To close out the year, the Hope For The Warriors Podcast welcomed actor, stunt performer, and passionate veteran advocate Jaylen Moore, a guest who brings as much heart to real life as he does to every role on screen.
Jaylen, known for projects like Six and Homeland, joined host Kate Dudley for a conversation about his career, his upbringing as a military-connected kid, and why Hope For The Warriors feels like “home.”
From the moment the meeting began, his humor and warmth set the tone. “I’m happy to be here,” he said while showcasing a HOPE shirt and water bottle. “Anything for you guys, I love what you stand for and what you do.”
Jaylen’s connection to the military community runs deep. His late grandfather-in-law was in the Navy as one of the first Frogmen, his cousin, Kawa Mawlayee was in the military for over 20 years, and his father served briefly while he lived in Afghanistan. “I was always taught growing up, just to appreciate everything that the men and women do that serve for us,” he said.
That foundation of respect and service eventually shaped the types of roles he gravitated toward on screen and the causes he supports off camera.
Speaking of “on screen,” Jaylen’s career has been full of unexpected turns and game-changing moments. After a recurring role on Homeland, he landed a breakout part on Six, making television history as the first Afghan Muslim Navy SEAL. The funny part is, the character he auditioned for was slated to die about four episodes in. Jaylen, didn’t get that role, but he was shocked to hear what the show’s creator Bill Broyles wanted him for instead. “We needed one more SEAL…we want the character to be Afghan American,” Bill shared with Jaylen’s agent. Though the show only ran two seasons, he calls it “a life-changing experience…probably the most pivotal point” of his career. Recently, he spent five weeks in Atlanta producing and acting alongside Mel Gibson in Hunting Season, describing the experience as surreal: “I was just pinching myself, like internally…I was soaking this in.”
In November, he visited New York City for a birthday trip. Again, the unexpected happened, and he found himself “racing” through Times Square for a last-minute Zoom audition that landed him a national commercial. Looking ahead, he’s excited to film The Best Pancakes with Nicholas Cage and Justin Long, all while cherishing life with his three young children.
Jaylen’s family is just one of the many reasons why he joined Hope For The Warriors at the annual Celebrity Invitational in 2023. He immediately felt a connection. “It’s just a great experience, honestly. And it’s like I get to learn about other people who have done wonderful things for this country. I’m learning how to be involved with HOPE and set the bar higher.”
Jaylen shared how deeply he’s been moved by HOPE’s support for veterans, service members, and military families, especially those navigating transition, injuries, or the lasting impact of war. “What you all do is beautiful. You’re helping people through some of the hardest moments of their lives. I’m just grateful to be part of it.”
Jaylen says parenthood has deepened his commitment to supporting military families and children in need. “It’s no longer just about me…it’s now clear I’m doing this for a bigger cause, leaving behind a legacy for my children,” he shared. Seeing the challenges veteran families face, particularly around food insecurity or holiday stress, drives his advocacy: “When I hear about what these families are going through…it makes me angry. No child should be suffering.” Jaylen emphasizes that giving back is generational, noting the importance of setting an example for his kids and involving them in acts of service. He also encourages support for organizations like Hope For The Warriors especially during the holidays, when their Fueling Families initiative has distributed thousands of boxes of food and gift cards, alleviating pressure for families and creating hope during a difficult season. Reflecting on the community, he adds, “You’re not alone. You’re definitely not forgotten…there’s much gratitude out there for what you do.”
Listen to the Full Conversation
Don’t miss the laughter, the powerful stories, and the heartfelt moments that didn’t make it into this recap.
🎧 Listen to the full episode of the Hope For The Warriors Podcast featuring Jaylen Moore.
Support Military Families This Season
If Jaylen’s words inspired you, consider making an end-of-year gift to support the military families HOPE serves every day.
❤️ Give today at hopeforthewarriors.org
