such a unique project. In this interview, he shares insights on the impact of the show and his vision for what’s next.

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Could you introduce yourself for those who might not know you?

I'm Paras (Par-us). I am a proud South Asian actor trying to make my way in the industry to showcase my versatility as an artist. I am currently most known for my neurodivergent portrayal of the disciple Matthew on the Amazon Prime television series, The Chosen. In my spare time I love to cook, hike, travel, and spend time with friends, old and new.

Looking back at your debut in Teen Spirit, what drew you to acting in the first place?

I like to think I discovered acting at 5 years old, when I was the clown in my kindergarten play and announced to the audience “Now let's get on with the show!” It was my first time on stage and I remember feeling the energy from everyone's applause and laughter. After that I participated in various cultural community dances and plays and really grew to love performing. I love being able to get into a character's shoes and exploring and seeing the world through their lens. It is all very fascinating to me. I knew this was what I wanted to do, but because a career in entertainment can be so volatile, I decided to pursue a career in finance and finish my education until I eventually realized that the only thing I am meant to do was act.

How did it feel landing your first role, and what lessons did you take from that early experience? 

When I booked my first role, it was actually my first audition ever. I remember at the time thinking that I would always end up working consistently and thought it would be easy, however I did not work again for a full year after my first role. That taught me a lot about staying grounded, focused, and continuing to work hard at the craft. It is all about timing. My experience on my first project was not ideal, but I quickly realized I need to form a thicker skin and just focus on my role. Since I was completely new to the industry, with one audition under my belt, I soaked it all up and used my setbacks to work harder.

Can you share any early struggles you faced when trying to break into the industry?

I think at some point in the journey of an actor, or anyone for that matter, you will face adversity and you will struggle. It is important to reframe moments like those and think to yourself, that it is not your time yet or that this is just a test from the universe, and to keep pushing forward. As mentioned earlier, I struggled to find work for a year after booking my first audition. Even after that there were several periods where I didn't work, but it's important to stay hungry for it and keep going. We can sometimes be our worst critic, so it is important to always be your number one fan instead.

The Chosen has become a global phenomenon. Did you ever imagine the show would reach over 200 million viewers?

At this point, I just say, expect the unexpected when it comes to The Chosen, because it keeps blowing my mind. It's all surreal. To start this show 7 years ago as a crowdfunded web series 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. Every step of the way, the show has gone through its challenges and obstacles, and prevailed. 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!

How has playing Matthew changed your perspective, both as an actor and  as a person?

Stepping into the world of the disciple Matthew on The Chosen, who is portrayed as being neurodivergent on the show, has truly been a role of a lifetime. As an actor, I think it is really rare to be portraying a role that is impacting you and inspiring you on a personal level. The journey of Matthew on the show from who he was (unaccepted, not seen, disrespected, misunderstood) to where he is now (confident, self assured, strong) has been such a beautiful story to tell. Matthew is someone who leans into challenges and obstacles, because he knows at the end of the day, it will lead to growth. He always strives to be the best version of himself. Portraying Matthew has given me so many welcomed challenges and allowed me to grow personally. I've truly learned a lot about my own strengths and weaknesses walking in Matthew's shoes and it motivates me to keep working my hardest. It has also challenged me to push 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.

Do you remember a moment on set where you felt the emotional or spiritual impact of the series most deeply?

I would say I feel it all the time when I am in character. This show is so well written, that if you just sit and listen to the words, you will find yourself emotionally impacted, so I would say mostly every scene I am in moves me. A particular moment where I remember feeling very emotional was when I was filming the scene with the Beatitudes with my castmate Jonathan Roumie, who plays Jesus. I was holding back a lot of emotion internally, because my character is not one to show it all the time.

What can fans expect from your character’s journey in this new season? 

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.

Looking back at your journey, is there any advice you would give your younger self starting out in this industry?

I would start by giving myself a big hug, and tell him I am proud of him for not giving up. When starting out in this business, I think we can be very hard on ourselves and it is important to love yourself.

What has been the biggest turning point in your career so far?

I think the biggest turning point in my career so far has been getting cast on The Chosen. It has really changed my life. With its soaring popularity, I have also learned that the grass may not always be greener sometimes and other challenges present themselves, no matter what level you are at in your career. I do believe everything is a learning lesson whether it is good and bad. As much as you may struggle and doubt yourself at times, you have to go through those moments to be where you are at now. It's important to trust the process. I follow the mantra, “What is for you, will not pass you,” and I truly believe that. From my first role to now, I can truly see how far I have come. Most importantly, I have found my voice, my confidence, and I am not afraid to speak up for what I want. There is power in that. I want to encourage all aspiring artists to lean into that.

Are there any dream roles or genres you’d love to explore in the future?

I am really open to any kind of role or genre if the story and writing is compelling. I would love to be in a Marvel movie/series or explore more in the historical fantasy realm, like Game of Thrones or House of Dragons, though a part of me still hopes to play Aladdin one day haha.

What are your next goals/projects/dreams?

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. But honestly, while my time with The Chosen is coming to an end in a few years, I am truly focusing on just enjoying this moment. I tend to think about the future too much and forget about actually enjoying the present, so I am doing just that. I hope to continue the “Matthew legacy” going and spreading more awareness for the neurodivergent community as well as continuing to amplify South Asian voices through future projects.

Outside of acting, what brings you the most joy or peace?

I get the most joy from being around my family, friends, and my dog. I am all about making memories and living life to the fullest with the people closest to me in my life. I find myself most at peace being outside in the sun and near water! Having grown up in FL by the water and being a water sign, I have always loved being outdoors near the water. I love to go on a nice hike to recharge and reflect, but also love listening to the waves by the beach. So peaceful. I also find the most joy (though with a little guilt), in delicious meals. I am a big foodie!

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Journalist: D.R.

Courtesy of Conscious Hollywood PR

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