He’s the Dutch-Tunisian actor who made a bold move to Hollywood back in 2016—and honestly, it paid off big time. That year alone, he landed roles in major films like Collide, the epic Ben-Hur, and the dramatic The Promise. Talk about hitting the ground running! And his momentum didn’t slow down—by 2017, this actor was already making waves with standout appearances in The Mummy and the star-studded Murder on the Orient Express.
But wait, it gets even better. He later took on one of Disney’s most iconic villains when he was cast as Jafar in the live-action remake of Aladdin—a role that really showcased his range. Not long after, he starred in the gripping Netflix film The Angel, proving he could carry intense, complex characters with ease.
Before all the red carpets and blockbuster premieres, though, his journey started much more humbly. As a teenager, it was actually a girlfriend who secretly signed them both up for auditions for a Dutch production of the musical Chicago. That random act sparked something—he caught the acting bug and never looked back. He went on to graduate from the prestigious Theatre Academy Maastricht, a well-respected institution, and then honed his craft with the Amsterdam Theatre Group.
Born in The Hague, in Zuid-Holland, Netherlands, he grew up in a grounded household. His father worked hard as a construction worker, while his mother dedicated her time as a housewife. It’s clear that this actor’s path—from local stages to global fame—was built on talent, perseverance, and a little twist of fate. And now, as his name continues to light up credits across Hollywood, there’s no doubt he’s here to stay.
He took home the Golden Calf for Best Actor at the 2013 Netherlands Film Festival, thanks to his standout performance in the Dutch crime drama Wolf. It was a major milestone in his career, and honestly, it wasn’t surprising—his portrayal was intense, gripping, and absolutely deserving of the recognition. He really brought something special to the role, elevating the entire film. Winning such a prestigious award definitely put him on the map in the Dutch film industry, and from that moment on, he became a name to watch. His work in Wolf showcased not just talent, but depth—and he proved he could carry a complex character with authenticity. He earned every bit of that Golden Calf.