In October, Marvel Studios cast their first Muslim superhero, Kamala Khan, as Ms. Marvel—making it clear that diversity is a priority for the cinematic universe. It looks like they’re keeping up with their promise.
They’ve added Palestinian-Egyptian actress May Calamawy to their roster. The Bahrain-born actress will join Oscar Isaac in the new Disney+ series Moon Knight. The series will also see Egyptian screenwriter and director Mohamed Diab behind the scenes.
Diab, whose 2016 film Clash received critical acclaim for its portrayal of the 2013 clashes between pro and anti-Muslim Brotherhood protestors in Cairo, will direct the six-part series alongside Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson.
The Marvel and Disney+ series is set to begin filming this March in Budapest. Whilst Oscaar Isaac has been confirmed to star as Moon Knight himself, Calamawy’s role has yet to be confirmed.
In the Marvel comic, Moon Knight, aka Marc Spector—a mercenary with many personas— makes his way to Sudan on a mission, and after a brush with death, is eventually resurrected by the Egyptian moon god Khonshu.
Neither Disney+ nor Marvel have provided comment on Calamawy’s role, however, according to Deadline. The actress starred in the Emmy-winning series Ramy as Dena Hassan, Ramy’s sister. She also took part in 2012 Arab horror Djinn, and American mini-series The Long Road Home.
