Bashar Rahal

Biography

Bashar Rahal, born to a Bulgarian mother and a Lebanese father, discovered his passion for acting at a young age. Moving back to Bulgaria at the age of 6, he embarked on his acting journey by participating in TV sketches and joining a professional theater group called "Tears and Laughs" at just 14 years old. His dedication to the craft led him to take part in various performances, showcasing his talent in works by renowned playwrights such as Shakespeare and Chekhov.

Attending the National Academy of Theater and Film Art, Bashar honed his skills and earned a Masters in Dramatic Arts. His talent and hard work paid off as he became a permanent member of the national youth theatre and a guest actor at The National Theatre Sofia, Bulgaria. With over 25 TV comedy shows under his belt, Bashar gained recognition for his role in the popular TV show "It Can't Be," which earned him the prestigious "Golden Melon" award for best comedy show in Bulgaria.

In 1997, Bashar took on the role of hosting "The Late Night Show" in Sofia, where he not only showcased his comedic prowess but also met his future wife, Kalina Rahal. The couple later made the bold decision to move to California in pursuit of Bashar's acting career. Graduating from the Lee Strasberg Theatre and Film Institute in Los Angeles, Bashar further honed his craft and was granted Alien of Extraordinary Ability status as an actor.

Known for his versatility and talent, Bashar caught the attention of filmmakers Danny Lerner and Les Weldon, who saw his potential for the role of Azamat Bagatov in "Borat: Cultural Learnings of America for Make Benefit Glorious Nation of Kazakhstan." Although initially not considered for Joshua Seftel's "War, Inc.," Bashar's exceptional performance convinced both John Cusack and the director that he was the perfect choice for the part.

After impressing audiences and industry professionals alike with his work in "War, Inc.," Bashar was cast as the lead in Danny Lerner's action film "Direct Contact." His talent continued to shine as he landed the role of Boris in Dominic Sena's "Whiteout," starring alongside Kate Beckinsale. With each role, Bashar Rahal proves himself to be a versatile and skilled actor, leaving a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.