# Omar Sharif

> Egyptian actor (1932–2015)

**Wikidata**: [Q170515](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q170515)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Omar_Sharif)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/omar-sharif

## Summary

Omar Sharif was born on April 10, 1932, in Alexandria [1][2][3][4][5][6][7][8][9][10]. His native language was Arabic , and he practiced the religion of Islam . His father was Joseph Chalhoub [11]. He received his education at Victoria College and Cairo University .Sharif worked as an actor, film actor, writer, non-fiction writer, television actor, and bridge player . His professional fields included acting, contract bridge, and film [12], and he worked in the Western genre . His notable works include Doctor Zhivago and Lawrence of Arabia . He received the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement, César Award for Best Actor, Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Motion Picture Drama, Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture, and Golden Globe Award for New Star of the Year – Actor .He was married to Faten Hamama from 1955 to 1974 [13]. Sharif died on July 10, 2015, at Behman Hospital [14][1][2][4][5][6][7][8][10][15]. The cause of his death was myocardial infarction [16].

## Summary
Omar Sharif was an Egyptian actor renowned for his international film career and iconic roles in *Lawrence of Arabia* (1962) and *Doctor Zhivago* (1965). He became a global star and cultural ambassador, representing both Arab and cinematic excellence on the world stage.

## Biography
- Born: April 10, 1932, Alexandria, Egypt  
- Nationality: Egypt  
- Education: Attended Victoria College; studied at Cairo University (Faculty of Arts)  
- Known for: Starring in *Lawrence of Arabia* and *Doctor Zhivago*, and for his international film stardom  
- Employer(s): Independent film and television actor; worked with major studios internationally  
- Field(s): Acting, film, television, non-fiction writing  

## Contributions
Omar Sharif made significant contributions to global cinema through his memorable performances and public persona:
- **Film Career**: Starred in *Lawrence of Arabia* (1962), *Doctor Zhivago* (1965), and *The Night of the Generals* (1967), establishing himself as a leading international film figure.
- **Cultural Representation**: Broke barriers as a Middle Eastern actor in Western cinema, becoming a symbol of cross-cultural cinematic excellence.
- **Writing**: Authored several non-fiction works, including autobiographical and bridge-related publications, contributing to literary and recreational culture.
- **Television and Stage**: Expanded his influence into television and stage acting, maintaining a high-profile presence in global entertainment.

## FAQs
### What is Omar Sharif most known for?
Omar Sharif is most known for his starring roles in *Lawrence of Arabia* (1962) and *Doctor Zhivago* (1965), which established him as a global film icon. These performances made him one of the most recognizable Arab actors in cinema history.

### Where did Omar Sharif receive his education?
Sharif was educated at Victoria College in Alexandria and later attended Cairo University, where he studied at the Faculty of Arts.

### What were Omar Sharif’s major film roles?
His most notable roles include T.E. Lawrence's companion in *Lawrence of Arabia*, the romantic lead in *Doctor Zhivago*, and General Tanz in *The Night of the Generals*. These roles defined his international stardom.

### Did Omar Sharif win any major awards?
Yes, he received several honors, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Supporting Actor for *Lawrence of Arabia*, and a César Award for Best Actor for *Monsieur Ibrahim* (2003).

### Was Omar Sharif involved in anything beyond film?
Yes, he was also a published writer, focusing on non-fiction, and an avid player of contract bridge, even competing in international tournaments.

## Why They Matter
Omar Sharif's impact on global cinema and cultural representation is profound. As a pioneering Arab actor in Hollywood and European film, he challenged Western stereotypes and opened doors for Middle Eastern performers. His performances in landmark films like *Lawrence of Arabia* and *Doctor Zhivago* influenced generations of filmmakers and actors. Beyond cinema, his literary contributions and public engagement with bridge elevated his status as a global intellectual and cultural figure. His legacy continues to inspire Arab and international artists alike.

## Notable For
- Starred in the Academy Award-winning *Lawrence of Arabia* (1962)  
- Lead role in the Academy Award-winning *Doctor Zhivago* (1965)  
- Golden Globe winner for *The Night of the Generals* (1967)  
- Recipient of the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at the Venice Film Festival (1995)  
- Renowned for multilingual acting across film industries (Hollywood, European, and Arab)  
- Published author of non-fiction works including *Omar Sharif: My Name is Omar* (1995)  
- International contract bridge champion and columnist  
- First Arab actor to achieve global stardom in Western cinema  
- Represented Arab culture on the global stage during the mid-20th century  

## Body

### Early Life and Education
Omar Sharif was born Michel Yusef Dimitri Chalhoub on April 10, 1932, in Alexandria, Egypt. He was raised in a Melkite Catholic family and educated at Victoria College in Alexandria, a prestigious institution affiliated with the Greek-Melkite community. He later attended Cairo University, where he pursued a degree in the Faculty of Arts, majoring in mathematics and physics. His early life was steeped in both academic rigor and cultural exposure, which would later influence his intellectual and artistic pursuits.

### Career in Film
Sharif's film career began in the Egyptian cinema industry, where he initially worked in Arabic-language films. His international breakthrough came with David Lean's *Lawrence of Arabia* (1962), where he played Sherif Ali, earning him a Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor. This role catapulted him into global stardom. He followed with the lead role of Yuri Zhivago in *Doctor Zhivago* (1965), a performance that further solidified his international fame. His third major film role, General Tanz in *The Night of the Generals* (1967), continued his legacy of portraying complex historical figures.

### Contributions to Literature and Writing
Beyond acting, Sharif was a published author. His non-fiction works include *Omar Sharif: My Name is Omar* (1995), a memoir that reflects on his life and career. He also wrote columns on cinema and bridge, contributing to cultural discourse in both the arts and leisure domains.

### Television and Stage Roles
Sharif expanded his career into television and stage acting, appearing in various international productions. His performances were noted for their emotional depth and multilingual fluency, allowing him to work across French, English, and Arabic productions. His television roles included appearances in miniseries and dramas that reached global audiences.

### International Recognition and Awards
Sharif received numerous accolades during his career:
- **Golden Globe for Best Supporting Actor – Motion Picture** (1963) for *Lawrence of Arabia*
- **Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement** (1995) from the Venice International Film Festival
- **César Award for Best Actor** (2003) for *Monsieur Ibrahim*
These awards underscored his global impact and recognition in film.

### Cultural Impact and Representation
As one of the first Arab actors to achieve international fame, Sharif played a pivotal role in shaping the image of Middle Eastern culture in global cinema. His performances humanized Arab identities in Western narratives, influencing a generation of filmmakers and actors. His work also opened doors for future Arab talent in international film markets.

### Personal Interests and Hobbies
Sharif was an accomplished player of contract bridge, competing in international tournaments and writing books on the game. His passion for the game was both recreational and professional, and he was widely respected in the bridge-playing community for his expertise.

### Legacy and Influence
Omar Sharif's legacy is multifaceted. He is remembered not only for his cinematic achievements but also for his cultural contributions. His influence spans film, literature, and games, making him a renaissance figure in the arts. His work continues to inspire global audiences and aspiring actors, particularly in the Arab world, where he remains a symbol of pride and excellence.

### Death and Final Years
Omar Sharif passed away on July 10, 2015, in Cairo, Egypt, after a long illness. His death was mourned globally, with tributes from film industries, fans, and cultural institutions. He was buried in Cairo, leaving behind a legacy that transcended cinema and influenced global cultural narratives.

### Personal Life and Identity
Sharif's identity was deeply tied to his Egyptian roots and international fame. He was fluent in multiple languages, including Arabic, French, and English, which allowed him to work across global markets. His personal life included high-profile friendships and associations with major cultural and political figures, further cementing his role as a global citizen.

### Filmography Highlights
- *Lawrence of Arabia* (1962) – Sherif Ali  
- *Doctor Zhivago* (1965) – Yuri Zhivago  
- *The Night of the Generals* (1967) – General Tanz  
- *Monsieur Ibrahim* (2003) – Monsieur Ibrahim  
These roles defined his career and cultural impact.

### Representation in Media and Awards
Sharif was frequently featured in international film festivals and award ceremonies. His presence at events like the Venice Film Festival and Golden Globe ceremonies elevated his public profile. He was also honored with retrospectives and film festivals celebrating his contributions to cinema.

### Public Engagement and Philanthropy
Throughout his life, Sharif was involved in charitable activities and youth engagement programs. He supported educational and cultural initiatives in Egypt and beyond, using his platform to promote literacy, cinema, and the arts. His public speaking engagements and interviews often highlighted the importance of cultural understanding and artistic excellence.

### Conclusion
Omar Sharif’s life and career remain a testament to the power of art and culture to transcend borders. His influence continues to resonate in global cinema, literature, and intellectual pursuits. As a cultural icon, he remains a symbol of excellence, dignity, and cross-cultural dialogue.

## References

1. Integrated Authority File
2. BnF authorities
3. Dictionary of African Biography
4. Genealogics
5. [فاتن حمامة وعمر الشريف: الحبّ من أوّل قبلة!](https://ellearabia.com/%D9%87%D8%B0%D9%87-%D9%82%D8%B5%D9%91%D8%AA%D9%8A/%D9%81%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%86-%D8%AD%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%85%D8%A9-%D9%88%D8%B9%D9%85%D8%B1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%B1%D9%8A%D9%81-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AD%D8%A8%D9%91-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%A3%D9%88%D9%91%D9%84-%D9%82%D8%A8)
6. Czech National Authority Database
7. [Source](https://www.latimes.com/entertainment/movies/la-et-omar-sharif-archives-20150710-story.html)
8. Bibliothèque nationale de France
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10. [Source](https://www.youm7.com/story/2015/7/10/وكيل-أعمال-عمر-الشريف-الفنان-العالمى-توفى-بسبب-أزمة-قلبية/2260204)
11. Encyclopædia Britannica Online
12. SNAC
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15. filmportal.de
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17. Croatian Encyclopedia
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19. [Omar Sharif: Lawrence of Arabia star dies aged 83](http://www.bbc.com/news/entertainment-arts-33483877)
20. Who's Who in France
21. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
22. Virtual International Authority File
23. [عمر الشريف مصاب بـ"ألزهايمر".. ويسأل عن فاتن حمامة](https://www.alarabiya.net/ar/culture-and-art/2015/05/24/%D8%B9%D9%85%D8%B1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B4%D8%B1%D9%8A%D9%81-%D9%85%D8%B5%D8%A7%D8%A8-%D8%A8%D8%A3%D9%84%D8%B2%D9%87%D8%A7%D9%8A%D9%85%D8%B1-%D9%88%D9%8A%D8%B3%D8%A3%D9%84-%D8%B9%D9%86-%D9%81%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%86-%D8%AD%D9%85%D8%A7%D9%85%D8%A9)
24. Sharif, Omar. BnF authorities
25. BBC Things
26. The Movie Database
27. Cinemathèque québécoise Linked Open Data
28. performing-arts.ch