Middle Eastern Actors Making Their Mark in Hollywood

The world of Hollywood has long been a melting pot of diverse talents from across the globe. In recent years, Middle Eastern actors have made significant inroads into the industry, bringing rich cultural narratives and powerful performances to the big screen.

Here, we spotlight six such actors who have made their presence felt in Hollywood.

Amr Waked

Amr Waked, an Egyptian actor, is known for his versatility and powerful screen presence. He gained international fame with his role in the science fiction film “Lucy” (2014), where he starred alongside Scarlett Johansson.

Waked played the role of a French policeman named Pierre Del Rio, who becomes an ally to Johansson’s character. His other notable Hollywood appearances include roles in “Syriana” (2005), a political thriller starring George Clooney, and “Geostorm” (2017), where he played the part of Ray Dussette.

Omar Sharif

A true legend of cinema, Omar Sharif was one of the first Middle Eastern actors to achieve global fame.

Born in Egypt, Sharif’s breakthrough role came in “Lawrence of Arabia” (1962), where his portrayal of Sherif Ali earned him an Academy Award nomination. He continued to shine in Hollywood with unforgettable performances in “Doctor Zhivago” (1965) and “Funny Girl” (1968), starring alongside Barbra Streisand.

Sharif’s charisma and talent left a lasting impact on both the film industry and audiences worldwide.

Khaled Abol Naga

Khaled Abol Naga, a notable Egyptian actor renowned in Middle Eastern cinema, has also made strides in Hollywood. He starred as Gabe Hassan in the film “Civic Duty” (2006), navigating themes of post-9/11 suspicion.

Beyond his film roles, Naga is recognized for promoting independent Middle Eastern cinema and has appeared in Egyptian films of international acclaim. 

He also broadened his global footprint by joining the cast of the historical drama series “Vikings,” portraying Emir Ziyadat Allah, the ruler of Ifriqiya (modern-day Tunisia) in the 9th century. His character contributes to the series’ exploration of diverse cultural encounters, enriching its storyline.

Khaled El Nabawy

Khaled El Nabawy, an acclaimed Egyptian actor, has made notable contributions to Hollywood. He starred in the film “Kingdom of Heaven” (2005), directed by Ridley Scott, where he played the role of Imam, a character who supports the main protagonist, Balian, played by Orlando Bloom.

El Nabawy’s performance was well-received, and he has continued to build a strong acting career both in Egypt and internationally.

May Calamawy

May Calamawy is a rising star of Egyptian and Palestinian descent who has made a significant impact in Hollywood. She is best known for her role as Dena Hassan in the Hulu series “Ramy,” which explores the life of a first-generation Egyptian-American. Calamawy’s performance has been praised for its depth and authenticity.

She also gained attention for her role in the Marvel series “Moon Knight” (2022), where she played Layla El-Faouly, showcasing her versatility and ability to tackle complex characters.

Ameer El-Masry

Amir El-Masry, an Egyptian-British actor, is gaining recognition in Hollywood for his versatility. He was acclaimed for portraying Yousef in “The Night Manager” (2016) and starred in “Limbo” (2020) as Omar, a Syrian refugee in Scotland. His ability to bring depth and empathy to roles highlights his rising prominence in international cinema.

El-Masry also appeared in “Star Wars: Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker” (2019) and starred in “Lost in London” (2017), a groundbreaking film shot and broadcast live in a single take, showcasing his versatility in challenging formats. These roles underscore his growing impact and versatility in the industry.

These actors have not only brought Middle Eastern representation to Hollywood but have also enriched the industry with their unique talents and perspectives.

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