Lior Raz, born on November 24, 1971, in Ma’ale Adumim, Israel, has seamlessly transitioned from the life of a soldier to that of a celebrated actor and screenwriter. Best known for co-creating and starring in the critically acclaimed series Fauda, Raz’s journey is a testament to resilience, talent, and dedication.
Early Life and Military Service
Raised in Ma’ale Adumim, a settlement near Jerusalem, Raz was born to Mizrahi Jewish parents who immigrated from Iraq and Algeria. His father served in elite Israeli units, including Shayetet 13 and Shin Bet, before managing a plant nursery. His mother worked as a teacher. Growing up, Raz was immersed in both Hebrew and Arabic, reflecting his family’s diverse heritage.
At 18, Raz enlisted in the Israel Defense Forces, joining the elite undercover counter-terrorism unit, Sayeret Duvdevan. His service in this unit profoundly influenced his later work in the entertainment industry.
Personal Tragedy and Its Impact
In 1990, Raz experienced a personal tragedy when his girlfriend, Iris Azulai, was fatally stabbed in Jerusalem. This event left an indelible mark on him, influencing the depth and authenticity he brings to his roles.
Transition to Acting
After completing his military service, Raz moved to the United States in 1993. There, he worked as a bodyguard for celebrities, including Arnold Schwarzenegger. However, his passion for storytelling led him back to Israel, where he enrolled at the Nissan Nativ Drama School in Tel Aviv to pursue acting.
Rise to Fame with Fauda
In 2014, Raz co-created Fauda with journalist Avi Issacharoff. The series offers a gripping portrayal of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, with Raz starring as Doron Kabilio, the leader of an undercover counter-terrorism unit. Fauda received critical acclaim, winning multiple Israeli Academy Awards and gaining international recognition through platforms like Netflix.
Expanding Horizons
Building on the success of Fauda, Raz expanded his repertoire:
- “Hit & Run” (2021): A Netflix series where Raz plays Segev Azulai, a man seeking answers after his wife’s mysterious death.
- “6 Underground” (2019): Directed by Michael Bay, Raz portrays Rovach Alimov, showcasing his versatility in action-packed roles.
- “Mary Magdalene” (2018): Raz takes on the role of a Magdala community leader, highlighting his ability to adapt to diverse genres.
Recent Endeavors
In 2023, Raz starred in A Body That Works, a surrogacy drama series alongside Rotem Sela and Yehuda Levi. The series achieved significant success in Israel and was later released internationally on Netflix.
Looking ahead, Raz is set to appear in Gladiator II (2024), portraying the character Viggo. This role marks a significant milestone, positioning him alongside Hollywood’s elite.
Lior Raz Personal Life
Raz is married to actress Meital Berdah, and together they have four children. The family resides in Ramat Hasharon, Israel, balancing their professional commitments with a close-knit family life.
Conclusion
Lior Raz’s journey from a commando in the Israeli Defense Forces to an international acting sensation is a narrative of determination and passion. His authentic portrayals and commitment to storytelling have not only captivated audiences worldwide but have also paved the way for Israeli narratives on global platforms.
