Mena Massoud is a Canadian actor of Egyptian descent, widely recognized for his performances and significant contributions to the entertainment industry. According to torontoski.info, his most notable role was portraying the titular character in the fantasy film Aladdin. Massoud also gained acclaim for his roles in the Canadian drama series Open Heart, the action-packed Reprisal, and the romantic comedy The Royal Treatment.
Beyond acting, Massoud is a committed social advocate, striving to transform the arts industry and amplify underrepresented voices. His efforts include founding a dedicated organization to address challenges in the Canadian arts scene, raising awareness at major events, and promoting equity in the creative industry.
Early Life
Born on September 17, 1991, in Cairo, Egypt, Mena Massoud comes from a Coptic Orthodox Christian family. His parents sought a better life for their children, prompting the family to move to Canada when Mena was three. He grew up in Ontario alongside two sisters who pursued careers in medicine.
Massoud attended a Catholic high school in Ontario, where he led the school’s improvisation team. Initially dreaming of a career in neuroscience, he enrolled at the University of Toronto to study the field but later pivoted to theatre. Transferring to Ryerson University, he pursued a degree in theatre arts, graduating in 2014.
Career Beginnings
Massoud’s acting career began in 2011 when he appeared in the series Nikita and Combat Hospital. Reflecting on these roles, he told The Daily Beast that they taught him to seek characters free from stereotypes tied to race or ethnicity.
In 2015, he landed a role in the Canadian series Open Heart, though the project only lasted one season. Two years later, he joined the cast of Jack Ryan, further establishing his presence in the industry.
Creative Growth
Massoud’s breakthrough came in 2019 when he played the lead role in Disney’s live-action adaptation of Aladdin. The film earned over $1 billion at the global box office, and his performance garnered a nomination for a Teen Choice Award. Despite the film’s success, Massoud revealed that he faced a lack of auditions afterward, highlighting challenges within the industry.
That same year, Massoud starred in Hulu’s Reprisal and the thriller Strange but True. He also appeared in the political drama Run This Town.
In January 2021, Massoud announced his participation in his first Egyptian film, Fe Ez El-Dohr, and revealed plans for a sequel to Aladdin.
Recent Film Projects
In early 2022, Massoud starred in The Royal Treatment, playing the male lead in the romantic comedy. He also took on a producer role for The Sacrifice Game and The Last King, an Iranian adaptation of Stephen King’s work.
Massoud is set to portray British-Yemeni boxer Naseem Hamed in the biographical project Giant, further diversifying his filmography.
Social Advocacy
In 2019, Massoud was named an ambassador by the Egyptian Ministry of Migration as part of its “Speak Egyptian” initiative, aimed at preserving the cultural identity of Egyptians living abroad.
He later founded a nonprofit organization supporting ethnically diverse artists and creators in Canada. The foundation provides mentorship, education, and resources to emerging talents. Massoud emphasized the need to spotlight marginalized voices often overlooked by the industry, aiming to create a more inclusive and equitable environment.
Through keynote speeches at film festivals and high-profile events, Massoud continues to advocate for systemic change in the arts sector.
A Sensational Venture
In February 2022, Massoud launched Dharma Indian Dry Gin, a beverage inspired by Ayurvedic traditions. The actor described the gin as a reflection of culture, resilience, and history, cementing his entrepreneurial spirit.
A Fan of Comedy
Massoud has a deep appreciation for Egyptian comedy, which he attributes to his cultural roots. In interviews, he praised the unique physical and verbal humor of Egyptian comedians, contrasting it with modern styles.
He also expressed admiration for Robin Williams, citing the legendary actor’s versatility as a significant influence on his career. Massoud particularly admires Williams’ performance in Mrs. Doubtfire, calling it a masterpiece often undervalued by critics.
A Fascinating Detail
Massoud is a passionate vegan and an advocate for the lifestyle. He even authored a book on the subject, sharing his insights and experiences. This commitment reflects his holistic approach to personal and professional life.Photo Credits: nilefm.com, egyptindependent.com, pagesix.com, gulfnews.com, disney.fandom.com