Sam Asghari and Omar Sharif Jr. have joined the cast of the upcoming independent romantic comedy Crazy Rich Arabs, which is set to begin filming in Los Angeles next week. The film has no connection to Warner Bros.’ Crazy Rich Asians franchise. Its ensemble also includes Walid Chaya and Aron Kader.
Walid Chaya leads the Hollywood comedy
Chaya will play two roles in the film, portraying identical twins Youssef and Omar. He also co-wrote the screenplay with Jimmy Monack and serves as an executive producer alongside Sharif Jr.
The story follows Youssef, a sheltered musician from Beirut who travels to Los Angeles for an arranged marriage with Reema, played by Sophia Konat. However, his plans take an unexpected turn when he discovers Omar, a wealthy Hollywood divorce attorney he never knew was his twin brother.
According to Deadline, the brothers eventually switch identities, leading to complications involving romance, family secrets, and cultural differences.
Sharif Jr. will play Shay, a charming Airbnb host, while newcomer Maya Tannous will portray Beverly Hills lounge owner Layla. George Khouri will play Reema’s protective brother.
The wider Crazy Rich Arabs cast includes Kourosh Parsapour, Lara J Barry, and Sarah Siadat, alongside newcomers Konat and Tannous.
Peter Takla will direct the project, while Chaya’s Moonlit Wings Productions will handle production. Rawan Chaya will contribute the film’s original music and soundtrack.
Beyond its romantic comedy storyline, Chaya said the project aims to address the limited representation of Middle Eastern and North African characters in Hollywood, particularly in leading roles.
“Growing up, I rarely saw people who looked like me represented on screen,” Chaya said. He explained that Crazy Rich Arabs would place Arab characters at the center of a story featuring humor, romance, and family.
He also emphasized that the film aims to celebrate Arab culture rather than rely on familiar stereotypes.
With Sam Asghari, Omar Sharif Jr., and Chaya among its ensemble cast, Crazy Rich Arabs is set to begin production in Los Angeles next week. The filmmakers have yet to announce an official release date.
