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From Elite Soldier to Global Star

Special forces to special effects: How 'Fauda' Star Lior Raz conquered Hollywood

Lior Raz (AKA Doron from Fauda) is celebrating his 53rd birthday today. In honor of this milestone, we wanted to share some less well-known details about this popular actor, writer and director. 

Gila Isaacson
Gila Isaacson
2 min read
London, England, UK - November 13, 2024: Lior Raz attends "Gladiator II" The Royal Film Performance and Global Premiere at Leicester Square
Photo: Shutterstock / Loredana Sangiuliano

Israeli actor and director Lior Raz, who shot to international fame with "Fauda," turns 53 today. Here's what you might not know about the man behind Doron:

Lior Raz
Ohad Romano

Before Fame:

Born to an Iraqi father and Algerian mother, Raz served in the elite IDF Duvdevan unit - experience that later inspired "Fauda." After his military service, he took an unexpected detour as Arnold Schwarzenegger's bodyguard in the U.S., protecting both the actor and his then-wife Maria Shriver.

Personal Life:

The Ramat Sharon resident is married to actress Meital Barda, with whom he has four children. A self-proclaimed adventure seeker and amateur chef, Raz learned Arabic from his grandmother and practiced with Arab workers at his childhood home - skills that would later prove crucial for his acting career.

From soccer coach to security professional to global TV star, Raz's journey reflects an unlikely path to stardom. Netflix's acquisition of "Fauda" in 2016 marked a turning point, transforming him from local actor to international sensation.

International Success:

Raz has expanded far beyond "Fauda," appearing in Michael Mann's "Source," "Operation Finale" (as Mossad chief Isser Harel), and Michael Bay's "6 Underground" alongside Ryan Reynolds. Most recently, he shook hands with King Charles III at the "Gladiator 2" premiere, where he has a starring role.

Happy Birthday, Sir. We can't wait to see what this year brings.




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