Marwan Kenzari is a talented Dutch actor whose career has flourished since he began in 2008. He first gained significant recognition for his compelling performance in the 2013 film “Wolf,” where he portrayed a kickboxer named Majid. His dedication to the role, which included extensive training, earned him the prestigious Golden Calf award for Best Actor at the Netherlands Film Festival, marking a pivotal moment in his career and establishing him as a formidable talent in the film industry.
Kenzari’s transition to English-language films began in 2016, where he showcased his versatility in projects such as “Collide,” “Ben-Hur,” and “The Promise.” His performances garnered attention, leading The Hollywood Reporter to include him in their list of “15 International Breakout Talents of 2016.” This recognition set the stage for his subsequent roles in high-profile films, further solidifying his status as an international star.
In 2019, Kenzari captivated audiences worldwide with his portrayal of the villain Jafar in Disney’s live-action adaptation of “Aladdin.” His charismatic performance not only earned him the nickname “hot Jafar” but also showcased his ability to bring depth to complex characters. Following this success, he starred in the action-packed film “The Old Guard” in 2020, further expanding his repertoire.
Kenzari’s recent role as Ishmael Gregor/Sabbac in the 2022 superhero film “Black Adam” continues to highlight his dynamic range as an actor. Additionally, his portrayal of the controversial KNIL officer Raymond Westerling in the film “The East” demonstrates his commitment to tackling challenging roles. With his impressive body of work and multilingual abilities, Marwan Kenzari is undoubtedly a rising star in the global film industry.