Maya Talem’s role in the Egyptian Ramadan series Esh Esh has been a game-changer for her career. Being part of such a high-profile series, especially during Ramadan— when TV shows are at the center of attention across the Arab world—, speaks volumes about her rise to fame in Middle Eastern television. This role not only showcases her talent but also highlights her ability to connect with a diverse audience, solidifying her place in the entertainment scene. If you are still unfamiliar with the name Maya Talem, here are 9 key facts about the Tunisian-Italian star you need to know.
Maya Talem Is Not Her Real Name
While we know her as Maya Talem, this is actually a stage name that was chosen with the help of her agent. The name “Talem” was picked to help her smoothly navigate the entertainment market. Although it doesn’t have a specific meaning in Italian, it was chosen to be catchy and easy to remember for a global audience. This name has helped her establish a strong professional identity as she builds her career.
She Was Born in Tunisia and Moved to Italy
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Maya Talem was born on July 20, 1988, in Tunisia, before moving to Italy at a young age. She holds dual citizenship, embracing both her Tunisian roots and her Italian upbringing. Growing up between these two cultures has greatly shaped her identity and approach to acting, and she often speaks about how these cultural influences have enriched her career. Her ability to seamlessly switch between languages and cultures has made her a strong international talent.
She’s Fluent in Multiple Languages
Thanks to her multicultural upbringing, Talem is fluent in four languages: Italian, Arabic, French, and English. This linguistic ability has allowed her to navigate diverse film industries, making her a highly versatile actress who can take on roles in various languages and across different regions. Her multilingualism has played a significant role in her expanding international career, from Italy to the Middle East and beyond.
‘Esh Esh’ Is Not Her First Egyptian Series
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Her role in the 2025 Ramadan series Esh Esh has brought her widespread recognition in the Middle East, but it’s not her first Egyptian project. Prior to this, she appeared in the Egyptian drama El Qahera: Kabul, where she played a significant role that helped introduce her to Egyptian audiences. Her performance laid the groundwork for her later success in Esh Esh, making her a familiar face in the Egyptian entertainment landscape.
Maya Talem’s Career Took Off with Italian TV
Talem’s breakthrough came in 2012 when she joined the Italian TV series Non uccidere (Thou Shalt Not Kill). This role marked the beginning of her acting career in Italian television. She continued to build her portfolio with roles in other popular Italian series such as Un Passo Dal Cielo and Il Bello delle Donne, where she played a fashion designer. These early TV roles helped solidify her place in Italian entertainment and allowed her to hone her acting skills before transitioning to film.
She’s Featured in Major International Projects
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Talem’s career has transcended the Italian screen, earning her roles in major international projects. One of her most notable roles was in Pharaoh’s War (2019), where she starred alongside boxing legend Mike Tyson and Game of Thrones’ Hafþór Júlíus Björnsson. This action-packed thriller allowed Talem to showcase her talent in a global film that brought her wider recognition. Her work in international projects has expanded her presence beyond Italy and into global markets, including the Middle East.
She’s Set to Share the Screen with Hollywood Legends
One of the most exciting developments in her career is her upcoming role in the biographical drama Maserati: The Brothers. In this film, she’ll star alongside Hollywood heavyweights such as Anthony Hopkins and Jessica Alba. Directed by Robert Moresco, this film marks a major milestone for Talem, as it is set to premiere at the prestigious Venice Film Festival. Her involvement in this international film is set to elevate her career to new heights and place her among the ranks of Hollywood’s finest.
She Got Married at 19
Talem’s personal life has had its own milestones. At the age of 19, she got married, marking an early and significant commitment. Though she tends to keep much of her personal life private, this early marriage was the result of a deep love and a desire for more stability.
She Is a Proud Mother of an 11-Year-Old Daughter
The actress is also a devoted mother to an 11-year-old daughter. Despite the demands of her busy career, the Tunisian star frequently emphasizes how important her family is to her. She is especially grateful to her own mother, whose support allows her to balance her professional life with motherhood, enabling Talem to pursue her career while ensuring her daughter’s well-being.
