The Arab idol who conquered Hollywood.
When it comes to icons from the Arab world making a splash on the global stage, Hiam Abbass is a name that shines brightly. Hiam Abbass is a natural storyteller, with stories embedded deep within her. Growing up in the Palestinian village of Deir Hanna, she was always creating — writing poems, prose, and even trying photography. But her true passion was cinema, a calling so strong that it led her to leave Palestine for Europe in her early twenties. With a career spanning over three decades, Abbass is a symbol of talent, resilience, and cultural pride in the film industry.
On her journey of leaving home and forging a new path, Abbass evolved into the remarkable figure we admire today. From her accomplishments in French cinema to her standout role as Marcia Roy in the popular series Succession, she has portrayed numerous intricate female characters in Arab cinema. Her talent for delving into identity with both elegance and passion has transformed global storytelling, leaving a significant impact on the industry. Now, her daughters, filmmaker Lina Soualem and actress Mouna Soualem, are walking alongside her in this creative venture.
Buckle up, as we take a delightful journey through the life and achievements of this extraordinary actress and director, whose voyage from a small Palestinian village to the glittering lights of Hollywood is truly remarkable.
Born on November 30, 1960, in Nazareth, Hiam Abbass grew up in a Palestinian Arab family. Her early life was rich with cultural heritage and the complex history of her homeland, deeply influencing her work. Despite the challenges of growing up in a politically charged environment, Abbass found solace in the arts. Starting in theatre, she crafted performances brimming with emotional depth and a profound understanding of the human experience.
Hiam made her film debut in the early 1980s, but it was her role in the 2002 film Rana’s Wedding that put her on the international radar. Playing a mother navigating the chaos of East Jerusalem, she delivered a raw and powerful performance that captivated critics and opened doors to greater opportunities.
Her big break in Hollywood came with the Oscar-nominated film The Visitor in 2007. In it, she portrayed Mouna Khalil, a Syrian woman whose story intertwines with the film’s lead in a touching and profound way. This role showcased her talent to a global audience and earned her the recognition she deserved in the American film industry.
Abbass didn’t stop there. She continued to deliver stellar performances in films like The Lemon Tree (2008), where she played a Palestinian widow fighting to keep her lemon grove. This role earned her several awards and cemented her reputation as an actress who could capture hearts worldwide. Her ability to portray strong, resilient women caught in the throes of political and social turmoil resonated deeply with audiences.
But Abbass isn’t just an actress; she’s also a talented director. In 2012, she made her directorial debut with Inheritance, a moving drama about a Palestinian family coping with the death of its patriarch. The film received warm reviews and highlighted her ability to tell compelling stories from behind the camera. Her journey from acting to directing demonstrated her versatility and deep commitment to the art of storytelling.
She commanded attention in the critically acclaimed series Succession, where she plays Marcia Roy, the mysterious and shrewd wife of media mogul Logan Roy. Her portrayal has been widely praised, adding another impressive chapter to her illustrious career. In addition to Succession, she has captivated audiences in the Hulu comedy series Ramy, where her performance as Maysa Hassan showcases her range and depth as an actress.
Fluent in Arabic, Hebrew, French, and English, Hiam Abbass is a multilingual marvel, which has allowed her to work in a variety of international films. Despite often playing serious roles, she’s known for her great sense of humour and vibrant personality, bringing a delightful energy to interviews and public appearances. This blend of gravitas and charm makes her a beloved figure both on and off the screen.
Abbass’s journey is not just about professional success. She has faced deeply personal challenges, particularly highlighted in her daughter Lina Soualem’s documentary, Bye Bye Tiberias. In this film, Abbass steps out from behind her roles to reveal her true self, reflecting on her chosen exile from Palestine and the influences of the women in her family. Filming this documentary with her daughter was a transformative experience, forcing Abbass to confront and share her personal story in ways she had never done before.
For the first time in her life, Abbass found herself uncomfortable in front of a camera, not as a character but as herself. Her daughter, Lina, wanted her to open up and reflect on her chosen exile and the ways the women in their family had shaped her life. Initially, Abbass found it challenging to be so vulnerable and honest on camera, but eventually, she decided to trust Lina and share her true feelings.
Bye Bye Tiberias premiered at the Venice International Film Festival and has won awards at the BFI London Film Festival and Festival Cinemed in Montpellier. The documentary provided a platform for Abbass to discuss her childhood in Deir Hanna, where she struggled to express her artistic side and dealt with the pressure of a politically charged environment. The film also highlights the impact of the Nakba on her family, with relatives scattered across the Middle East and some, like her maternal aunt Hosnieh, unable to return to Palestine.
In her early twenties, seeking freedom from the constraints of her environment, Abbass left Deir Hanna for Europe. She settled in Paris, married French actor Zinedine Soualem, and had two daughters, Lina and Mouna, who have both followed her into the film industry. Abbass’s journey to becoming an actress was gradual and deliberate, savouring each step without rushing. Her career developed naturally, reflecting her authentic approach to life and art.
Her first films, Rashid Masharawi’s Haifa and Cédric Klapisch’s When the Cat’s Away, were released in 1996. However, it was Raja Amari’s Satin Rouge in 2002 that marked a pivotal moment in her career. Her portrayal of a Tunisian widow who becomes a cabaret dancer was a bold choice that solidified her commitment to acting.
Abbass has since starred in notable films such as Steven Spielberg’s Munich and Denis Villeneuve’s Blade Runner 2049, and has gained international acclaim for her roles in Succession and Ramy. Despite her worldwide fame, much of her work remains centred on Arab cinema, reflecting her dedication to representing her culture.
Every offer from Palestine has been important to her, and she continues to work on projects that highlight Palestinian stories. With Succession ending and Ramy likely to conclude after its fourth season, Abbass is looking forward to future collaborations, particularly with Ramy Youssef. She is passionate about creating projects that blend her Palestinian heritage with her experiences in the Western world, aiming to create a unique cinematic identity that bridges cultures.
Bye Bye Tiberias is a testament to Abbass’ commitment to preserving her family’s legacy and the collective memory of Palestinian women. The film immortalizes their struggles and resilience, offering a deeply personal look into Abbass’ life and heritage. It captures the essence of her grandmother’s influence and the enduring strength passed down through generations.
Hiam Abbass is not just an actress; she’s a trailblazer, a storyteller, and an advocate for cultural representation and diversity in cinema. Her journey from a Palestinian village to the red carpets of Hollywood is a testament to her incredible talent and unwavering determination. Whether on screen or behind the camera, Abbass is an inspiring figure who continues to break barriers and tell important stories.
