ENTERTAINMENT
MY BIG FALAFEL
EGYPTIAN WEDDING
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW WITH
STEVE SHERMETT
In this interview, we get a behind-the-scenes look at the craft of actor Steve Shermett.
You’ll recognize Steve from his powerful work as Rabbi Josiah in the hit series The Chosen or his appearance in NBC’s Mr. Mayor, but his career goes far beyond the screen.
Whether he’s hosting, performing, or coaching the next generation of talent Steve brings a rare blend of grounded intensity and genuine warmth to every project. A former minister with a wealth of life experience and a deep love for storytelling, Steve approaches each role with an authenticity that is hard to come by. In this interview we discuss his latest project, his evolving approach to character work, and the lessons he’s carrying forward.
THE INTERVIEW
Jen Gault: Steve, you’ve embraced many different roles throughout your acting journey. Did you have to learn Egyptian Arabic for this role? And how do you transform who you are into the character that’s in the script?
Steve Shermett: I learned a generic Middle Eastern accent for my work in the TV series The Chosen. An Egyptian English accent is a bit different, so I tweaked it to sound like an Egyptian American. The film is in English, but my character speaks with an Egyptian accent.
Jen Gault: What first attracted you to My Big Falafel Egyptian Wedding? What was it about the story or the script that drew you in?
Steve Shermett: It’s a warm story based on real events, but it’s also funny and interesting.
Jen Gault: You play the starring role of Zoser, the father. What, personally, could you relate to as a father in this story?
Steve Shermett: Zoser has a daughter he deeply loves. He’s concerned that she marries a good man and that she’ll be financially stable and happy in her life. Every dad wants this for his daughter, and I’m a dad of a daughter as well. It fits beautifully.
“Farida loves and respects her dad, and he adores her. She is, however, an independent woman who will pursue her dreams even if her father is reluctant to support her.”
Jen Gault: What did you love about Zoser and Farida’s relationship?
Steve Shermett: They are so comfortable with one another. They accept each other as they are eccentricities, flaws, and all. I can’t wait for you to see them. Nora Armani is hilarious and believable in her role as Zoser’s wife.
Jen Gault: How did being a father yourself factor into the tension and the push-and-pull between your character and his daughter? Did being a father bring something personal to the role that you didn’t expect?
Steve Shermett: All actors draw from our life experiences. But I wouldn’t say there was a specific dynamic that stood out. What it did do, though, is allow me to form a relationship with the amazing actress Caroline Marie. I felt somewhat like a father to her on set (or perhaps an uncle). Caroline knows she can come to me with her prayer requests and that I’m just a text away.
Jen Gault: Without giving too much away, was there a moment between Zoser and Farida where, as a father, it wasn’t just about the words? Maybe there was something happening underneath the dialogue that connected with your heart personally?
Steve Shermett: Throughout the film, the father-daughter dynamic is in play. The story was written in such a way as to give the father-daughter dynamic several layers. Farida loves and respects her dad, and he adores her. She is, however, an independent woman who will pursue her dreams even if her father is reluctant to support her.
Jen Gault: Were there any impromptu moments where you thought, “You know what? Zoser needs to say this,” and you just felt like that was something the character needed to express in that moment?
Steve Shermett: Yes! And director Peter Takla was open to suggestions and “playing” with the role. Although there were several moments like this, keep an eye out for “socks” and “flip-flops.” We can talk more after the film is out. No spoilers.
Jen Gault: If Zoser taught you anything about being a father, what would that be? And how do you hope that lesson might encourage other fathers?
Steve Shermett: Zoser showed me how stubborn even a loving father can be. It’s hard for a father to release the role of authority, example, and protector of his children as they grow. Other dads? I would suggest you try to keep pace with your children’s growth as they age and mature, and loosen the reins a bit.
Jen Gault: What was the best part of working with Peter? How did he guide you through the culture and help you understand the Egyptian side of the story?
Steve Shermett: Peter has a great sense of humor and loves seeing a film come to life on set. He’s also very approachable and available. He was happy to answer any questions I had and to discuss Zoser and Egyptian culture. During our table reads and on set, he was a great source of information and guidance.
“Zoser showed me how stubborn even a loving father can be.”
Jen Gault: Was there anything you learned about Egyptian culture while making this movie that surprised you or stayed with you?
Steve Shermett: So much! I loved these people and their culture. It was an amazing experience to be with them. It may sound silly, but I’ve been drinking Egyptian-style Turkish coffee since I was introduced to it on set. I never liked coffee before that. I also learned a lot about their faith traditions, history, and the connection they share. I’ve made several friends who I’m still in touch with!
Jen Gault: We know food is such a huge part of Egyptian culture. Were there any desserts you tasted that made you think, “There’s nothing like this”?
Steve Shermett: Nope… just the coffee!
Jen Gault: Were there any off-camera moments with the cast and crew that you know are going to stay with you for a long time?
“I was exhausted and ready to be done, but I was also sad to see everyone leaving the set…”
Steve Shermett: Oh yeah! There was a time between scenes when a couple of the guys picked up some Egyptian drums and started playing. The women started dancing, and they were having a blast. It was an instant Egyptian party. It was awesome.
Jen Gault: When you filmed that final scene and everything was over, how did you feel? Was it emotional for you? Did you feel a sense of pride, relief, or maybe a little bit of everything?
Steve Shermett: We spent a day in temperatures that were about 100 degrees. I was exhausted and ready to be done, but I was also sad to see everyone leaving the set, knowing we wouldn’t be together again. I’m hoping we’ll get to connect at a premiere or two.
Jen Gault: And finally, what is the number one reason you think people should go see My Big Falafel Egyptian Wedding?
Steve Shermett: It’s good, clean, family fun with a message based on a true story. People will see the struggles that families have when cultures collide and hilarity ensues.
My Big Falafel Egyptian Wedding Read Director Peter Takla’s Interview Here…
