From Galilee To The IDF: 5 Shocking Details About Shahar Isaac's Military Service And Career

The actor who brings the fiery, passionate Simon Peter to life in The Chosen, Shahar Isaac, has a real-life background that is just as compelling and intense as his on-screen persona. As of December 2025, the most striking and current detail of his life is not a new acting role, but his commitment to his home country, Israel, which recently included an unexpected call-up to active reserve duty.

Isaac's story is a unique blend of Hollywood ambition and national duty, reflecting his dual Israeli-American identity. His mandatory service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) was only the beginning; his most recent call-up saw him temporarily trade his biblical robes for military fatigues, providing a rare and powerful glimpse into the personal sacrifices of a globally recognized star.

Shahar Isaac: Full Biography and Profile

Shahar Isaac is an Israeli-American actor, musician, and photographer who has garnered international fame for his compelling portrayal of Simon Peter in the hit series The Chosen. His journey from the Middle East to a prominent acting career in the United States is a testament to his diverse talents and unique background.

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• Full Name: Shahar Isaac
• Date of Birth: February 1993
• Place of Birth: Haifa, Israel
• Nationality: Israeli-American
• Ethnicity: Yemenite Jewish
• Education: Rutgers University, Mason Gross School of the Arts (B.F.A. in Acting)
• Known For: Portraying the disciple Simon Peter in the historical drama series The Chosen.
• Other Notable Credits: Appearances in television shows such as The Good Fight, Madam Secretary, and Price for Freedom.
• Other Skills: Professional photographer and musician.
• Current Status: Continues to star in The Chosen while actively advocating for issues related to his home country.

The Mandatory Service: Shahar Isaac's IDF Background

Like all eligible Israeli citizens, Shahar Isaac completed mandatory military service in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) before embarking on his professional acting career. This foundational experience is a common thread that connects many young Israelis and shapes their worldview, including those who later move into the arts and entertainment.

A Duty of Citizenship

In Israel, military service is compulsory for most citizens over the age of 18, a requirement that applies to both men and women. Isaac fulfilled this obligation, which instilled in him discipline, resilience, and a deep connection to his country.

This period of service is a stark contrast to the world of acting, requiring a complete commitment to national security. While specific details about his unit, rank, or duration of his initial mandatory service are not widely publicized—a common practice for privacy—the fact of his service is well-established and an integral part of his identity as an Israeli-American.

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From Israel to Rutgers University

Following his mandatory service, Isaac made the pivotal decision to pursue his passion for acting. He relocated to the United States to further his education, enrolling in the prestigious Rutgers University's Mason Gross School of the Arts.

This transition highlights the duality of his life: a disciplined military background followed by a rigorous artistic education. The discipline gained from the IDF likely contributed to his focused approach to his craft, which eventually led to his breakout role as Simon Peter.

The Unexpected Call: Trading Sandals for Combat Boots

The most recent and compelling chapter of Shahar Isaac's military history occurred in late 2023, when he was called up for active reserve duty with the IDF. This event garnered significant media attention because of his global recognition from The Chosen.

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Reserve Duty Amidst Conflict

In Israel, reserve duty is a recurring obligation for those who have completed their mandatory service. Following the October 7, 2023, attacks, the IDF initiated a massive mobilization of reservists, and Isaac, like thousands of other Israeli citizens, answered the call.

The image of the actor known for playing a first-century fisherman suddenly "trading his sandals for military boots" resonated deeply with fans and media worldwide. This unexpected return to service provided a powerful, real-world connection between the actor's life and the intense, high-stakes drama he portrays on screen.

A Special Permit and Return to Filming

Isaac's commitment to his reserve duty was unwavering, but his role on The Chosen also required his presence. Given the global scale and production schedule of the series, he was eventually granted a special permit to return to the United States to resume filming.

This temporary leave from active duty allowed production to continue while acknowledging his service. Upon his return to the U.S., Isaac used his platform to speak out about the ongoing situation, particularly advocating for the return of the remaining hostages.

The Impact of Military Service on Shahar Isaac's Artistry

The experiences gained from his time in the IDF and his recent reserve duty undoubtedly feed into Shahar Isaac's acting, particularly his portrayal of Simon Peter.

Infusing Simon Peter with Real-World Intensity

Simon Peter is depicted as a man of action, intense loyalty, and raw emotion—a fisherman who is quick to anger but fiercely devoted. The discipline, resilience, and sense of purpose inherent in military service can be seen as grounding elements in Isaac's performance. The ability to handle high-pressure situations and embody a sense of duty translates well into the role of a leader among the disciples.

Isaac’s dual life—the artist and the soldier—gives his portrayal a unique authenticity. When he speaks of courage, loyalty, and sacrifice, he does so from a place of personal experience, lending a profound depth to the character that audiences connect with globally. His background as an Israeli-American actor with a military past makes him a uniquely qualified figure to bridge the gap between historical drama and contemporary relevance.

A Voice for Advocacy

Since returning from his most recent reserve duty, Shahar Isaac has leveraged his visibility to raise awareness and demand action on behalf of the hostages. This advocacy demonstrates how his military service has shaped his current role not just as an actor, but as a public figure with a strong, personal connection to a global crisis.

His willingness to publicly discuss his service and his country's challenges has cemented his status as a figure of topical authority. It also highlights the LSI keywords of his public life: *Israeli-American*, *IDF veteran*, and *advocate*, all intertwined with his primary role as an actor in *The Chosen*.