From Egypt to America

Zeeko Zaki has become a familiar face on CBS’s FBI, where he plays Special Agent Omar Adom “OA” Zidan. His character—a sharp, loyal, and fearless former Army Ranger—commands respect. But Zaki’s journey to the spotlight has been filled with challenges, sacrifices, and powerful personal changes.

Born in Alexandria, Egypt, in 1990, Zaki moved to the United States as an infant. Growing up in Pennsylvania, he often felt the pull of two worlds—his Egyptian heritage at home and his American identity outside of it. That balance shaped his perspective and later influenced the roles he pursued as an actor.

Discovering His Passion for Acting

Zaki first found acting through school theater. He quickly realized how much he loved expressing himself on stage. But Hollywood wasn’t welcoming at first. Many casting directors saw only his looks and assigned him stereotypical roles, often as villains or terrorists. These parts frustrated him, but they also fueled his determination to change the narrative for Middle Eastern actors in mainstream media.

The Physical Transformation That Changed Everything

One of the most striking parts of Zaki’s story is his physical transformation. At one point in his early career, he weighed more than 300 pounds. He has spoken openly about his struggles with body image and the demands of Hollywood.

Through years of training, diet, and discipline, Zaki lost over 100 pounds. He credits consistency, not quick fixes, for the change. The results gave him confidence and helped open doors in the industry. Yet, Zaki admits the transformation came with pressure. As a public figure, he feels the constant expectation to maintain his image.

Carrying the Weight of Representation

For Zaki, the challenge goes beyond his physical appearance. As one of the few Arab-American actors in a lead television role, he carries the responsibility of cultural representation. His portrayal of OA—an American hero and patriot—stands in direct contrast to the harmful stereotypes Hollywood has often relied on.

Zaki has spoken about the impact of seeing young Arab-American fans connect with his role. For many, it’s the first time they’ve seen themselves represented in a positive, multidimensional way on network television. While he is proud to be a trailblazer, he admits the weight of representation can feel overwhelming. The pressure to “get it right” for his community adds another layer of responsibility to his work.

Balancing Fame and Privacy

Despite his growing fame, Zaki values his privacy. He rarely discusses his romantic life and prefers to keep the focus on his craft, fitness, and advocacy. On social media, he shares motivational posts and training updates, inspiring followers who admire his discipline and resilience.

Breaking Barriers in Hollywood

Zaki’s story is one of resilience. From immigrant beginnings to breaking through in an industry that often resists change, he has redefined what it means to be a leading man. His transformation has been physical, personal, and professional.

Today, FBI is one of the most successful dramas on television, and Zaki’s role in it has left a lasting mark. He has not only carved out his place in Hollywood but has also shifted perceptions of what representation on primetime television can look like. For many, he is more than an actor—he is a role model, breaking barriers and building bridges through every performance.