39 Facts About Omar Sharif

Early Life and Background

Omar Sharif, a name synonymous with classic cinema, had a life filled with fascinating details. Let's dive into some lesser-known facts about this legendary actor.

1. 01Omar Sharif was born Michel Demitri Shalhoub on April 10, 1932, in Alexandria, Egypt.
2. 02His family was Lebanese-Egyptian and belonged to the Melkite Greek Catholic Church.
3. 03Sharif's father was a successful timber merchant, which provided the family with a comfortable lifestyle.
4. 04He attended Victoria College in Alexandria, where he developed an interest in acting.
5. 05Sharif graduated from Cairo University with a degree in mathematics and physics.

Career Beginnings

Before becoming an international star, Sharif had humble beginnings in Egyptian cinema.

6. 06He made his film debut in 1954 with the Egyptian movie "Sira` Fi al-Wadi" (Struggle in the Valley).
7. 07His birth name was changed to Omar El-Sharif for his acting career.
8. 08Sharif quickly became a leading man in Egyptian cinema, starring in numerous films throughout the 1950s and 1960s.
9. 09He met his future wife, Egyptian actress Faten Hamama, on the set of his first film.
10. 10Sharif converted to Islam to marry Hamama, changing his name officially to Omar Sharif.

Hollywood Breakthrough

Sharif's talent soon caught the eye of international filmmakers, leading to his big break in Hollywood.

11. 11Director David Lean cast Sharif in the role of Sherif Ali in the epic film "Lawrence of Arabia" (1962).
12. 12His performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
13. 13Sharif's iconic entrance scene in "Lawrence of Arabia" is considered one of the greatest in film history.
14. 14He won a Golden Globe Award for his role in the film.
15. 15Sharif's success in "Lawrence of Arabia" opened doors to more Hollywood roles.

Iconic Roles

Sharif's career is marked by several unforgettable performances in classic films.

16. 16He starred as the title character in "Doctor Zhivago" (1965), another epic directed by David Lean.
17. 17"Doctor Zhivago" became one of the highest-grossing films of all time.
18. 18Sharif received a second Golden Globe Award for his role in "Doctor Zhivago."
19. 19He played the role of Nicky Arnstein opposite Barbra Streisand in "Funny Girl" (1968).
20. 20Sharif reprised his role as Nicky Arnstein in the sequel "Funny Lady" (1975).

Personal Life

Beyond the silver screen, Sharif's personal life was equally captivating.

21. 21Sharif and Faten Hamama had one son, Tarek El-Sharif, born in 1957.
22. 22The couple divorced in 1974, but Sharif never remarried.
23. 23He was fluent in several languages, including Arabic, English, French, Spanish, and Italian.
24. 24Sharif was an avid bridge player and even wrote a syndicated newspaper column on the game.
25. 25He co-authored several books on bridge and was regarded as one of the world's top players.

Later Years and Legacy

Even in his later years, Sharif continued to leave a lasting impact on the world of cinema.

26. 26He received a César Award for Best Actor for his role in the French film "Monsieur Ibrahim" (2003).
27. 27Sharif was honored with a Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival in 2003.
28. 28He appeared in over 100 films and television series throughout his career.
29. 29Sharif was known for his charm, wit, and distinctive voice.
30. 30He passed away on July 10, 2015, at the age of 83, due to a heart attack.

Fun Facts and Trivia

Sharif's life was filled with interesting tidbits that fans might find surprising.

31. 31He was a close friend of actor Peter O'Toole, his co-star in "Lawrence of Arabia."
32. 32Sharif once said he learned to speak English by watching American movies.
33. 33He was a fan of horse racing and owned several racehorses.
34. 34Sharif appeared in a commercial for the French coffee brand Carte Noire.
35. 35He was awarded the UNESCO Sergei Eisenstein Medal in 2005 for his contributions to world cinema.

Recognitions and Honors

Sharif's contributions to film and culture earned him numerous accolades.

36. 36He received the Sergei Eisenstein Medal from UNESCO in 2005.
37. 37Sharif was named a Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters by the French government.
38. 38He was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
39. 39Sharif's legacy continues to inspire actors and filmmakers around the world.

Omar Sharif's Lasting Legacy

Omar Sharif left an indelible mark on cinema and culture. Known for his roles in "Lawrence of Arabia" and "Doctor Zhivago," he captivated audiences worldwide. Beyond acting, his passion for bridge showcased his multifaceted talents. Sharif's charm and versatility made him a beloved figure in Hollywood and beyond.

His contributions to film and his unique personal interests, like his bridge expertise, continue to inspire. Sharif's legacy is not just in his films but in the way he lived his life with passion and dedication. His story reminds us that pursuing diverse interests can lead to a rich, fulfilling life.

Omar Sharif's influence endures, reminding us of the power of talent, charisma, and a love for life's varied pursuits. His legacy will continue to inspire future generations.