Fares Fares is a celebrated Lebanese-Swedish actor, producer, and director whose career spans over two decades across European cinema, Hollywood blockbusters, and critically acclaimed television. Known for his intense screen presence and cultural depth, he has become a powerful voice in global entertainment.
Quick Bio
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Fares Fares |
| Date of Birth | April 29, 1973 |
| Birthplace | Beirut, Lebanon |
| Nationality | Lebanese-Swedish |
| Profession | Actor, Director, Producer |
| Years Active | 2000–present |
| Height | 6 ft 1 in (1.86 m) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Brown |
| Spouse | Clara Hallencreutz (m. 2020) |
| Children | Ziggy (b. 2019), Tino (b. 2021) |
| Known For | Chernobyl, The Wheel of Time, The Nile Hilton Incident |
Early Life and Family Background
Born on April 29, 1973, in Beirut, Lebanon, Fares Fares grew up in an Assyrian Christian family during the height of the Lebanese Civil War. His parents, Jan and Mariam Fares, made the difficult decision to flee the conflict and relocate to Örebro, Sweden in 1987 when Fares was just 14. The move marked a turning point in his life, introducing him to a new culture and language.
He quickly adapted, learning Swedish within three months, and began exploring theater at age 15. His brother, Josef Fares, would later become a renowned film director, and their creative synergy would shape both of their careers.
Education and Artistic Foundations
Fares joined a local theater group in Örebro and discovered a passion for performance. At 19, he enrolled in the Mölnlycke Theater School near Gothenburg, where he studied drama and honed his craft. He spent six formative years performing at Teater Tamauer, immersing himself in Swedish stage productions and developing a reputation for emotional range and authenticity.
This foundation in live theater gave him the tools to transition seamlessly into film and television, where his expressive style and commanding presence would shine.
Career Beginnings
Fares Fares made his film debut in Jalla! Jalla! (2000), a comedy directed by his brother Josef Fares. The film was a breakout hit in Sweden and showcased Fares’ ability to blend humor with heartfelt storytelling. He followed this with Kopps (2003) and Bang Bang Orangutang (2005), further establishing himself as a versatile actor in Swedish cinema.
His early work was marked by a unique ability to navigate both comedic and dramatic roles, earning him recognition as one of Sweden’s most promising talents.
Breakthrough and International Recognition
Fares’ international breakthrough came in Safe House (2012), where he starred alongside Denzel Washington. This Hollywood debut opened doors to major roles in Zero Dark Thirty, Child 44, and Rogue One: A Star Wars Story, where he played Senator Vaspar. His performance in The Keeper of Lost Causes (2013) and subsequent Department Q films earned him critical acclaim and a loyal fan base across Scandinavia.
His ability to portray complex characters in politically charged narratives made him a sought-after actor in both European and American productions.
Television Career Highlights
On television, Fares Fares has delivered standout performances in Tyrant (FX), Westworld (HBO), and the Emmy-winning miniseries Chernobyl. His portrayal of Ishamael in The Wheel of Time (Amazon Prime) introduced him to a new generation of fantasy fans. He also appeared in The Decameron (Netflix) and We Come In Peace (TV4), showcasing his range across genres and platforms.
His television work reflects a commitment to storytelling that is both visually compelling and emotionally resonant.
Directorial and Production Work
In addition to acting, Fares Fares has made significant contributions behind the camera. He produced the miniseries Partisan (2020) and made his directorial debut with A Day and a Half (2023), a Netflix film inspired by real events. His collaborations with Tarik Saleh on films like The Nile Hilton Incident, Boy from Heaven, and Eagles of the Republic have been praised for their political depth and cinematic intensity.
These projects highlight his evolution into a multifaceted storyteller with a keen eye for social commentary.
Age and Physical Appearance
As of 2025, Fares Fares is 52 years old. He stands at 6 ft 1 in (1.86 m) and weighs approximately 68 kg (150 lbs). With brown eyes, brown hair, and an athletic build, he is known for his intense screen presence and expressive features. His physicality allows him to embody a wide range of roles, from stoic detectives to conflicted antiheroes.
His appearance complements his acting style—grounded, powerful, and deeply human.
Personal Life and Relationships
Fares married Clara Hallencreutz, a Swedish artist, in 2020. The couple has two children: Ziggy, born in 2019, and Tino, born in 2021. They split their time between Stockholm and Los Angeles, balancing family life with international careers. Fares often shares glimpses of his personal life on social media, offering fans a window into his world beyond the screen.
His relationship with Clara reflects a partnership rooted in creativity, support, and shared values.
Cultural Identity and Heritage
Proud of his Lebanese-Swedish and Assyrian Christian heritage, Fares Fares embraces his multicultural identity both personally and professionally. Fluent in Arabic and Swedish, he often advocates for diversity and immigrant representation in media. His roles frequently explore themes of displacement, identity, and resilience, drawing from his own experiences as a refugee.
His cultural background enriches his performances, adding layers of authenticity and empathy.
Awards and Recognition
Fares has received numerous accolades, including the Guldbagge Award for Best Actor for The Nile Hilton Incident and Robert Awards for his work in the Department Q series. He was honored at the Peñíscola Comedy Film Festival for Kopps and received the Chicago International Film Festival Best Ensemble Acting Award for Day and Night.
These honors reflect his dedication to craft and impact on international cinema.
Net Worth and Public Presence
With an estimated net worth of $4 million, Fares Fares has built a successful career through acting, directing, and producing. He remains active on Instagram (@iamfaresfares) and Facebook, engaging with fans and sharing insights into his work and family life. His public presence is marked by humility, thoughtfulness, and a genuine connection to his audience.
He uses his platform not only to promote projects but also to advocate for causes close to his heart.
Interesting Facts and Trivia
- Learned Danish in two months for his role in Department Q films.
- Voiced Leo Caruso in video games A Way Out and It Takes Two, directed by his brother Josef Fares.
- Appeared in Lykke Li music videos and commercials for Volvo and Tanqueray.
- Performed in Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot at Teater Tamauer.
These facts reveal a man who is curious, versatile, and deeply committed to his craft.
Conclusion
Fares Fares has journeyed from a teenage refugee in Sweden to an internationally acclaimed actor and filmmaker. His story is one of resilience, talent, and cultural pride. Whether on stage, screen, or behind the camera, he continues to challenge narratives, elevate voices, and inspire audiences around the world.
FAQs
Who is Fares Fares?
Fares Fares is a Lebanese-Swedish actor, director, and producer known for his roles in Chernobyl, The Wheel of Time, and The Nile Hilton Incident.
How old is Fares Fares?
Born on April 29, 1973, he is 52 years old as of 2025 and originally from Beirut, Lebanon.
What are Fares Fares’ most famous roles?
He gained international recognition for Zero Dark Thirty, Safe House, and the Department Q film series, where he played Assad.
Is Fares Fares married?
Yes, he married Swedish artist Clara Hallencreutz in 2020. They have two children and live between Stockholm and Los Angeles.
What is Fares Fares’ height and appearance?
He stands at 6 ft 1 in (1.86 m), with brown eyes, brown hair, and an athletic build known for his intense screen presence.
What languages does Fares Fares speak?
He is fluent in Arabic, Swedish, and English, and even learned Danish for his role in the Department Q films.
What is Fares Fares’ net worth?
His estimated net worth is around $4 million, earned through acting, directing, and producing international film and TV projects.
Has Fares Fares won any awards?
Yes, he won the Guldbagge Award for Best Actor and multiple Robert Awards for his performances in Scandinavian cinema.
What are some fun facts about Fares Fares?
He voiced Leo Caruso in the video games A Way Out and It Takes Two, and appeared in music videos for Lykke Li3.
Is Fares Fares active on social media?
Yes, he shares updates and behind-the-scenes moments on Instagram (@iamfaresfares), engaging with fans worldwide
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