Omar Sharif

Omar Sharif (April 10, 1932 – July 31, 2013) was an Egyptian-American actor who became one of the most recognizable international film stars of the 20th century. Born Michel Demitri Shalhoub in Alexandria, Egypt, he adopted the stage name Omar Sharif early in his career. He rose to international prominence with his role as Sherif Ali in David Lean's 'Lawrence of Arabia' (1962), which earned him an Academy Award nomination and made him a household name. His striking appearance and charismatic presence made him a leading man in Hollywood during the 1960s and 1970s, starring in acclaimed films including 'Doctor Zhivago' (1965), 'Funny Girl' (1968), and 'The Last Temptation of Christ' (1988). Beyond cinema, Sharif was an accomplished bridge player who competed internationally and authored books on the game. His legacy spans continents—he remained a beloved figure in Arab cinema while achieving superstar status in the West, breaking cultural barriers and representing Arab talent on the global stage.