– December 2023
From the charming cobblestone streets of Beirut to the vibrant tapestry of Cairo’s cultural landscape, and ultimately, the glittering allure of Hollywood, Nicolas Mouawad’s acting odyssey spans the globe, delving into the diverse narratives of different continents. It’s more than just a tale of success; it’s a beautifully woven fabric, with each thread infused with emotion, culture, and the enchanting magic of storytelling. In an exclusive and heartfelt conversation, eniGma’s Farida Elserty sat down with the talented actor to discuss his journey to the top, the transformative impact fatherhood had on him, and the dreams that illuminate the next chapter of his life.
Amid a hectic schedule, shooting tirelessly throughout the week with no breaks, we strategically arranged our interview at our Zamalek office. Currently filming his new series, El Hashashin (Order of Assassins), alongside Karim Abdel Aziz, Mouawad gears up for the Ramadan spotlight. It’s a reunion five years in the making since eniGma magazine last caught up with Mouawad, and in that span, he has seamlessly transitioned from a promising face in the Egyptian film scene to a leading star in the United States box office.
For this interview, I momentarily set aside the formalities of professional journalism. Armed with two cups of coffee – one for myself and one for Mouawad – we began our conversation. In no time, we had covered everything from how my mother and I were fans of his popular TV series, Sabe’ Gar (The 7th Neighbour), to his fear of birds and the projects he’s currently working on. The ambience was relaxed, and Mouawad’s magnetic presence effortlessly filled the room.
It was evident that, along with his striking looks and incredible talent, he possesses a genuine and down-to-earth soul that deeply resonates with everyone he meets. As the coffee filled the air with its inviting aroma, it reflected the friendly warmth of an interview ready to uncover not just the actor but also the person behind the on-screen charm.
Having had a remarkable year filled with achievements, Mouawad reflects on his journey and shares insights into his craft, dreams, and the challenges he has overcome. From humble beginnings to soaring heights, his story serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors and a testament to the power of perseverance and dedication.
Born and raised in Lebanon, Mouawad’s early years were marked by the challenges of the Lebanese war at that time, making him somewhat introverted. Reflecting on his upbringing, he says, “My childhood wasn’t easy, but it was only made good by the unwavering support of my family, who surrounded me with love and care. Home became my only sanctuary where I felt safe,” he recalls with a hint of sadness in his voice.
Mouawad’s love for acting didn’t spark in his early years due to his shyness. Surprisingly, he wasn’t a big fan of acting; his heart leaned towards directing, but pursuing it wasn’t a viable option in Lebanon back then. He opted for Civil Engineering at the Lebanese University, excelling in high school and securing the top position in his government’s Thanawya Amma. “Studying engineering helped me become more logical in life as an actor, and I am happy for that,” he asserts.
However, his dream of becoming a director lingered, leading him to pursue a second degree in acting, and graduating from film school in Beirut in 2003. Choosing acting over directing was more a matter of practicality than preference – the former came with free tuition, sparing him from having to discuss it with his parents. Yet, during the entrance exam, something magical happened. “I had to perform a monologue from Shakespeare’s Richard III, and while doing it in front of the jury, I felt an amazing pleasure. That’s when I realised that I genuinely love acting more than anything,” he passionately shares. Engaging in university plays and local theatre productions, Mouawad’s talent began to blossom, hinting at the promising career that awaited him.
Mouawad’s talent and unwavering dedication quickly drew the attention of industry professionals, leading him into the realm of serious stage acting in Lebanon from 2002 to 2006. It was during this period that the late Marwan Naggar, a prominent Lebanese producer and writer, handpicked him for a pivotal role in the television series Helm Azar (March Dreams), co-starring with Rita Hayek. This foray into Lebanese television could well have been the reason that paved the way for his breakthrough in the film industry.
Continuing to captivate audiences, Mouawad expanded his repertoire with a series of notable TV productions. His credits include Ruby in 2012, Leabet El Mot (Game of Death) in 2013, Yasmina, Wajaa’ El Roh (The Soul’s Pain) in 2014, and his debut in an Egyptian TV series that aired during Ramadan 2016, Wannous, alongside the legendary Yehiya El Fakharany. Since then, he has consistently carved out a niche for himself in various Egyptian television series. Reflecting on his unexpected selection for his first Egyptian role as Sheikh Farouk, the preacher in Wannous, Mouawad recounts, “Shady El Fakharani, the director, was seeking a unique approach for the sheikh, and Mahmoud Karim, an assistant director at the time, forwarded my showreel to him. Initially apprehensive, especially given the complexity of the role and its difference from the typical Egyptian character, as it was my first role in Egyptian-Arabic, it presented a challenging yet exhilarating opportunity.”
Following Wannous, Mouawad was selected to participate in the final season of the romantic comedy Heba Regl El Ghorab (the Arabic version of Ugly Betty) before truly capturing the attention of the immensely popular social drama TV series, Sabe’ Gar (The 7th Neighbour). This series resonated with Egyptian viewers by portraying the daily challenges of several middle-class families. Mouawad portrayed Tarek, a sweet young husband who is neglected by his wife and eventually becomes entangled in an extramarital affair. “I believe that Sabe’ Gar was a turning point in modern Egyptian drama,” he asserts.
Among the many characters Mouawad has brought to life in his career, Tarek stands out as a profoundly personal connection. The character’s depth and complexity allowed him to draw from his own experiences and emotions, fostering a profound bond between the actor and the role. “Even after five years of the series ending, I still miss Tarek,” he admits with a nostalgic tone.
After his role in Sabe’ Gar, Mouawad became part of numerous successful TV shows and movies in Lebanon and Egypt. His credits include Hajar Gohanam (Hell Stone), Al-Hob Al-Haqiqy (True Love), and Tela’at Rohy (I Dropped Dead), all of which received widespread positive feedback. Mouawad also made notable contributions to projects such as Amr Waqea (Matter of Fact), Tashwesh (Noise), Bella Dalel (Without Evidence), Kheet Hareer (Silk Thread), Al-Awdah (Homecoming), Ala Al Hilwa Wa Al Morra (Through Thick and Thin), Mako, Three Thousand Years of Longing, which participated in the 75th Cannes Film Festival and was directed by Oscar-winner director George Miller, starring Idris Elba and Tilda Swinton, and his most recent work, Al Thaman (The Price), alongside Bassel Khayat and Razanne Jammal. “In Al Thaman, playing the role of Karam, one of the villainous characters, I found myself sympathising with him, drawn to the depth and tragedies in his life,” he reflects.
This year, Mouawad continues to break barriers and captivate audiences, casting a radiant light on the world of acting through his exceptional talent and unwavering dedication to his craft. Finally, he made a successful debut in a US production, securing the role of the prophet Abraham from among 1,700 candidates of various nationalities in the critically acclaimed His Only Son, directed and written by David Helling. “One of the proudest moments of my life was when His Only Son reached the third spot in the United States box office this year,” he says with pride.
Throughout his career, Mouawad faced numerous challenges, each of which has helped him grow and evolve as an actor. His Only Son, in particular, tested his limits and pushed him to new heights. With perseverance and determination, Mouawad conquered these challenges, emerging stronger and solidifying his reputation as a formidable talent. “This character was particularly challenging due to the immense responsibility it carried. I was eager to preserve his religious status while making people feel he is relatable and close to them,” he shares. And in recognition of his outstanding performances throughout the year, Mouawad was honoured with the prestigious Murex D’or 2023 award.
Having worked in both the American and Arab filmmaking industries, Mouawad has firsthand experience of the stark differences between the two. While Hollywood is known for its professionalism, treating everyone equally and without favouritism, the Arab film industry carries an undeniable charm and authenticity. However, regardless of the setting, Mouawad’s unwavering commitment to his craft remains unchanged. He consistently delivers powerful performances that transcend borders, showcasing his exceptional talent and passion for acting.
When asked about the best thing about being an actor, Mouawad’s answer was as clear as his personality. For him, it is the ability to step into the shoes of different characters, to explore their depths, and to bring their stories to life. “The greatest aspect of being an actor, for me, is the ability to embody a million personas. Through my roles, I can address various issues and meet people I might never encounter if it weren’t for my career,” he shares. Acting lets him step beyond his own experiences, forging connections with a wide spectrum of emotions and fostering a richer understanding of the human experience.
While Mouawad’s focus has primarily been on acting, he remains open to exploring other facets of the industry, such as writing and directing – his first love. These roles offer new avenues for creative expression and provide opportunities to shape narratives and bring meaningful stories to life. However, his passion for acting remains at the core of his artistic journey, and he continues to seek roles that challenge and inspire him.
As we concluded our conversation, the focus naturally shifted to Nicolas Mouawad’s personal life and his newfound role as a father. Reflecting on how fatherhood has impacted him, Mouawad shares that being a dad heightened his sense of responsibility towards himself. Nevertheless, juggling personal and professional responsibilities remains a challenge for any actor, and Mouawad is no exception. Recognising the significance of maintaining balance in his life as a spouse and parent, he emphasises the importance of careful time management, open communication, and unwavering support from loved ones. While he acknowledges the difficulty in achieving perfect balance, Mouawad offers a piece of advice for those facing similar struggles: “Try your best to take time off for yourself and your family. Always make room for activities that bring joy and fulfilment,” he suggests.
As our conversation delved into these aspects of life, I couldn’t help but appreciate Mouawad’s emotional and kind nature. Curiosity led me to seek more personal insights, believing they might resonate with others. I asked him about the most crucial lesson he’s learned in his career and the best advice he’s received. Mouawad candidly shared that the paramount lesson is “staying true to oneself while acting and embracing the immersion in your work without fear, as people can recognise authenticity.” He further revealed the invaluable advice bestowed upon him by the esteemed Dr. Yehia El Fakhrany, who advised him to “feel a bit anxious when you stop feeling anxious.”
Mouawad goes beyond the boundaries of his craft; he is not merely an actor but a passionate advocate for social causes. In moments of adversity and unrest, he uses his platform to speak up for the voices of those facing hardships, notably shedding light on the struggle of the Palestinian people, both nowadays and throughout the years. According to Mouawad, actors and influential figures bear a responsibility to harness their impact, steering conversations toward vital societal issues. While acting remains his core pursuit, Mouawad acknowledges that the role of an actor extends far beyond the confines of the stage and screen. “I don’t understand or get why people with influence don’t use their platforms for good to help others,” he says.
After a bit of a detour, we had to dive back into the conversation about his career, somewhat reluctantly, but that’s the nature of work life. Looking ahead, Mouawad has a clear vision of the directors he’d love to team up with, harbouring big dreams that go beyond borders, involving both experienced pros and rising stars. “I’d love to collaborate with many creatives in the field, but I’ve always had my eye on Marwan Hamed and Tamer Mohsen, and to repeat the experience with the directors from Sabe’ Gar,” he shares. He’s drawn to those who bring a unique artistic flair, a love for telling stories, and a dedication to pushing the limits.
For the next stage of his professional life, Mouawad’s goals and dreams are ambitious yet grounded. He’s keen on challenging himself by taking on interesting and complex roles that highlight his skills as an actor. “It might sound odd, but I don’t have a dream project. My ultimate goal is to maintain the same level of passion I have now for every project,” he reveals. Additionally, he has a personal ambition to direct and write a film in the next phase of his life.
As for his current projects, Mouawad is buzzing with excitement and happiness. He is currently shooting the eagerly awaited series, El Hashashen (Order of Assassins), where he features the character of Omar El Khayam. The series is directed by Peter Mimi and produced by Senergy, featuring a stellar cast that includes Karim Abdel Aziz, Fathy Abdel Wahab, and several other prominent stars.
Enigma Questionnaire
Do you prefer working in film or television?
I’m a cinema enthusiast. Always.
What is the best advice someone has given you?
“Be anxious when you stop being anxious.”
What is something that fans might be surprised to learn about you?
I have a fear of birds.
Do you prefer sunsets or sunrises?
Sunrises, without a doubt!
Who are the directors you want to work with?
Marwan Hamed, Tamer Mohsen, and the directors from Sabe’ Gar.
What is your ultimate goal?
To maintain the same level of passion I have now for every project.
Who is the villainous character you portrayed and sympathised?
Karam in Al-Thaman (The Price).
Do you believe that actors should use their platforms to address societal issues?
Absolutely. It’s the responsibility of anyone with influence.
How has fatherhood changed you?
I’ve become more responsible for myself.
PHOTOGRAPHY BY Erman Istahli
STYLING BY Başak Dizer
PUBLICIST Samar Yassin
Hair & Makeup by Murat Akbulut
Assistant Photography: Bedirhan Topçu
Assistant Styling: Damla Yılmaz
Assistant Hair & Makeup: Gökhan Sever