About:
Ali Fazal (born 15 October 1986) is an Indian actor known for his work in both Bollywood and Hollywood. He debuted in the English film “The Other End of the Line” (2008) and appeared in the American miniseries “Bollywood Hero” (2009). His first Hindi film role was a supporting part in “3 Idiots” (2009), followed by roles in “Always Kabhi Kabhi” (2011), “Baat Ban Gayi” (2013), and “Bobby Jasoos” (2014).
Fazal gained recognition with his roles in the comedies “Fukrey” (2013), “Happy Bhag Jayegi” (2016), and “Fukrey Returns” (2017). He made his international mark with a cameo in “Furious 7” (2015) and a lead role in “Victoria & Abdul” (2017). He stars in the Amazon Prime Video series “Mirzapur” (2018–present) and appeared in Hollywood films like “Death on the Nile” (2022) and “Kandahar” (2023).
Early Life
Born in Delhi and raised in Lucknow, Fazal attended La Martiniere College and The Doon School, where he discovered his passion for acting. He later graduated in economics from St. Xavier’s College, Mumbai.
Career Beginnings (2008-2011)
Fazal’s early work includes a small role in “The Other End of the Line” and the miniseries “Bollywood Hero”. He was cast in the film “Ek Tho Chance” (2009) and made his Bollywood debut with a role in “3 Idiots”. His performance in “Always Kabhi Kabhi” (2011) received mixed reviews.
Career Progression (2013–Present)
In 2013, Fazal starred in “Fukrey”, gaining mixed critical responses but commercial success. He played dual roles in “Baat Bann Gayi” (2013) and appeared in “Bobby Jasoos” (2014) and “Sonali Cable” (2014). Despite mixed reviews, his performance in “Khamoshiyan” (2015) was appreciated. He had a cameo in “Furious 7” (2015) and starred in “For Here Or To Go?” and the web series “Bang Baaja Baaraat”.
In 2016, he appeared in “Happy Bhag Jayegi” and was praised for his role. He continued with “Fukrey Returns” (2017) and starred in “Victoria & Abdul” (2017), where his portrayal of Abdul Karim was well-received. In 2018, he reprised his role in “Happy Phirr Bhag Jayegi” and starred in “Mirzapur”. He appeared in films like “Milan Talkies” and “Prassthanam” (2019), and “House Arrest” on Netflix.
Recent Work and Personal Life
In 2020, Fazal continued his role in “Mirzapur” season 2 and starred in “Death on the Nile” (2022). He co-founded Pushing Buttons Studios with Richa Chadha in 2021.
A practising Muslim, Fazal performed the Umrah pilgrimage in 2022. He married Richa Chadha in October 2022. He has also been active in social causes, participating in events to raise awareness and funds for cancer and earthquake victims.
Other Activities
Fazal has walked the ramp at fashion events and has been listed among The Times of India’s “Most Desirable Men”. In 2019, he received the “Power Brand: Industry Trendsetter” award at the Bollywood Film Journalist’s Awards.