Riyad El-Kholi: Fame came after 18 years of patience and faith

Egyptian actor Riyad El-Kholi said his fame and artistic career came after nearly 18 years of hardship and patience, adding that his journey could be written as a book about perseverance. He made the remarks on the program "Kalam El-Nas" on MBC Masr. El-Kholi explained he relied on strong faith in God and his own abilities throughout his career. He noted he was at peace with himself while his peers became stars, and he often worked in limited or marginal roles, sometimes being told to just take a photo during shoots. He cited trips abroad for series work that yielded no opportunities, feeling unknown. His breakthrough came in 1994 with the series "Al-Aila," where he played an early terrorist leader role, followed by the 1995 film "Toyour Al-Zalam," which established his presence.