Studied mathematics and physics in college, then worked for his family's lumber business after graduating
Began acting in Egyptian movies in 1954; costarred with wife Faten Hamama in several films
Became an international star after appearing in his first English-language film, Lawrence of Arabia (1962), for which he received an Oscar nomination; followed by such blockbusters as Doctor Zhivago (1965) and Funny Girl (1968)
An expert at bridge; played bridge professionally and wrote several books about the game
Was awarded the inaugural Sergei Eisenstein Medal by UNESCO in 2005, for his contributions to world film and cultural diversity
Awards
2004César Awards-Best Actor:winner
2003French Academy of Cinema-Best Actor:winner
1966Golden Globe-Best Performance by an Actor in a Motion Picture - Drama:winner
1963Golden Globe-Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role in a Motion Picture:winner
1963Golden Globe-New Star of the Year - Actor:winner
1962Oscar-Best Performance by an Actor in a Supporting Role:nominated