Actor. The handsome leading man came to international prominence when he co-starred with Peter O'Toole in the classic film "Lawrence of Arabia" (1962), and, three years later, distinguished himself playing the title role in "Doctor Zhivago" (1965). Born to a wealthy Egyptian-Lebanese family, he learned English in school, in addition to mastering a number of other languages. He attended Victory College in Cairo, where he studied Physics and Math, prior to concentrating on a career in the theater. Sharif marked his film debut in his native Egypt and starred in pictures for a decade before achieving international stardom. He received a Golden Globe Award for "Lawrence of Arabia" in addition to an Academy Award nomination. He received a Golden Globe Award for "Doctor Zhivago." Among his other credits include "Funny Girl" (1968) and "Funny Lady" (1975, both with Barbra Streisand), "The Appointment" (1968), "Che!" (1969), "The Horsemen" (1971), "Juggernaut" (1974), "The Tamarind Seed" (1974), and "Top Secret!" (1984). In addition to his acting career, he was an expert bridge player. Sharif, who had been suffering from Alzheimer's disease died from a heart attack.
Actor. The handsome leading man came to international prominence when he co-starred with Peter O'Toole in the classic film "Lawrence of Arabia" (1962), and, three years later, distinguished himself playing the title role in "Doctor Zhivago" (1965). Born to a wealthy Egyptian-Lebanese family, he learned English in school, in addition to mastering a number of other languages. He attended Victory College in Cairo, where he studied Physics and Math, prior to concentrating on a career in the theater. Sharif marked his film debut in his native Egypt and starred in pictures for a decade before achieving international stardom. He received a Golden Globe Award for "Lawrence of Arabia" in addition to an Academy Award nomination. He received a Golden Globe Award for "Doctor Zhivago." Among his other credits include "Funny Girl" (1968) and "Funny Lady" (1975, both with Barbra Streisand), "The Appointment" (1968), "Che!" (1969), "The Horsemen" (1971), "Juggernaut" (1974), "The Tamarind Seed" (1974), and "Top Secret!" (1984). In addition to his acting career, he was an expert bridge player. Sharif, who had been suffering from Alzheimer's disease died from a heart attack.
Bio by: C.S.
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