Mena Massoud's Ethnicity Is Egyptian & He Initially Intended on Becoming a Doctor

Mena Massoud's ethnicity has been a topic of discussion among fans following his impressive acting skills. The 31-year-old actor brings an irresistible charm and captivating talent to the silver screen.

Massoud is a gifted actor of Egyptian heritage. Hailing from Markham, Ontario, Canada, Massoud's journey from a diverse upbringing to becoming a rising star is a testament to his undeniable personality and remarkable acting prowess.

While the actor was born in Cairo, Egypt, Mena Massoud's family relocated to Canada when he was still young. It was there that he discovered in passion for acting, even though he wanted to pursue a different career path.

After graduating from the Ryerson University theater program, Massoud got his breakthrough role in the mystery drama series, "Open Heart," playing Jared Malik. Since then, the rising star has set the screen ablaze with unforgettable performances in several movies and TV series.

From captivating the audience as Aladdin in the live-action remake movie of the same name to leaving fans yearning for more in "Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan." Massoud's most recent role as Prince Thomas in Netflix's romance movie "The Royal Treatment," in which he co-starred with Laura Marano, left fans admiring their on-screen chemistry.

Acting is one of Massoud's many talents. The Egyptian-Canadian actor is also a producer; he has four upcoming projects set for release. Massoud is not only passionate about acting but also passionate about helping struggling artists trying to make it into the industry.

He founded the non-profit organization, Ethnically Diverse Artists Foundation, which focuses on helping ethnically diverse Canadian artists reach their full potential. The foundation aims to inspire diversity and inclusivity in the arts and entertainment industry, enabling young artists to get the opportunities they need to take their careers to the next level.

Mena Massoud's parents wanted him to become a doctor because it was a valuable job in Canada. Plus, his sisters had graduated from the same institution, the faculty of pharmacy.

Mena Massoud Is Egyptian

Mena Massoud's ethnicity is Egyptian. He was born to Mansour and Georgette T and has two sisters, Margaret and Mariam. Before relocating to Canada, Massoud's father worked as an engineer; he revealed during an interview that they moved to Canada with their children in mind.

Mena Massoud's family moved to Canada in December 1995 when the actor was three and a half years old. While Massoud has lived most of his life in Canada, he stated that he remains connected to his culture back home in Egypt.

When Massoud was asked why they moved to Canada during an interview, he revealed his parents wanted a better life for their kids, as the climate in Egypt was different at the time, especially regarding religion, as they are Copic Christian.

Coming from a Muslim-dominated country, the actor said his parents felt it was unsafe for them to live there, so they decided to relocate.

Massoud's parents spotted his acting talent at a young age. While studying at St. Brother André Catholic High School, the actor got to hone his acting skills. During the "Alladin" premiere in Toronto, his former drama teacher who was at the premiere described him as a talented actor who moved audiences with his outstanding performance.

Mena Massoud Was Supposed to Become a Doctor but Chose Acting Instead

Once destined for a medical career, Massoud defied expectations and embarked on a remarkable journey that led him to the captivating world of acting. Choosing to follow his passion, he took a courageous leap, leaving behind the path of a doctor to pursue his dreams.

Massoud's decision to abandon the prospect of a medical career to pursue acting was met with a mixture of surprise and concern from his father. Massoud's father was skeptical when his son told him he wanted to change careers.

At first, his father was disappointed; he had many unanswered questions about why his son wanted to throw away a promising career of becoming a doctor to pursue acting.

Mena Massoud's parents wanted him to become a doctor because it was a valuable job in Canada. Plus, his sisters had graduated from the same institution, the faculty of pharmacy.

So, Massoud enrolled in the University of Toronto, Canada's largest university, to study to become a doctor. After the first year of studying brain surgery, he told his parents he desired to enroll in another university and pursue an acting career.

His decision didn't sit well with his parents, more so his father, who admitted that he disagreed due to the fear of confrontation he would have with other people.

Plus, he had concerns that studying acting would cost him so much money, and after his son graduated, he would compete with people, including some who didn't go to school but were talented in acting. Finally, Mena Massoud's parents agreed to let him go after his dream. He enrolled at Ryerson University to study acting.

As Massoud's father witnessed his son's dedication, talent, and unwavering passion, his initial skepticism gradually transformed into a proud admiration for the bold choice that allowed Massoud to shine on the silver screen.

Massoud has since carved his path with sheer talent and unwavering determination. With his star shining ever brighter, Massoud's future holds limitless possibilities and breathtaking performances yet to come.