Actresses Who Are Muslim

The presence of Muslim actresses in Hollywood has grown significantly over the last few decades as the industry seeks more diverse and authentic representation. These talented performers have transitioned from supporting roles to leading major franchises and prestige television series. Many of these women navigate their careers while balancing their cultural heritage and religious identity in the public eye. Their contributions span across genres including action, drama, comedy, and science fiction. This visibility provides essential representation for global audiences and helps broaden the scope of storytelling in modern cinema.

Shohreh Aghdashloo

Shohreh Aghdashloo is an Iranian American actress who earned an Academy Award nomination for her performance in ‘House of Sand and Fog’. She has become a staple in science fiction television through her portrayal of Chrisjen Avasarala in the popular series ‘The Expanse’. Her voice is widely recognized in the gaming community for her work in ‘Destiny’ and ‘Mass Effect’. She often portrays strong and authoritative characters across both film and television. Her career reflects a dedication to authentic storytelling and high quality performance in the Hollywood industry.

Iman Vellani

Iman Vellani rose to international fame when she was cast as the lead in the Disney plus series ‘Ms. Marvel’. She plays Kamala Khan who is a Pakistani American teenager and the first Muslim superhero to headline a Marvel production. Vellani reprised her role in the feature film ‘The Marvels’ where she starred alongside Brie Larson and Teyonah Parris. Her energetic performance has been praised for bringing charm and relatability to the Marvel Cinematic Universe. She continues to be a prominent figure for young Muslim representation in mainstream media.

May Calamawy

May Calamawy is an Egyptian Palestinian actress known for her breakout role in the acclaimed series ‘Ramy’. She gained further global recognition for her performance as Layla El Faouly in the Marvel series ‘Moon Knight’. In that role she became the first actress to portray an Egyptian superhero in the franchise. Calamawy has also appeared in the comedy series ‘Togetherness’ and the historical drama ‘The Brave’. Her work often highlights complex characters that navigate modern identity and cultural expectations.

Hiam Abbass

Hiam Abbass is a Palestinian actress and director with an extensive career in international and Hollywood cinema. She is widely recognized for her role as Marcia Roy in the award winning drama series ‘Succession’. Her film credits include major productions such as ‘Blade Runner 2049’ and ‘Munich’. She also played a significant role in the series ‘Ramy’ where she portrayed the matriarch of the family. Abbass is respected for her ability to bring depth and gravity to every character she inhabits.

Golshifteh Farahani

Golshifteh Farahani is an Iranian actress who has made a successful transition to Hollywood and international cinema. She starred alongside Chris Hemsworth in the high octane action film ‘Extraction’ and its sequel. Her filmography includes ‘Body of Lies’ where she appeared with Leonardo DiCaprio and ‘Paterson’ opposite Adam Driver. She moved to France to continue her acting career after facing restrictions in her home country. Farahani is known for her versatile acting range and her participation in both blockbuster and independent films.

Nazanin Boniadi

Nazanin Boniadi is an Iranian born British actress who has appeared in numerous high profile Hollywood projects. She played a central role in the fantasy series ‘The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power’ as Bronwyn. Boniadi also had a notable role in the thriller series ‘Homeland’ and the spy drama ‘Counterpart’. Her film work includes the historical drama ‘Hotel Mumbai’ and the Marvel movie ‘Iron Man’. Beyond acting she is a dedicated human rights advocate who uses her platform to raise awareness for global issues.

Necar Zadegan

Necar Zadegan is an American actress of Iranian descent who is best known for her television work. She gained prominence for her role as Dalia Hassan in the eighth season of ’24’. Zadegan also starred in the procedural drama ‘NCIS: New Orleans’ as Special Agent Hannah Khoury. Her theater background includes a performance in the Broadway play ‘Bengal Tiger at the Baghdad Zoo’. She continues to work steadily in various dramatic series and legal dramas.

Medalion Rahimi

Medalion Rahimi is an Iranian American actress who has made a name for herself in television procedurals and dramas. She is most recognized for her role as Special Agent Fatima Namazi in ‘NCIS: Los Angeles’. Rahimi also appeared in the series ‘Still Star-Crossed’ and ‘The Catch’. Her film credits include the teen drama ‘Before I Fall’. She often speaks about the importance of representing her heritage and faith accurately on screen.

Yasmeen Fletcher

Yasmeen Fletcher is an actress and musician of Lebanese descent who gained fame for her role in ‘Ms. Marvel’. She played Nakia Bahadir who is the best friend of the protagonist and a strong advocate for her community. Fletcher has also appeared in projects like ‘Upside-Down Magic’ and ‘Let Us In’. Her role in the Marvel Cinematic Universe showcased a modern and nuanced portrayal of a young Muslim woman. She is considered a rising star in the industry with a focus on diverse storytelling.

Annet Mahendru

Annet Mahendru is an American actress born to an Indian father and a Russian mother. She is best known for her captivating performance as Nina Krilova in the spy drama ‘The Americans’. Mahendru also played a leading role in the series ‘The Walking Dead: World Beyond’. She is fluent in several languages which has helped her secure diverse roles in international productions. Her work often involves characters with complex loyalties and deep emotional backstories.

Shiva Negar

Shiva Negar is an Iranian Canadian actress who gained recognition for her role in the action film ‘American Assassin’. She starred opposite Dylan O’Brien and Michael Keaton in the high stakes thriller. Negar has also appeared in television series such as ‘The Cleaners’ and ‘Seal Team’. She started her career in music and performance before transitioning into full time acting. Her presence in the industry continues to grow through her work in action and drama genres.

Sarah Shahi

Sarah Shahi is an American actress of Iranian and Spanish descent who has had a long career in television. She is well known for her roles in ‘The L Word’ and ‘Person of Interest’. Shahi entered the superhero genre by playing Adrianna Tomaz in the DC film ‘Black Adam’. She also starred in the popular Netflix series ‘Sex/Life’. Her work spans a variety of roles from law enforcement officers to romantic leads.

Dina Shihabi

Dina Shihabi is a Saudi Arabian actress who was the first woman from her country to be accepted into both the Juilliard School and NYU Graduate Acting Program. She starred in the Amazon series ‘Jack Ryan’ as Hanin Ali. Shihabi also had a lead role in the Netflix horror series ‘Archive 81’. Her performance in ‘Ramy’ further solidified her reputation as a talented actress in Hollywood. She continues to break barriers for Arab women in the American entertainment industry.

Indya Moore

Indya Moore is an American actress and model who is best known for her role in the series ‘Pose’. She has spoken openly about her identity and her journey with faith including her connection to Islam. Moore has appeared in films such as ‘Queen & Slim’ and ‘Escape Room: Tournament of Champions’. She is a prominent advocate for marginalized communities and uses her celebrity to promote social justice. Her work in ‘Pose’ earned her significant critical acclaim and a loyal following.

Alia Shawkat

Alia Shawkat is an American actress of Iraqi descent who rose to fame as Maeby Fünke in the comedy series ‘Arrested Development’. She has since starred in the critically acclaimed mystery series ‘Search Party’. Her film work includes roles in ‘The To Do List’ and ‘Green Room’. Shawkat is also an artist and producer who often involves herself in independent cinema projects. She has frequently discussed her heritage and its influence on her creative perspective.

Layla Alizada

Layla Alizada is an Afghan born actress who has appeared in numerous American television shows. She is recognized for her roles in ‘The 100’ and ‘Shut Eye’. Alizada has also appeared in ‘Jane the Virgin’ and ‘The Muppets’ series. Her performance in the short film ‘Day One’ helped the project earn an Academy Award nomination. She is often cast in roles that require strong emotional range and dramatic intensity.

Yara Shahidi

Yara Shahidi is an American actress of Iranian and African American descent who gained fame on the sitcom ‘Black-ish’. She went on to star in her own spin off series titled ‘Grown-ish’. Shahidi played the iconic character Tinker Bell in the live action film ‘Peter Pan & Wendy’. She is also known for her activism and commitment to education while balancing a successful acting career. Her work continues to inspire young audiences across the globe.

Janet Jackson

Janet Jackson is a global music icon who has also had a significant career as an actress in film and television. She starred in movies such as ‘Poetic Justice’ and the ‘Why Did I Get Married?’ franchise. Jackson began her acting career as a child on shows like ‘Good Times’ and ‘Fame’. She converted to Islam following her marriage to Wissam Al Mana in 2012. Her influence on pop culture and entertainment remains immense after several decades in the industry.

Ellen Burstyn

Ellen Burstyn is a legendary American actress who has won an Academy Award and an Emmy. She is known for her iconic roles in ‘The Exorcist’ and ‘Alice Doesn’t Live Here Anymore’. Burstyn is a practitioner of Sufi Islam and has spoken about her spiritual journey in various interviews. Her career spans over sixty years with performances in films like ‘Requiem for a Dream’ and ‘Interstellar’. She remains one of the most respected figures in Hollywood history.

Sofia Boutella

Sofia Boutella is an Algerian actress and dancer who has starred in several major Hollywood blockbusters. She played the lead antagonist in ‘The Mummy’ and appeared as Gazelle in ‘Kingsman: The Secret Service’. Boutella also starred in the science fiction film ‘Star Trek Beyond’ as Jaylah. Most recently she led the cast of the Zack Snyder film ‘Rebel Moon’. Her background in professional dance often informs her physical and expressive acting style.

Melanie Liburd

Melanie Liburd is a British actress who has appeared in several popular American television series. She is well known for her role as Zoe in the drama series ‘This Is Us’. Liburd also appeared in ‘Game of Thrones’ and played a lead role in the psychological thriller ‘Gypsy’. Her career includes work in both the United Kingdom and the United States. She continues to take on diverse roles in television and film projects.

Aiysha Hart

Aiysha Hart is a British actress of Saudi descent who has worked on several high profile international projects. She is known for her role as Miriam Shepherd in the series ‘A Discovery of Witches’. Hart also starred in the BBC series ‘Atlantis’ and the crime drama ‘Line of Duty’. Her film work includes a role in the independent drama ‘Colette’ alongside Keira Knightley. She is recognized for her ability to play both historical and contemporary characters.

Amber Rose Revah

Amber Rose Revah is a British actress of Kenyan and Polish heritage who identifies as Muslim. She gained international recognition for her role as Dinah Madani in the Marvel series ‘The Punisher’. Revah also appeared in the miniseries ‘House of Saddam’ and the adventure series ‘Emerald City’. Her performance in ‘Indian Summers’ showcased her talent for historical drama. She continues to work in major television productions across the Atlantic.

Tala Ashe

Tala Ashe is an Iranian American actress who is best known for her role in the superhero series ‘Legends of Tomorrow’. She plays Zari Tomaz who is a computer hacker from the future and the first Muslim superhero on a DC television show. Ashe has a strong background in theater and has performed in many off Broadway productions. Her character on ‘Legends of Tomorrow’ has been praised for its positive and modern representation of faith. She remains a fan favorite in the Arrowverse community.

Iman

Iman is a world famous Somali fashion model and actress who broke many barriers in the entertainment industry. She has appeared in films such as ‘Star Trek VI: The Undiscovered Country’ and ‘Out of Africa’. As a pioneer for African women in media she has used her platform to advocate for diversity and philanthropy. She was married to the late David Bowie and remains a significant figure in both fashion and cinema. Her presence in Hollywood has paved the way for many contemporary Muslim performers.

Jameela Jamil

Jameela Jamil is a British actress and presenter who gained fame in America for her role in ‘The Good Place’. She played Tahani Al-Jamil in the critically acclaimed comedy series. Jamil also joined the Marvel Cinematic Universe as the villain Titania in ‘She-Hulk: Attorney at Law’. She is known for her outspoken views on body positivity and social justice. Her work continues to span across acting, hosting, and activism.

Noureen DeWulf

Noureen DeWulf is an American actress of Indian descent who has appeared in many comedic films and shows. She is best known for her role as Lacey in the sitcom ‘Anger Management’. DeWulf also starred in the film ‘Ghosts of Girlfriends Past’ and the Oscar winning short ‘West Bank Story’. Her career focuses largely on comedy where she has built a consistent body of work. She often represents her cultural background through her various television roles.

Summer Bishil

Summer Bishil is an American actress who gained critical acclaim for her role in the film ‘Towelhead’. She is also widely known for playing Margo Hanson in the fantasy series ‘The Magicians’. Her performance in the series was praised for its wit and emotional depth. Bishil has appeared in other projects such as ‘The Last Airbender’ and ‘90210’. She continues to work in both television and independent film.

Shani Atias

Shani Atias is an Israeli actress who has appeared in several American television productions. She had a role in the series ‘Shameless’ and appeared in the drama ‘MacGyver’. Atias also worked on the series ‘Ten Days in the Valley’ alongside Kyra Sedgwick. She moved to Los Angeles to pursue her acting career and has since worked steadily in the industry. Her work reflects her international background and versatility.

Shila Ommi

Shila Ommi is an Iranian American actress who has appeared in several high profile streaming series. She is recognized for her role as Nahid in the Apple TV plus series ‘Tehran’. Ommi also provided her voice for the character Cinder in the animated film ‘Elemental’. Her career includes extensive work in theater and voice acting. She continues to be a prominent voice in the Iranian diaspora acting community.

Bahar Soomekh

Bahar Soomekh is an Iranian American actress who appeared in several major films during the early 2000s. She is best known for her role in the Academy Award winning film ‘Crash’. Soomekh also appeared in ‘Mission: Impossible III’ and the horror film ‘Saw III’. After a successful period in acting she transitioned into environmental and social activism. Her performances helped increase the visibility of Middle Eastern actresses in Hollywood.

Yasmine Al Massri

Yasmine Al Massri is a Palestinian French actress who made her American television debut in ‘Quantico’. She played the dual roles of twins Nimah and Raina Amin in the thriller series. Al Massri also appeared in the series ‘Crossbones’ and the film ‘Caramel’. She is known for her ability to perform in multiple languages and her dedication to human rights. Her work in ‘Quantico’ was celebrated for its nuanced portrayal of Muslim women in law enforcement.

Ahd Kamel

Ahd Kamel is a Saudi Arabian actress and filmmaker who has appeared in international productions. She is known for her role in the Netflix series ‘Collateral’ where she played Fatma. Kamel also appeared in the acclaimed film ‘Wadjda’ which was a milestone for Saudi cinema. She continues to work as both a performer and a director to tell stories from her region. Her presence in Western media helps bridge the gap between different cultural narratives.

Razane Jammal

Razane Jammal is a Lebanese actress who has appeared in several high profile international projects. She gained significant attention for her role as Lyta Hall in the Netflix series ‘The Sandman’. Jammal also starred in the Arabic Netflix series ‘Paranormal’ which reached a global audience. Her film work includes ‘A Walk Among the Tombstones’ where she appeared alongside Liam Neeson. She is considered one of the leading Arab actresses working in the global industry today.

Tara Emad

Tara Emad is an Egyptian actress and model who has begun to make an impact on international screens. She is a well known figure in Middle Eastern cinema and has appeared in projects with global distribution. Emad has participated in various international fashion campaigns and film festivals. Her career is expanding into more English language roles as she gains recognition outside of her home region. She is known for her elegance and versatile acting abilities.

Rosaline Elbay

Rosaline Elbay is an Egyptian actress and writer known for her role in the series ‘Ramy’. She also appeared in the Netflix heist series ‘Kaleidoscope’ as Judy Goodwin. Elbay is a graduate of the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Art. Her work often involves characters that are witty and fiercely independent. She is becoming a recognizable face in American television through her diverse casting choices.

Hiba Abouk

Hiba Abouk is a Spanish actress of Tunisian and Libyan descent who has worked in international television. She is widely known for her lead role in the popular Spanish series ‘El Principe’. Abouk has also appeared in various French and Spanish film productions. She is fluent in several languages including Arabic and French which allows her to work across different markets. Her presence in the European and international acting scene remains strong.

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