The Iconic American Actor You Didn’t Know Is Lebanese
Finding out some of the most iconic Hollywood actors are Lebanese is one of our favorite surprises. And once you know, it suddenly makes perfect sense. Did you know that American actor and comedian Jamie Farr is actually Lebanese?
Born Jameel Joseph Farah on July 1, 1934 in Toledo, Ohio, Farr grew up the son of Lebanese American parents. His dad, Samuel Farah, immigrated from Lebanon’s Beqaa Valley, and his mom, Jamelia, was a first-generation Lebanese American.
Growing up in a tight-knit Lebanese community shaped Farr’s early years, and later, his most famous role that turned from a bit to a series staple.
His biggest role was Corporal Maxwell Q. Klinger in the 1972 sitcom M*A*S*H, a fan-favorite army clerk known for his hilarious cross-dressing attempts to get discharged. Farr brought parts of his own heritage to the role, sprinkling in Lebanese cultural references and humor that made Klinger feel uniquely authentic. This blend of comedy and identity helped Klinger stand out as one of the show’s most memorable characters.
Before M*A*S*H, Farr cut his teeth on stage and the silver screen, appearing in films like Blackboard Jungle (credited as Jameel Farah) and grinding through bit parts until his big break. He later changed his name to Jamie Farr for Hollywood ease and marketability. It was common for actors with to choose names that were considered to be more palatable for white American audiences.
When M*A*S*H debuted in 1972, Farr turned a one-off character into a show mainstay. Beyond TV, Farr’s career spanned game shows, guest appearances, and even theatre. And in 1985, Hollywood gave him a star on the Walk of Fame.
Today, at 91 years old, Farr remains a beloved figure in Hollywood and a proud example of Lebanese roots shining on screen. For more content like this, make sure to check out the #Did You Know? section on our website.
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