Riz Ahmed: From breakthrough star to cultural icon
What's the story
Riz Ahmed has become America's cultural icon with his multi-faceted career and impactful contributions. From being an actor, rapper, and activist, Ahmed has made a niche for himself in the entertainment industry. From British TV to Hollywood, his journey is a story of groundbreaking roles and dedication to social issues. Here's how Ahmed's diverse talents and advocacy have made him iconic in American culture.
#1
Breakthrough role in 'Nightcrawler'
Ahmed caught everyone's attention with his role in the movie Nightcrawler. Appearing alongside Jake Gyllenhaal, he played Rick, a character who proved his mettle. This was instrumental in making him a serious actor who could take up challenging roles. The film's success led to more opportunities in Hollywood, and he got to play different characters, which further established his versatility.
#2
Emmy win for 'The Night Of'
Ahmed made history by winning an Emmy Award for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series or Movie for his role in The Night Of. He became the first Muslim and South Asian male actor to win the award. His portrayal of Nasir Khan was widely praised for its depth and authenticity, bringing focus to issues of race and identity within the criminal justice system.
#3
Music career with 'Swet Shop Boys'
Beyond acting, Ahmed is also famous for his music career with hip-hop group Swet Shop Boys. The group's music touches upon the themes of identity, politics, and social justice. Their album struck a chord with audiences who appreciated their candid exploration of the same through music. This foray into music helped Ahmed reach different audiences while still championing important causes.
#4
Advocacy and social impact
Ahmed is unapologetic about using his platform to call out for representation and diversity within the entertainment industry. He speaks candidly about issues impacting marginalized communities and strives to create more inclusive spaces, on-screen and off-screen. His work has initiated conversations around representation in media, motivating others in the industry to demand change.