This January, we decided to embark on a journey with the charismatic Youssef Othman as he unveils the highs, challenges, and vibrant adventures shaping his path in the dynamic realms of both career and personal life. In this exclusive interview, Youssef shares candid insightsâfrom the BTS of shooting Batn El Hoot and his upcoming projects to his ideal first date, what he does when it gets rough, and more! Get ready to know Youssef Othman on a whole new level, as he prepares to conquer hearts and screens in 2024!
What was it like shooting Batn El Hoot? Any special BTS moments?
Shooting Batn El Hoot was an unpredictable and daring experience, filled with surprises. The eccentric, authentic locations, like El Ameriya, contributed to the suspension of disbelief theory, making it natural for us to stay in character. One memorable BTS moment occurred when a local approached me unknowingly, asking about the shoot. Then I realized I had seamlessly merged into the world, ready to embrace my character.
What was the biggest challenge about portraying this character?
The challenge was avoiding clichés and infusing new colors into the character of Sheikh Yasser. I aimed to connect with its base, layering the role with depth. With guidance from my acting coach, Nada Nader, drawing inspiration from a relative of mine, and the body language of a crocodile, I strived to find the delicate balance between avoiding stereotypes and portraying authenticity.
Tell us more about your upcoming projects!
I have three projects in the pipelineâa series, “Ba2ena Etnen,” set to release in January 2024, a film, “Asl El Hekaya,” and a Ramadan series with Dr. Yehia El Fakharany which Iâm so thrilled about because thatâll be my reunion with him after 17 years. The series, a light rom-com featuring Sherif Moneer, Rania Youssef, and Nancy Helal, promises a colorful and fun experience that Iâm really excited for people to see and that personally helped diversify and build my character portfolio. The film, tackling societal issues humorously, boasts a star-studded cast from director Mohamed Amin to Khaled El Sawy, Shery Adel, and more. My excitement for this movie stems from a very controversial role that Iâm portraying and also very excited for people to see it.
Are you more of a go-with-the-flow or have-expectations-and-plan kind of guy?
I prefer having a plan but have relinquished rigid expectations. Embracing a go-with-the-flow approach with outlined goals allows me to view achievements as milestones rather than mere checklist items. Flexibility and acceptance have enabled me to navigate life’s uncertainties, finding a delicate balance between planning and spontaneity.
How do you face the music? What do you do when times get rough?
I dance to the music alone, practicing self-isolation during challenging times. Seeking hope and light independently, I avoid making emotional decisions. This mindset helps me maintain a grip on reality and reflect during hardships, ensuring thoughtful responses and emotional stability.
What song do you have to sing along with when you hear it?
“Thatâs Life” and “This Town” by Frank Sinatra, along with shamelessly enjoying “Easy Money” by Sharmoofers from the Egyptian music scene, encapsulate the diverse soundtrack that resonates with my personality.
If your day had a theme song that played every time you walked into a room, what would it be?
Either “Cult of Personality” by Living Colour or the film score of “Ibrahim El Abyad” would be fitting choices.
Have you ever used a fake name in public? Did you get away with it?
I certainly have! Sometimes when Iâm running errands, people would actually stop me to remember my name and I then tend to use my brotherâs name, Mohamed to add a humourous element to the situation. I successfully got away with it in 2 or 3 out of 5 attempts though! People also often mistake me for Karim Kassem, Ahmed El Fishawy, or Karim Mahmoud Abdelaziz which is also really funny.
Have you ever sent a text message to the wrong person? How did you recover?
I donât usually talk about my relationships with friends but there was this one time when I was consulting a friend about an issue and accidentally sent the voice note meant for him to my girlfriend. I was quick to delete it and when she asked about it I told her you delete messages all the time so weâre now even! Letâs hope I never repeat that.
If a movie character came to life and befriended you, which one would you choose?
I’d choose Ahmed Helmyâs character from “1000 Mabrookâ, Ahmed Galal, and Dr. Emmett Brown from “Back to the Futureâ.
If you could guest star in any classic TV show, what would it be and why?
Probably Yasser Galal or Ahmed Azmyâs characters in “Yetraba Fe Ezzo” just to have more scenes with Dr Yehia El Fakharany. Also, “Hawanem Garden City” stands out for its intriguing theme!
What movie or book would you like to experience again for the first time?
“The Hundred-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared” is a captivating Swedish novel I’d love to rediscover. My fatherâs friend lent it to me back then. As for movies, definitely âFight Club” and “The King of Comedy”!
Whatâs your relationship with cooking? Have you invented a weird food item worth catching on?
I lack a cooking relationship but excel in home chores. I get an unwavering feeling of relaxation when I clean and organize spaces. As for cooking, a fusion dish of rice, green salad, shrimp, arugula, and Tehina mixed into a one-bowl meal represents my only culinary invention.
Are you more of a cat or a dog person?
I do love dogs, however, I proudly identify as a cat dad to Sodfa and Togo. Named after Shwikarâs character in âSayedaty El Gamilaâ and Detective Togomori from Detective Konan. Sodfa is treated like a queen and Togo is obsessed with stealing my belongings. Itâs the cutest thing ever!
Have you ever been starstruck, and how awkward did it get?
Meeting Saba Mubarak left me speechless but surprisingly not awkward because I didnât say a word. Starstruck, I remained silent, in awe of the encounter.
Do you believe in any conspiracy theories? If so, which oneâs your favorite?
The belief in the fake Moon Landing conspiracy theory captures my interest among various others.
Whatâs your deal maker and deal breaker in relationships?
Dealmakers include finding a funny, independent, active, ambitious, and easy-going partner. A deal breaker is being with someone lacking personal goals and dreams. Healthy relationship dynamics and the ability to coexist harmoniously are essential.
Whatâs your biggest pet peeve in a partner?
Stubbornness, self-centeredness, inflexibility, telling little white lies, and hiding stuff are significant pet peeves in a partner.
Whatâs your idea of the best and worst first dates?
For me, the best first dates involve engaging activities like walks, arcades, kayaking, or parks, fostering communication to get to know the person. Cinemas or restaurants, leading to awkwardness and detracting from meaningful interaction, represent the worst first dates, in my opinion.
Do you have some tips for having a good first date?
Be genuine, confident, and yourself. Avoid overwhelming or pressuring dynamics. Treat the first date casually, focusing on building a connection rather than rushing into romance.
What do you think is your love language? And whatâs your most annoying habit?
Quality time and physical touch constitute my love languages. Taking too much space during tough times not to spread negativity and relying heavily on spontaneity with no specific plans or clear intentions are my recognized but occasionally challenging habits.
Do you think youâre more of an introvert or an extrovert?
Iâm more of an ambivert, I appreciate both social interactions and quiet moments at home. At the same time, invitations to outings and gatherings, especially during Ramadan, hold a special place in my heart.
Who is the first person that youâd call if you were in trouble?
Either my best friend Mohy or my significant other would be my first call in times of trouble.
Who is your celebrity crush?
Celebrity crushes include Ana de Armas and Florence Pugh, with admiration for Anne Hathaway and Emily Blunt for their career choices and personalities.
How was your relationship with school? Favorite subject and teacher?
I enjoyed education and prioritized courses and professors till I realized life was much more than just that. But I really cherished my relationship with my professors and teachers at school and university. One of my favorite courses in Uni was History of Colonization in Africa which made me look at life differently. Chemistry and French were my favorites at school. And my favorite professors at uni were Dr Dina Bassiouny and Dr Alexandra Gazis whom I truly appreciate.
What would you like to be remembered for?
My desire is to be remembered as a good person, valuing reputation and character over professional achievements. At the beginning of the year, I wouldâve answered differently, but thatâs all I want now.
Tell me one short-term and one long-term goal of yours!
Short-term, I aim to develop a short film idea for international film festivals. Long-term, building a rich catalog of impactful roles is a goal, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.
Whatâs the perfect place for you to live?
An isolated, serene location in Morocco, Norway, Lebanon, Greenland, or the French countryside aligns with my ideal living space.
What do you see yourself doing in a year from now?
Thereâs a project that my friend and I are currently writing and developing and weâll soon begin pitching it to big production companies. Iâd be over the moon if that went according to plan! Iâd also love to have played a major role thatâs very impactful and will leave a mark for life on people.
