Last month, the Cairo-born actor Amir El-Masry, best known for his outstanding roles in Egyptian films, was announced as the new cast member for The Crown’s fifth season.
As we all guessed, Amir will be playing the role of Egyptian businessman and billionaire Mohamed Al-Fayed, who is the former owner of the department store Harrods, as well as the father of Dodi Fayed, an Egyptian film producer, and Princess Diana’s lover (IRL.)
With Amir El-Masry now being cast on the renowned British show, we got the chance to interview the actor to know his thoughts on his upcoming role.
Scroll ahead to read Amir El-Masry’s interview…
Cosmo ME: It’s always a proud moment when we see an Arab talent being cast in such a global production. How does it make you feel?
Amir El-Masry: I always feel on cloud 9 when I’ve actually been cast in something that I worked immensely hard to get. When it also means something to so many people too, that’s the icing on the cake.
C: Do you think your Arab background has helped you play the role more accurately?
A: Most definitely. Your own personal life experiences inform you about any role you take. I’m grateful for my Arab heritage and growing up in an Egyptian household made me stay close to my roots even when I lived abroad. Much like Al Fayed himself. He proudly presents himself as Egyptian and tries to represent that even in his work.
Photography by Twinkle Stanly
C: What are your hopes for the future of film in the Middle East?
A: We have already seen films from the MENA region successfully shown around the world and screened in cinemas universally. My hopes are that we continue to show the world that we are more than just politics and state of affairs. We are everyday people who love, laugh and live everyday struggles too.
C: How do you feel about the character you are playing? Do you see any resemblance between you two?
A: A determined man. A man with a vision. A man who wears his heart on his sleeve, who loves to laugh despite the pain that he harbours inside of him. These are traits I can certainly relate to. He has a mountain of achievements under his belt which as an immigrant is incredibly inspiring. I’m not quite there yet.
Sneak peak of The Crown season 5 / Netflix
C: Can you give us any details about the most memorable scene you filmed during production?
A: The most memorable scene will come as a surprise, as it is something I am yet to experience in my personal life. But, it’s a moment between father and son. When I did it, it felt electric, not only as it is what essentially starts the present journey but it is naturally the circle of life that keeps generations going.
We are beyond excited about Amir El-Masry’s new role and can’t wait to see how he brings this role to life on The Crown!