A biblical epic created by Alabama native Jon Erwin has captured global attention, leading to a second-season renewal on Prime Video. The series, House of David, which dramatizes the life of King David, has become one of the top ten streaming debuts in the U.S. this year, reaching an impressive 22 million viewers in just 17 days.
For Erwin, a Birmingham-born filmmaker, the success of House of David is a long-awaited dream come true. The series is based on the very first script he ever wrote, and now, through a partnership with Amazon MGM Studios, it has found a global platform, streaming in over 240 countries.
“To tell this story on Prime Video—it’s the first global release of my career,” Erwin said in a recent interview.
The eight-episode first season, which premiered on February 27, 2024, follows the dramatic rise of David, the young shepherd anointed as king while the reigning monarch, King Saul, spirals into self-destruction. The season builds up to David’s legendary battle with Goliath, with the finale set to drop on April 3, 2024.
Following its breakout success, Amazon announced this week that Season 2 is officially in the works. The next chapter will explore David’s rise to the throne, as he faces palace politics, family rivalries, and the pressures of leadership.
“There’s such an appetite for this type of content,” said Erwin, who has long been dedicated to faith-based storytelling.
Jon Erwin is no stranger to faith-based entertainment. Alongside his brother Andrew, he co-founded Kingdom Story Company, which has produced hit Christian films, including Jesus Revolution (2023), starring Kelsey Grammer. The Erwins have made it their mission to bring faith-centered narratives to mainstream audiences, and House of David is the latest success in that journey.
Erwin’s Alabama roots have played a key role in his storytelling. He credits his upbringing with shaping his passion for stories of faith, perseverance, and redemption.
The series stars Michael Iskander as David, with a cast that includes Ali Suliman as King Saul, Ayelet Zurer as Queen Ahinoam, Stephen Lang as the prophet Samuel, and many more.
Their performances have helped transform this ancient story into a gripping, cinematic experience that resonates with modern audiences.
House of David is part of a growing trend of faith-based entertainment gaining mainstream traction. Amazon MGM Studios has expressed excitement about expanding its faith-oriented content, with head of television Vernon Sanders saying,
“Jon Erwin and Jon Gunn’s compelling creative vision has solidified our belief in the series, and we are excited to deliver more of the story to our customers.”
For Erwin, the journey is just beginning. His original script outlines three seasons, but co-star Ayelet Zurer believes the story has the potential to run for five or even seven seasons.
As House of David continues to reach audiences worldwide, it serves as another testament to Alabama’s influence in faith-based filmmaking.
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
