Omar Sharif, the legendary actor known for his iconic roles in films like "Lawrence of Arabia" and "Doctor Zhivago," had a fascinating personal life that often piqued the interest of fans and media alike. Throughout his life, Omar Sharif was married several times, and each relationship contributed to his colorful story. In this article, we will explore the details surrounding Omar Sharif's marriages, providing insights into his romantic life and how it influenced his career.

Born in Alexandria, Egypt, in 1932, Omar Sharif's journey from a young man with dreams of acting to an international superstar is remarkable. His charm and talent won the hearts of many, but behind the glamour lay complex relationships that shaped his life. This article aims to shed light on how many times Omar Sharif was married, along with the circumstances and stories behind each union.

From his first marriage to his well-known love interests, we will provide a comprehensive overview of Omar Sharif's marital history. So, let’s dive into the life of this extraordinary actor and uncover the details surrounding his marriages.

Biography of Omar Sharif
Omar Sharif's Marriages
Details of His First Marriage
Details of His Second Marriage
Omar Sharif in Later Life
Omar Sharif's Legacy
Conclusion
Sources

Biography of Omar Sharif

Omar Sharif was born Michel Demitri Shalhoub on April 10, 1932, in Alexandria, Egypt. He was the son of a Lebanese father and a Syrian mother, and he began his career in Egyptian cinema in the 1950s. His breakthrough role came when he starred in the film "The Blazing Sun," which showcased his talent to a wider audience.

Sharif gained international fame after his performance in "Lawrence of Arabia" (1962), directed by David Lean. His portrayal of Sherif Ali earned him critical acclaim and opened doors to Hollywood. Over the years, he starred in numerous films, becoming one of the most recognized actors globally.

Beyond his acting career, Omar Sharif was also an accomplished bridge player, often participating in international tournaments. He was known for his charismatic personality and charm, traits that made him a beloved figure in the entertainment industry.

Omar Sharif's Marriages

Throughout his life, Omar Sharif was married twice. His marriages were often the subject of public interest, and each union represented different chapters in his life.

Details of His First Marriage

Omar Sharif's first marriage was to Faten Hamama, a prominent Egyptian actress, in 1955. Their relationship was highly publicized, and they became one of the most beloved couples in the Arab world.

Marriage Year: 1955
Divorce Year: 1974
Children: One son, Tarek Sharif

The couple shared a deep bond, both personally and professionally, having starred together in several films. However, their marriage faced challenges, particularly due to Sharif's rising fame in Hollywood and the cultural differences that emerged over the years. Ultimately, they divorced in 1974, although they remained on good terms until Hamama's death in 2015.

Details of His Second Marriage

Omar Sharif's second marriage was to an American woman named Barbara Sharif. They married in the late 1970s, but details about this marriage remain relatively private compared to his first.

Marriage Year: Late 1970s
Divorce Year: Unknown

This marriage was characterized by its secrecy, and little is known about Barbara or their life together. It is believed that the couple separated after a few years, but specific details about their divorce have not been publicly disclosed.

Omar Sharif in Later Life

In later years, Omar Sharif faced various challenges, both personally and professionally. He continued to act in films and television, though his health began to decline. Sharif was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2015, which affected his ability to work and participate in public life.

Despite these challenges, he remained a beloved figure in the film industry and was known for his warmth and charisma until his passing on July 10, 2015. His legacy as an actor and a cultural icon endures, thanks to his significant contributions to cinema.

Omar Sharif's Legacy

Omar Sharif's impact on the film industry is undeniable. He opened doors for Arab actors in Hollywood and became a symbol of cultural exchange between the East and the West. His performances in epic films have left a lasting impression, and he is remembered as one of the greats in cinema history.

His personal life, including his marriages, reflects a man who navigated fame, love, and loss with grace. While the details of his relationships may be complex, they add depth to the narrative of his life, illustrating the human experience behind the screen.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Omar Sharif was married twice during his lifetime, first to the renowned actress Faten Hamama and later to Barbara Sharif. Each marriage brought unique experiences and challenges, reflecting the complexities of his personal life against the backdrop of his illustrious career.

As fans of Omar Sharif, we continue to celebrate his contributions to cinema and remember the man behind the roles. We invite you to share your thoughts on Omar Sharif's life and legacy in the comments below and explore other articles on our site to learn more about this fascinating figure.