Fares Al-Helou

Biography

Fares Al Helou is a Syrian actor born on August 15, 1961, in Mashta al-Helu, Tartus Governorate, Syria. He graduated from the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in Damascus in 1984 and began his career in theater before establishing himself in Syrian television and cinema. Known for his versatility in both comedy and drama, Al Helou gained widespread recognition through his portrayal of Farhan in the popular comedy series Five-Star Family (1994). His television credits include Abu Al-Hana's Dreams (1996), A Hero from This Time (1999), Al-Hosrom Al-Shami, and The Curse of Mud (2010). He has also appeared in several Syrian films, including Public Relations (2007), for which he received a Best Actor award at the Valencia International Film Festival. In 2006, he founded Al-Bustan Workshop for Culture and Arts, an initiative supporting artistic and cultural activities. Following the outbreak of the Syrian conflict, he relocated to France and participated in the documentary A Comedian in a Syrian Tragedy (2019), which follows his experiences in exile. His acting career has continued with projects including the television series Mawlana (2026).