3 Famous Americans You Didn’t Know Were Arab 

posted on: Jul 23, 2025

By: Amir Kobeissi / Arab America Contributing Writer

Many famous Americans you may know come from some surprising backgrounds, notably some may come from Arab ethnicity. From NBA champions to high-level innovators and even actors, Arab Americans have silently shaped American culture and notable achievements. Jamal Murray’s high-level basketball skills, Steve Jobs’ revolutionary technological impacts, and Tony Shalhoub’s iconic acting performances represent this diversified legacy.

Jamal Murray – NBA Star and Champion

Although many people view Jamal Murray of the Denver Nuggets as one of the NBA’s best point guards, many don’t know that his mother is originally Syrian. Jamal has become a star in the NBA, becoming one of the league’s most clutch and big-time players. He played a huge role in the Denver Nuggets’ success in 2023, where his exceptional performances helped them win the championship. His calmness, focus, and success have made him a big role model across America and the wider world. Many Arab Americans are proud to see someone with similar roots become so successful, and his story represents how Arab Identity can exist everywhere, including the NBA.

Steve Jobs – Genius and Entrepreneur

Steve Jobs, the co-founder of Apple, has Syrian ancestry. In 1955, in San Francisco, California, he was born to a Syrian father, Abdulfattah Jandali. Despite his being adopted and growing up in California, Steve remained aware that he had an Arab background. However, it wasn’t publicly expressed or emphasized during his life. His major contributions from the iPhone to the iPad have completely reshaped how millions of people around the world interact. Steve’s legacy is often celebrated, especially in connection with the evolution of technology and innovation. The roots of him as a child of a Syrian background show how Arab Americans have played such a strong role in modern society.

Tony Shalhoub – Beloved Actor

Tony Shalhoub, who is well known for his role as the unorthodox detective in the popular television series “Monk”, is another famous figure with Arab heritage. Born to Lebanese parents in Wisconsin, he has constantly embraced his cultural background and attributed it to his work. Many of his characters reveal Arab identity through acting. He has won multiple awards, including Emmys. Thus, making him one of, if not the most, successful Arab American actor in Hollywood history. Tony’s presence on screen has given Arab Americans someone to connect to in an area where Arab voices and presence have been limited.

Embracing Arab American Identity

These people are just a small sample of how much Arab Americans have contributed to major aspects of American life. This includes sports, technology, acting, and so much more. Jamal Murray, Steve Jobs, and Tony Shalhoub all show that Arab identity is very diverse and evolving. Their achievements show how inaccurate stereotypes can be and inspire Arab Americans of the future to chase their dreams.

As Arab American heritage becomes more known and recognized, honoring those who came before you will create a way for new people to make a name for themselves. Despite the setting or profession, famous Arab Americans can be used as a reminder that they are a huge part of the American story and dream.

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