Famous Moroccan Film & Theater Personalities

Gad Elmaleh is a Moroccan-Canadian stand-up comedian and actor known for his success in the French-speaking world, particularly in France, Morocco, and the United States. He has garnered fame through feature films such as Coco, Priceless, La Doublure, and Midnight in Paris. Elmaleh has been recognized for his comedic talents, being voted the funniest person in France and receiving prestigious titles such as knight of the Order of Arts and Letters in France and knight of the National Order of Quebec. He has also embarked on successful comedy tours across the United States and starred in the Netflix series Huge in France in 2019.

Michel Qissi is a Belgian Moroccan actor known for his collaborations with Jean-Claude Van Damme. He has appeared in several action films including Breakin' (1984), Bloodsport (1988), Kickboxer (1989), where he portrayed the villain Tong Po, Lionheart (1990), and Kickboxer: Vengeance (2016). Qissi's roles often involve him playing antagonistic characters, showcasing his skills in martial arts and acting. His partnership with Van Damme has contributed to his recognition in the action film genre, solidifying his place in the industry.

Soumaya Akaaboune is a prominent Moroccan actress known for her versatile performances on screen and stage. With a career spanning several decades, she has established herself as a respected figure in the entertainment industry. Akaaboune has showcased her acting prowess in a diverse range of roles, portraying complex characters with depth and authenticity. Her talent and dedication have earned her critical acclaim and numerous awards, solidifying her reputation as one of the most talented actresses in Morocco.

Abdel Qissi is a Moroccan-Belgian actor and former boxer. He had eight recorded fights in the early 1980s before transitioning to acting. Qissi is best known for his collaborations with Jean-Claude Van Damme, appearing in films like Lionheart (1990), The Quest (1996), and The Order (2001). His on-screen presence and martial arts skills have garnered him recognition in the action film genre, solidifying his status as a prominent figure in the world of martial arts cinema.

Sofia Pernas is an American actress based in Los Angeles known for her roles in television series. She gained recognition for starring in the NBC series The Brave, where she showcased her acting skills in a prominent role. Pernas further solidified her presence in the industry by portraying a lead character in the CBS action adventure series Blood & Treasure. With her talent and dedication, she continues to impress audiences with her performances, establishing herself as a notable figure in the world of entertainment.

Faudel Belloua is a prominent French raï singer and actor with Algerian heritage. He has established himself through the release of several successful studio albums, including Baïda, Samra, Un Autre Soleil, and Mundial Corrida. Faudel is also known for his collaboration on the live album 1,2,3 Soleils, which he recorded jointly with Khaled and Rachid Taha. His career has been marked by a fusion of traditional raï music with modern influences, earning him recognition and acclaim in the music industry.

Nadia Farès is a French actress known for her diverse roles in film and television. She began her career in 1992 and gained recognition for her performance in the police thriller Les Rivières pourpres (The Crimson Rivers). Farès has showcased her talent in various genres, from action/thriller in War to horror in Storm Warning. With a successful career spanning several decades, she continues to captivate audiences with her versatile acting skills and ability to bring characters to life on screen.

Ibtissam Tiskat is a Moroccan singer and actress known for her participation in Arab Idol and Star Academy Arab World. She gained fame through her commercial singing debut with "N'dir Mabghit" in September 2014. Tiskat's professional life is marked by her successful music career, with a focus on pop and Arabic music genres. She has garnered a strong fan base in the Arab world and continues to captivate audiences with her vocal talent and on-screen presence.

Laïla Aziz is a Dutch fashion designer and the founder of the fashion brand Kayat based in Los Angeles. She studied law before pursuing a career in fashion and working as a stylist in New York. In 2008, she launched her fashion brand Kayat in Los Angeles. Her collections have received recognition, with features in Vogue's "Autumn/Winter Ready-To-Wear" collection in 2018 and inclusion in the 2020 Arab Fashion Week. Aziz continues to make a mark in the fashion industry with her creative designs and innovative collections.

Fati Jamali is a renowned model and pageant competitor who gained recognition after winning the title of Miss Africa in 2013 and being crowned Miss Arab Beauty in 2014. Alongside her academic pursuits, she ventured into modeling, gracing fashion shows and advertising campaigns. Fati also showcased her talent in the entertainment industry by participating in the show Mille et une nuits and featuring in the series Soultan Moulay Ismail. Known for her social media presence, she frequently shares photos of her son and collaborates with fellow influencers like Mustafa Agha.

Omar Berdouni is a Moroccan actor known for his roles in a variety of feature films, including The Hamburg Cell, United 93, The Situation, The Kingdom, Extraordinary Rendition, Body of Lies, Les Chevaliers du Ciel, and Green Zone. He has worked with acclaimed directors such as Jim Threapleton and starred alongside actors like Leonardo DiCaprio. Berdouni's career highlights also include his role as Ahmed in the BBC show Occupation. With a diverse range of roles in both international and French cinema, Berdouni has established himself as a versatile and talented actor.

Nezha Regragui is a prominent Moroccan theatre, TV, and film actress known for her versatile performances in various plays and films, notably appearing in the production "Goodbye Mothers." Her talent and dedication have earned her recognition in the entertainment industry. Regragui's contributions to acting have left a lasting impact, showcasing her range and skill as an actress. She continues to captivate audiences with her compelling portrayals on stage and screen, solidifying her reputation as a respected figure in Moroccan entertainment.

Rachid El Ouali is a prominent figure in the Moroccan entertainment industry, with a versatile career as an actor, producer, director, and TV host. He has gained recognition for his exceptional talent and contribution to the Moroccan film and television scene. El Ouali has portrayed a wide range of characters on screen, showcasing his acting prowess. As a producer and director, he has been involved in creating compelling content that resonates with audiences. Additionally, his work as a TV host has further solidified his status as a respected personality in the media industry.

El Hedi ben Salem was a Moroccan actor renowned for his collaboration with acclaimed filmmaker Rainer Werner Fassbinder. His professional life was marked by significant contributions to cinema, particularly through his compelling performances in Fassbinder's films. Known for his intense and captivating acting style, El Hedi ben Salem left a lasting impact on the film industry with his powerful portrayals of complex characters. His work with Fassbinder helped solidify his reputation as a talented actor and earned him recognition for his exceptional talent and dedication to his craft.

Hassan El Fad is a talented Moroccan actor and comedian with a knack for humor and comedy shows. He is particularly known for his skills in playing the saxophone. His career took off with his first one-man show, Ninja, which garnered significant success. El Fad then delved into serial comic shows like Chaîne Ci BiBi, Canal 36, and Chanily TV. His versatility was further showcased in his one-man show, Docteur Escargot, and his role in the popular television series L'Couple.

Said Naciri, a versatile Moroccan professional, is widely recognized as an actor, comedian, and producer. Over the years, he has made significant contributions to the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with his talent and humor. Through his various roles and productions, Naciri has showcased his creativity and skill, leaving a lasting impact on both the local and international entertainment scenes. With a diverse range of projects under his belt, he continues to be a prominent figure in the world of film and comedy.

Driss Roukhe is a prominent Moroccan actor and director known for his versatile performances on screen and stage. With a career spanning decades, he has established himself as a highly skilled and respected artist in the entertainment industry. Roukhe has portrayed a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity, showcasing his talent and dedication to his craft. As a director, he has also demonstrated his creative vision and storytelling prowess, contributing to the success of numerous projects in the film and theater world.

Nathalie Delon was a versatile figure in the entertainment industry, known for her work as an actress, model, film director, and writer. She gained recognition for her role in the acclaimed neo-noir film Le Samouraï, where she starred alongside her husband, actor Alain Delon. Throughout her career, she appeared in a total of 30 films and also took on the role of director for two projects. Delon's contributions to the world of cinema showcased her talent and dedication to the craft.

Hassan Al-Jundi was a prominent Moroccan dramatic artist known for his significant contributions to Arab theater. He was recognized as one of the most iconic Moroccan artists of the 20th century and was celebrated for his work as an award-winning author, film director, and actor. Al-Jundi's professional life was marked by his pioneering spirit in the world of theater, where he left a lasting legacy through his innovative productions and impactful performances. His dedication and talent cemented his reputation as a respected figure in the cultural landscape of Morocco and beyond.

Amidou, a Moroccan-French actor, had a prolific career in film, television, and stage. He notably collaborated with director Claude Lelouch on eleven films and starred in a variety of international productions, including Spaghetti Westerns and American films. Amidou received numerous awards for his acting, including Best Actor at the Rio de Janeiro International Film Festival. He was recognized with a Lifetime Career Award at the International Film Festival of Marrakech. Amidou made significant contributions to the world of cinema before his passing in 2013.

Karima Gouit is a Moroccan singer known for her participation in talent shows such as Star Academy Arab World and O Ses Türkiye. Initially starting her career as a model, she gained recognition for her impressive vocal abilities during her time as a contestant on these shows. Despite not winning either competition, Gouit's performances showcased her talent and passion for music, leading to a growing fan base and opportunities to further establish herself as a prominent figure in the music industry.

Ouidad Elma is a talented French-Moroccan actress known for her captivating performances on both stage and screen. With a background in theater, she has honed her craft and garnered critical acclaim for her ability to bring depth and emotion to her characters. Elma has showcased her versatility by taking on a diverse range of roles, showcasing her talent and range as an actress. Her dedication to her craft and her commitment to excellence have solidified her reputation as a rising star in the entertainment industry.

Lubna Azabal is a talented Belgian actress known for her versatile performances across film, television, and theater. She has garnered critical acclaim for her compelling portrayals in a wide range of roles, showcasing her impressive range and depth as an actress. Azabal has worked with renowned directors and actors, establishing herself as a prominent figure in the entertainment industry. Her dedication to her craft and ability to bring complex characters to life have solidified her reputation as a respected and sought-after talent in the world of acting.

Assaad Bouab is a talented French actor known for his diverse and impressive body of work in both film and television. With a background in prestigious acting schools like Cours Florent and CNSAD, he has honed his craft and showcased his skills in various projects. Bouab's breakout role came in the film Whatever Lola Wants, directed by Nabil Ayouch, and he has since gained recognition for his regular role in the acclaimed French television series Call My Agent!. His work demonstrates his versatility and dedication to the craft of acting.

Nabil Elouahabi is a British actor recognized for his notable roles in television series and films. He portrayed Tariq Larousi in the popular soap opera EastEnders from 2003 to 2005, Rashid "Gary" Mahmoon in the 2002 Christmas Special of Only Fools and Horses titled "Strangers on the Shore," and Mr. Mustapha in the Netflix series Top Boy in 2011 and 2013. Elouahabi's performances showcase his versatility and talent, earning him a place in the hearts of audiences and critical acclaim within the entertainment industry.

Mourad Zaoui is a highly regarded Moroccan actor known for his versatile performances across film, television, and theater. With a career spanning several years, he has honed his craft and gained recognition for his exceptional talent and dedication to his roles. Zaoui has starred in numerous successful projects, showcasing his ability to portray a wide range of characters with depth and authenticity. His contributions to the entertainment industry have solidified his reputation as a respected and accomplished actor.

Zineb Triki is a talented French-Moroccan actress known for her role as Nadia El Mansour in the popular French television series The Bureau. With a background in political science and audio-visual production, Triki's acting career began in 2009, gradually gaining recognition through roles in TV series and films such as Deux fenêtres, La Marche verte, and De toutes mes forces. Her performance in The Bureau showcased her acting prowess, and she continues to captivate audiences with her on-screen presence and versatility.

Touriya Jabrane was a prominent figure in Moroccan theatre, known for her work as a theatre director, actress, and politician. She served as Minister of Culture in the cabinet of Abbas El Fassi between 2007 and 2009, showcasing her dedication to the arts and cultural development in her country. Jabrane's contributions to the cultural scene in Morocco were widely recognized, and her passing in 2020 was mourned by many who appreciated her talent and commitment to the arts.

Laarbi Batma was a multi-talented Moroccan artist known for his contributions to music, poetry, singing, writing, and acting. As the front man of the renowned group Nass El Ghiwane, he played a pivotal role in shaping Moroccan music and culture. Batma's powerful vocals and deep lyrics resonated with audiences, establishing him as a prominent figure in the music industry. His innovative approach to blending traditional Moroccan sounds with contemporary influences left a lasting impact, solidifying his legacy as a cultural icon.

Anouar Farhat is an actor and internet comedian known for his short Vine sketches and YouTube vlogs. With over 1 million subscribers on his YouTube channel, he started posting videos in January 2015. Transitioning from Vine to Facebook, he has gained over 310,000 followers by sharing sketch comedy videos. Originally from Morocco, his YouTube success has enabled him to form friendships with fellow stars like Ayoub Akil. Anouar Farhat's career is defined by his comedic talent and digital presence, attracting a large following online.

Ahmed El Maanouni is a multifaceted Moroccan professional with a diverse range of roles in the film industry. As a screenwriter, film director, cinematographer, actor, and producer, his works have garnered international acclaim. Notably, his film "Alyam Alyam" was the first Moroccan film selected at the Cannes Film Festival and won the Grand Prize at the Mannheim Film Festival. His film "Trances" was presented by Martin Scorsese at Cannes to inaugurate the World Cinema Foundation. El Maanouni's documentaries focus on colonial history's impact on Moroccan memory. He is also involved in educational initiatives globally and has been recognized for his contributions to the arts.

Tarek Boudali is a prominent French actor and humorist of Moroccan descent known for his versatile performances in the entertainment industry. With a career spanning several years, he has starred in numerous films and television shows, showcasing his comedic talents and acting skills. Boudali has gained recognition for his ability to engage audiences with his humor and charisma, establishing himself as a respected figure in the French entertainment scene. His work reflects a dedication to his craft and a passion for entertaining audiences worldwide.

Ahmed Badouj was a prominent Moroccan Amazigh actor, director, screenwriter, and man of the theater. He made significant contributions to the Moroccan entertainment industry through his versatile talents. Badouj's work spanned various aspects of filmmaking, including acting, directing, and writing scripts. He was known for his dedication to promoting Amazigh culture and heritage through his artistic endeavors. His professional achievements left a lasting impact on the Moroccan theater scene, earning him a respected place among his peers and audiences.

Roschdy Zem is a highly acclaimed French actor and filmmaker of Moroccan descent. He gained international recognition for his outstanding performance in the film Days of Glory, which earned him the prestigious Best Actor award at the 2006 Cannes Film Festival. Zem has showcased his exceptional talent in a variety of roles across film and television, establishing himself as a versatile and respected figure in the entertainment industry. With a successful career spanning decades, he continues to captivate audiences with his powerful performances and creative contributions to cinema.

Morjana Alaoui is a Moroccan actress known for her starring roles in films that tackle themes of sexual taboos, cultural and religious values, and female emancipation in Morocco. She gained recognition for her performances in director Laila Marrakchi's Marock and Rock the Casbah. Additionally, she starred in Pascal Laugier's horror film Martyrs, which is associated with the New French Extremity movement. Alaoui's diverse roles have showcased her talent and versatility as an actress, earning her a reputation for taking on challenging and thought-provoking projects.

Douzi is a Moroccan pop singer known for his captivating vocals and engaging performances. With a career spanning several years, he has established himself as a prominent figure in the music industry. Douzi has released numerous hit songs and albums that have garnered widespread popularity among fans both in Morocco and internationally. His unique style and soulful voice have earned him a loyal following, and he continues to enchant audiences with his talent and passion for music.

Gérard Darmon is a talented French-Moroccan actor and singer known for his versatile performances on screen and stage. He has garnered critical acclaim for his acting skills, receiving two nominations for the prestigious César Award for Best Supporting Actor. Darmon's notable roles include appearances in prominent films such as "Betty Blue" and "Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra." With his impressive acting range and charismatic presence, he has established himself as a respected figure in the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with his performances.

Loubna Abidar is a talented Moroccan actress known for her versatile performances in both film and television. She gained recognition for her bold and powerful portrayals of complex characters, showcasing her strong acting skills and captivating presence on screen. Abidar has tackled a wide range of roles, from dramatic to comedic, earning critical acclaim for her performances. Her dedication to her craft and ability to immerse herself in diverse characters have solidified her reputation as a respected and accomplished actress in the Moroccan entertainment industry.

Wiam Dahmani was a talented Moroccan presenter, actress, and singer who made a mark in the entertainment industry, particularly in the UAE. She showcased her acting skills in several Pakistani films, including Ishq Khuda, Hijrat, and Hotal, leaving a lasting impression on audiences. Known for her versatile performances, Wiam Dahmani's professional journey was characterized by her passion for the arts and her ability to captivate viewers with her on-screen presence.

Abdellah Taïa is a prominent Moroccan writer and filmmaker based in Paris since 1999. He has written nine novels, many reflecting his own life experiences. His works have been translated into various languages, showcasing his global impact. Taïa made history as the first openly gay Arab writer in 2006, and he remains a trailblazer in the Moroccan and Arab literary and film scenes. His groundbreaking film "Salvation Army" introduced the Arab world to a gay protagonist, solidifying his status as an influential figure and beacon of hope in his homeland and beyond.

Leila Shenna was a former Moroccan actress who gained recognition for her roles in various films during the 1970s and 1980s. She is best known for her portrayal of an evil air hostess in the 1979 film Moonraker, where she played a Bond girl. Shenna also appeared in other notable films such as Remparts d'argile, Chronique des années de braise, and Vent de sable. With a diverse filmography that included both internationally acclaimed and local productions, she left a lasting impact on the world of cinema.

Sofia Essaïdi is a talented French-Moroccan singer and actress known for her versatile performances. She gained popularity through her participation in various singing competitions and musicals. Essaïdi has released successful albums and singles, showcasing her powerful vocals and emotional depth. In addition to her music career, she has also made a mark in the acting world with notable roles in film, television, and theater productions. Essaïdi's charisma and dedication have earned her a respected place in the entertainment industry.

Sanâa Alaoui, also known as Sanaa Alaoui, is a versatile French Moroccan actress known for her compelling performances on screen. With a career spanning both French and Moroccan cinema, she has showcased her talent in a variety of roles, from dramatic to comedic. Alaoui's ability to bring depth and authenticity to her characters has earned her critical acclaim and a dedicated fan following. Her work reflects a commitment to storytelling and a passion for exploring diverse narratives, establishing her as a respected figure in the film industry.

Amal Ayouch is a Moroccan actress known for her performances in the French language, particularly in film and on stage since the late 1990s. Her talent and dedication have earned her recognition, including an award at the African Women's Film Festival in Brazzaville in January 2015. Ayouch has been actively involved in Morocco's Fondation des arts vivants (Living Arts Foundation) and has played a significant role in promoting the arts and culture scene in the region.

Mayssa Maghrebi is an Emirati-Moroccan actress who began her career in 2000. She has gained recognition for her roles in various television series across the Arab world, including Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates. Known for her versatile acting skills, she has successfully portrayed diverse characters on screen. With a strong presence in the entertainment industry, Mayssa Maghrebi continues to captivate audiences with her performances and has established herself as a prominent figure in Arab television.

Laila Marrakchi is a Moroccan filmmaker known for her controversial film Marock, which was featured in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2005 Cannes Film Festival. Marrakchi's work often explores themes related to Moroccan society, culture, and class dynamics. She has garnered recognition for her unique storytelling style and bold approach to filmmaking. Marrakchi's films have sparked conversations and debates, making her a prominent figure in the world of cinema both in Morocco and internationally.

Zineb Oukach is a prominent Moroccan film actress and model recognized internationally for her portrayal of Fatima in the 2007 film "Rendition" directed by Gavin Hood. Her professional career highlights a diverse range of performances in various film projects, showcasing her talent and versatility as an actress. With a successful track record in the industry, Zineb Oukach has garnered acclaim for her compelling on-screen presence and ability to captivate audiences with her performances, establishing herself as a respected figure in the world of cinema.

Tayeb Saddiki was a Moroccan theatre director and a pioneering figure in Arab theater. Trained in classical Western theater, he also integrated traditional Moroccan theatrical styles into his work, creating a unique fusion. He was known for staging large-scale spectacles that attracted audiences across the Arab world. Saddiki was an accomplished actor, film director, and award-winning author, writing in both Arabic and French. Throughout his career, he founded multiple theatre companies and cultural centers, leaving a lasting impact on the world of theater.

Fatima Tabaamrant is a prominent Moroccan Amazigh actress and singer-songwriter known for her performances in her native Amazigh language. She has established herself as a respected figure in the music industry, captivating audiences with her powerful vocals and emotive performances. Tabaamrant's career has seen her rise to fame through her unique blend of traditional and contemporary musical styles, earning her a dedicated following both in Morocco and internationally. With a deep connection to her cultural roots, she continues to inspire and entertain fans with her music and acting.