Who – August 24, 2019

(Tina Meador) #1

‘I will


typecast’


not be


RAMI MALEK


A


t 38 years of age, Rami Malek has
won an Oscar for his role as musical
great and Queen front man Freddie
Mercury in Bohemian Rhapsody.
He’s head-over-heels in love with
his actress girlfriend, Lucy Boynton. So, one
would say his stars are aligned, as his personal
and professional lives both appear to be at a
pleasant and exciting stage. However, despite
being at the height of his success – a valid high
indeed – he’s just scored a role in the newest
James Bond franchise – the actor tells WHO
he refuses to be placed in a box creatively.
The Egyptian-born, US citizen reveals all
about the hardships he has faced since
being in the spotlight.

What nationality will your Bond villain be
since you are Egyptian?
That’s something that I discussed with
[Director] Cary Fukunaga, I said: “We cannot
identify him with any act of terrorism
reflecting an ideology or a religion, that’s not
something I would entertain. So, if that is
why I am your choice then you can count me
out.” And that was clearly not his vision.
You’re the face of a successful immigrant
story. How would you advise your younger
self and others who have the same dreams

The man of the moment in


Hollywood opens up about


challenging the status quo


30 l Who
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