Ramy Youssef Bio
Ramy Youssef (born March 26, 1991) is an American stand-up comedian, actor, and writer known for his role as Ramy Hassan on the Hulu comedy series Ramy. His performance earned him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Television Series Musical or Comedy and a Peabody Award in 2020. Youssef’s unique storytelling about his experiences as a first-generation Muslim-American has resonated widely, leading to nominations for multiple Primetime Emmy Awards and establishing him as a significant voice in contemporary comedy.
Early Life and Background
Ramy Youssef was born in 1991 in New York City to Egyptian parents and raised in Rutherford, New Jersey. His father became a manager at the Plaza Hotel in New York City after emigrating from Egypt. Growing up in a Muslim household, Youssef observed Islamic holidays and remains a practicing Muslim. He attended Rutherford High School, where he and his friend Steve Way appeared on their high school television program. Youssef later studied political science and economics at Rutgers University, Newark, but left before graduating to focus on acting at the William Esper Studio.
Path to Hollywood
Youssef made his acting debut on the Nick at Nite sitcom See Dad Run, where he had a main role. During the show’s run, he shadowed the writers’ room, an experience that would influence his own show in 2019. In 2017, he gained recognition by performing his stand-up routine on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert. His television series Ramy debuted on Hulu on April 19, 2019, telling the story of a millennial first-generation Muslim-American. The show was well-received, leading to a second season renewal shortly after its premiere.
Ramy Youssef Career
Early Career (2009–2018)
Ramy Youssef began his career in 2009, with his notable work being the sitcom See Dad Run. His experience in the writers’ room helped shape his future projects. In 2019, Youssef’s series Ramy premiered, showcasing his talent and unique perspective. His performance earned him critical acclaim, culminating in a Golden Globe Award win in 2020.
Breakthrough (2019–2022)
The debut of Ramy marked a significant turning point in Youssef’s career. The show, which he co-created, explores the complexities of being a first-generation Muslim-American. His portrayal of the title character garnered him a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series Musical or Comedy in 2020. The series also led to nominations for two Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Directing and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series.
Notable Works and Milestones
Ramy Youssef’s signature work, Ramy, has received critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe Award and multiple Emmy nominations. His storytelling resonates with audiences, making him a prominent figure in contemporary comedy.
Ramy Youssef Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Ramy Youssef has received several nominations, including two Primetime Emmy Awards for his work on Ramy, highlighting his talent and impact in the industry.
Ramy Youssef Awards Won
Ramy Youssef has won notable awards, including the Golden Globe Award for Best Actor – Television Series Musical or Comedy for his performance in Ramy, showcasing his exceptional talent in the entertainment industry.
| Award | Wins | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Golden Globe Awards | 1 | 2020 |
Ramy Youssef Family
Ramy Youssef has been married to a visual artist from Saudi Arabia since 2022. He met his wife through May Calamawy, his co-star in Ramy. Youssef is private about his personal life and has chosen not to disclose his wife’s personal details publicly.
Personal Life
Youssef is known for his advocacy work, including signing an open letter to President Biden in 2023, calling for a ceasefire in Gaza. He has expressed his support for Palestine in various public forums, including during his Saturday Night Live monologue in March 2024.
