Mohammed Amer: Difference between revisions
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{{Infobox comedian |
{{Infobox comedian |
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| name = Mohammed Amer |
| name = Mohammed Amer |
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| image = Mo Amer.jpg |
| image = Mo Amer.jpg |
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| caption |
| caption = Amer at a comedy show in Ramallah, Palestine in August 2016 |
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| pseudonym = Mo Amer, Mohammed Najjar |
| pseudonym = Mo Amer, Mohammed Najjar |
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| birth_name = |
| birth_name = |
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| birth_date = 1981 |
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| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1981|7|24}}<ref>https://twitter.com/realmoamer/status/359402932350885890?s=20</ref> |
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| birth_place = Kuwait |
| birth_place = [[Kuwait]] |
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| death_date = |
| death_date = |
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| death_place = |
| death_place = |
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| nationality = American |
| nationality = American |
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| active = 1999–present |
| active = 1999–present |
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| genre = [[Observational comedy]], [[ |
| genre = [[Observational comedy]], [[satire]], [[self-deprecation]], [[storytelling]], [[Improvisational theatre|improv]], [[character comedy]] |
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| subject = [[Islamic humour]], [[Islamophobia]], [[Political satire]], [[Family]], [[Marriage]], [[Racism]], [[American immigration |
| subject = [[Islamic humour]], [[Islamophobia]], [[Political satire]], [[Family]], [[Marriage]], [[Racism]], [[American immigration]], [[Refugees]] |
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| spouse = |
| spouse = |
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| domesticpartner = |
| domesticpartner = |
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| notable_work = |
| notable_work = |
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| signature = |
| signature = |
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| website = |
| website = |
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| footnotes = |
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| module = |
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}} |
}} |
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'''Mohammed Mustafa Amer''' ({{lang-ar|محمد عامر}}; born |
'''Mohammed Mustafa Amer''' ({{lang-ar|محمد عامر}}; born 1981) is a Palestinian American [[stand-up comedy|stand-up comedian]]. He is known for his Netflix comedy special ''Mo Amer: The Vagabond'' and as a member of the comedy trio [[Allah Made Me Funny]]. Amer also appeared in the Hulu sitcom ''[[Ramy (TV series)|Ramy]]'' for two seasons, where he played the character Mo, Ramy's cousin who owns a diner. Additionally, he starred in the film ''[[Black Adam (film)|Black Adam]]'' and created and stars in the Netflix series ''[[Mo (TV series)|Mo]]'', which is loosely based on his experiences as a [[Palestinian refugee]]. The show was released in August 2022. Amer also hosted the 2023 season of [[Doha Debates]]' flagship series, filmed in Qatar's [[Education City]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=https://dohanews.co/netflix-star-mo-amer-to-host-new-doha-debates-programme/|title=Netflix Star Mo Amer to host new Doha Debates Programme|date=19 January 2023|newspaper=Doha News}}</ref> |
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== Early life == |
== Early life == |
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Amer is of Palestinian descent |
Amer is of Palestinian descent and the youngest of six children.<ref name="thecinemagirl">{{cite news|last=Donadoni |first=Serena |url=http://thecinemagirl.com/reviews/a/allah.htm |title=Comedy With a Mission |work=Dispatches |publisher=The Cinema Girl |year=2008 |accessdate=September 25, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110830195853/http://thecinemagirl.com/reviews/a/allah.htm |archive-date=August 30, 2011 }}</ref> His father worked as an engineer for the [[Kuwait Oil Company]].<ref name="washingtontimes">{{cite news |last1=Althoff|first1=Eric|url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2015/apr/29/mo-amer-kuwaiti-comedian-to-record-legally-homeles/?page=all|title=Arab-American comedian breaks down stereotypes|location=Washington|newspaper=[[The Washington Times]]|date=April 29, 2015|accessdate=September 1, 2015}}</ref> Amer attended a British school in Kuwait, where he learned English with a British accent. |
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⚫ | At the age of 9, Amer, along with his siblings and mother, fled Kuwait during the [[Gulf War]] and immigrated to the United States, settling in [[Houston]], [[Texas]]. He was placed in an [[English as a second or foreign language|ESL]] class, despite already being proficient in English.<ref name="guardian">{{cite news |last=Khan|first=Yasmeen|url=https://www.guardian.co.uk/stage/2009/mar/27/mo-amer-arab-american-standup-texas|title=Mo Amer: an Arab-American standup in Texas|newspaper=[[The Guardian]]|date=March 27, 2009|accessdate=January 1, 2013}}</ref><ref name="comedysceneinhouston">{{cite news |last=Bahmani|first=Al|url=http://www.comedysceneinhouston.com/2012/12/31/mo-amer-comic-ambassador-2/|title=Mo Amer: Comic Ambassador|location=Houston|publisher=Comedy Scene in Houston|date=December 31, 2012|accessdate=April 1, 2013}}</ref> |
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⚫ | In 1992, Amer's father, a telecom engineer, joined the family in the United States. Amer attended Piney Point Elementary School. One of his brothers became a pilot, and another earned a PhD in [[biochemistry]].<ref name="culturecatch">{{cite news|last=Judell|first=Brandon|url=http://www.culturecatch.com/film/allah-made-me-funny|title=Getting Jocular with Muslims|publisher=Spiritual Practice|date=October 4, 2008|accessdate=November 1, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180622192754/http://www.culturecatch.com/film/allah-made-me-funny|archive-date=June 22, 2018|url-status=dead}}</ref> Amer's father passed away in 1995 when Amer was 14 years old, leading to a period of academic struggles. A teacher later encouraged him to pursue comedy as an outlet for his grief.<ref name="guardian" /> |
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== Career == |
== Career == |
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At age 10, Amer attended a [[Bill Cosby]] performance at the Houston [[Astrodome]],<ref name="washingtontimes" /> and four years later, he discovered stand-up comedy at a Texas rodeo.<ref name="cbsnews">{{cite news |last1=Dahler|first1=Don|last2=Zingaro|first2=Dina|last3=Banerji|first3=Suvro|url=http://www.cbsnews.com/news/arab-american-comedian-breaks-down-stereotypes/|title=Arab-American comedian breaks down stereotypes|publisher=CBS News|date=August 1, 2015|accessdate=September 1, 2015}}</ref><ref name="observerchronicle">{{cite news|url=http://www.observerchronicle.com/breaking/arab-american-comedian-breaks-down-stereotypes/33102/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304224711/http://www.observerchronicle.com/breaking/arab-american-comedian-breaks-down-stereotypes/33102/|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 4, 2016|title=Arab-American comedian breaks down stereotypes|publisher=Observer Chronicle|date=August 2, 2015|accessdate=September 1, 2015}}</ref> An English teacher encouraged him to perform a monologue from [[Shakespeare]] in exchange for improving his grades, leading to Amer's interest in comedy.<ref name="washingtontimes" /> He began participating in high school theater and eventually started performing stand-up comedy<ref name="legallyhomeless">{{cite web |url=http://www.legallyhomeless.com/html/bio.html|title=Biography|publisher=Legally Homeless :: Trials of a Refugee|accessdate=September 9, 2011}}</ref><ref name="neon-entertainment">{{cite web|url=http://www.neon-entertainment.com/Neon/Comedian-Mo-Amer.html|title=Comedian-Mo-Amer|publisher=Neon Entertainment|accessdate=January 1, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160718034242/http://www.neon-entertainment.com/Neon/Comedian-Mo-Amer.html|archive-date=July 18, 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> by impersonating family members.<ref name="rooftopcomedy">{{cite web|url=http://www.rooftopcomedy.com/comics/MoAmer|title=Mo Amer|publisher=Rooftop Comedy|accessdate=January 1, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322013502/http://www.rooftopcomedy.com/comics/MoAmer|archive-date=March 22, 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> Amer refined his comedic skills at Houston's [[comedy clubs]]<ref name="GPU08">{{cite web|url=http://www.theglobalunity.com/08/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=115&Itemid=248|title=Performers|publisher=Global Peace and Unity Event 2008|date=October 2008|accessdate=September 28, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100914112119/http://www.theglobalunity.com/08/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=115&Itemid=248|archive-date=September 14, 2010|url-status=dead}} Mo Amer</ref> while working at a flag manufacturing company.<ref name="washingtontimes" /> |
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After the death of his father, Amer started being truant and taking unsanctioned trips to Mexico with his friends.<ref name="washingtontimes" /> An English teacher made a deal with Amer that if he performed a monologue from [[William Shakespeare]] in front of her class, she would reinstate his grade before his truancy began and allow him to try comedy in front of the class every Friday. Amer graduated and focused on his passion.<ref name="washingtontimes" /> He then participated in and had leading roles in high school theatre, and started performing stand-up comedy<ref name="legallyhomeless">{{cite web |url=http://www.legallyhomeless.com/html/bio.html|title=Biography|publisher=Legally Homeless :: Trials of a Refugee|accessdate=September 9, 2011}}</ref><ref name="neon-entertainment">{{cite web|url=http://www.neon-entertainment.com/Neon/Comedian-Mo-Amer.html|title=Comedian-Mo-Amer|publisher=Neon Entertainment|accessdate=January 1, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160718034242/http://www.neon-entertainment.com/Neon/Comedian-Mo-Amer.html|archive-date=July 18, 2016|url-status=dead}}</ref> by impersonating family members<ref name="rooftopcomedy">{{cite web|url=http://www.rooftopcomedy.com/comics/MoAmer|title=Mo Amer|publisher=Rooftop Comedy|accessdate=January 1, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140322013502/http://www.rooftopcomedy.com/comics/MoAmer|archive-date=March 22, 2014|url-status=dead}}</ref> and developed it over a few years in the [[comedy club]] scene.<ref name="GPU08">{{cite web|url=http://www.theglobalunity.com/08/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=115&Itemid=248|title=Performers|publisher=Global Peace and Unity Event 2008|date=October 2008|accessdate=September 28, 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100914112119/http://www.theglobalunity.com/08/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=115&Itemid=248|archive-date=September 14, 2010|url-status=dead}} Mo Amer</ref> Amer performed at Houston's comedy clubs as often as possible to refine his act while working a day job at a flag manufacturing company owned by a family friend.<ref name="washingtontimes" /> |
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⚫ | In June 1999,<ref name="comedysceneinhouston" /> Amer |
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Amer has performed tours in over 27 countries on five continents, including Germany, Italy, Sicily, Japan, South Korea, and Bahrain, as well as with other Muslim comedians [[Preacher Moss]] and [[Azhar Usman]] in the [[Allah Made Me Funny]] comedy tour since 2006.<ref name="allahmademefunny">{{cite web|url=http://www.allahmademefunny.com/about/index.html |title=Performers |publisher=Allah Made Me Funny |accessdate=August 28, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110930093019/http://www.allahmademefunny.com/about/index.html |archive-date=September 30, 2011 }} Mo Amer</ref> |
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In 2004, he performed at [[The Comedy Festival]] in Las Vegas.<ref name="legallyhomeless" /><ref name="rooftopcomedy" /> |
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In July 2008, he performed at the [[Islam Expo]] in [[Olympia (London)|Olympia]], London.<ref name="islamexpo">{{cite web|url=http://www.islamexpo.com/attractions.php?id=1&art=19&page=attractions.php|title=Attractions – IslamExpo – 11–14 July 2008 – Olympia, London|publisher=IslamExpo|date=July 2007|accessdate=April 1, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160305190527/http://islamexpo.com/attractions.php?art=19&id=1&page=attractions.php|archive-date=March 5, 2016|url-status=dead}} Mo Amer</ref> In October 2008, he performed at the [[Global Peace and Unity]] event in the [[ExCeL London|ExCeL Exhibition Centre]] in [[London]] organised by [[Islam Channel]].<ref name="GPU08" /><ref name="moamer">{{cite web |url=http://www.moamer.net/bio|title=Biography|publisher=Mo Amer's Official Website|accessdate=August 28, 2011}}</ref> |
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As well as with Allah Made Me Funny, Amer has performed at sold-out shows worldwide, including Royal Albert Hall and [[Hammersmith Apollo]] (London), [[Acer Arena]] (Sydney), Nelson Mandela Theatre (Johannesburg), [[Shrine Auditorium]] (Los Angeles), as well as the Malmö Arts Festival (Sweden), the [[Amman Stand-up Comedy Festival]] (Jordan), and the [[World's Funniest Island|World's Funniest Island Festival]] (Australia).<ref name="muslimfest" /> |
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⚫ | Amer has been |
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In June 2013, Amer featured on an interfaith special, ''What's So Funny About Religion?'', which was broadcast on the [[CBS]] Television Network.<ref name="muslimentertainment">{{cite news |url=http://www.muslimentertainment.com/cbs-airs-whats-so-funny-about-religion/|title=CBS Airs What's So Funny About Religion?|publisher=Muslim Entertainment|date=July 1, 2013|accessdate=November 1, 2013}}</ref> |
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Amer developed his first solo feature-length documentary-comedy special, working with long-time standup collaborator Azhar Usman, co-produced through their jointly owned production entity, Kalijaga Media LLC.<ref name="muslimfest" /><ref name="aquila-style" /><ref name="broadwayworld2">{{cite web |url=http://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwcomedy/article/Palestinian-American-Comic-Mo-Amer-to-Bring-LEGALLY-HOMELESS-to-DC-53-20150403-page2|title=Palestinian-American Comic Mo Amer to Bring LEGALLY HOMELESS to D.C., 5/3|website=Broadway World|date=April 3, 2015|page=2|accessdate=September 1, 2015}}</ref> On May 3, 2015, Amer recorded his one-hour special, ''Legally Homeless'', at the [[Warner Theatre (Washington, D.C.)|Warner Theatre]]<ref name="washingtontimes" /> presented by Live Nation Comedy.<ref name="broadwayworld1">{{cite web |url=http://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwcomedy/article/Palestinian-American-Comic-Mo-Amer-to-Bring-LEGALLY-HOMELESS-to-DC-53-20150403|title=Palestinian-American Comic Mo Amer to Bring LEGALLY HOMELESS to D.C., 5/3|website=Broadway World|date=April 3, 2015|page=1|accessdate=September 1, 2015}}</ref> He became the first Arab-American to star in his own nationally televised one-hour stand-up special.<ref name="cbsnews" /><ref name="observerchronicle" /><ref name="onislam">{{cite news |url=http://www.onislam.net/english/news/americas/491005-us-comedian-prophet-had-great-sense-of-humor.html|title=US Comedian: Prophet Had Great Sense of Humor|publisher=OnIslam|date=August 2, 2015|accessdate=September 1, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151010080505/http://onislam.net/english/news/americas/491005-us-comedian-prophet-had-great-sense-of-humor.html|archive-date=October 10, 2015}}</ref> The show's title is derived from the fact that Amer has traveled to more than 20 countries without a passport, and straddled multiple cultures while growing up in the U.S. ''Legally Homeless'' includes appearances by Azhar Usman, Bassem Youssef, [[Hasan Minhaj]], Ramy Youssef, and independent rapper [[Brother Ali]].<ref name="broadwayworld2" /> |
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⚫ | In June 1999,<ref name="comedysceneinhouston" /> Amer participated in Houston's Funniest Person Contest and reached the finals. He was then directed to The Comedy Showcase, where the owner, Danny Martinez, mentored him in stand-up comedy.<ref name="campusactivitiesmagazine">{{cite news |url=http://www.campusactivitiesmagazine.com/articles.php?articleID=201204234|title=Mo Amer|publisher=Campus Activities Magazine|date=April 2012|accessdate=January 1, 2012}}</ref> By age 19, Amer was performing for U.S. troops stationed abroad,<ref name="guardian" /> becoming one of the first Arab-American refugee comedians to do so.<ref name="muslimfest">{{cite web |url=http://www.muslimfest.com/muslim_artists_friends/mo-amer/|title=Biography|publisher=MuslimFest|accessdate=January 1, 2013}}</ref> |
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From August 10–13, 2015, Amer joined [[Bob Alper]] and [[Ahmed Ahmed]] for four nights of comedy in [[Ramallah]], [[West Bank]].<ref name="pagesix">{{cite news |last=Johnson|first=Richard|url=http://www.pagesix.com/2015/07/24/jews-and-arabs-laugh-together/|title=Jews and Arabs laugh together|location=New York|publisher=[[Page Six]]|date=July 24, 2015|accessdate=September 1, 2015}}</ref> |
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⚫ | Amer has since performed in over 27 countries across five continents and was a part of the "[[Allah Made Me Funny]]" comedy tour with [[Preacher Moss]] and [[Azhar Usman]] starting in 2006.<ref name="allahmademefunny">{{cite web|url=http://www.allahmademefunny.com/about/index.html |title=Performers |publisher=Allah Made Me Funny |accessdate=August 28, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110930093019/http://www.allahmademefunny.com/about/index.html |archive-date=September 30, 2011 }} Mo Amer</ref> In 2004, he performed at [[The Comedy Festival]] in Las Vegas<ref name="legallyhomeless" /><ref name="rooftopcomedy" /> and has since appeared at various international festivals and events, including the Islamic Relief Evening of Inspiration at the [[Royal Albert Hall]] in 2007<ref name="maniacmuslim">{{cite web |url=http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_GXXSWa4Wwfc/ReLOwLoT-LI/AAAAAAAAAM8/5oohTC_aYa8/s1600-h/Evening+of+Inspiration+2007+-+Flyer.JPG|title=Evening of Inspiration 2007 Flyer|publisher=Islamic Relief|date=February 26, 2007|accessdate=November 1, 2013}}</ref><ref name="awakeningnews">{{cite web|url=http://www.awakening.org/entertainment/news/index.htm|title=News Concert Schedule 2006–07|publisher=Awakening Entertainment|accessdate=November 1, 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120327055608/http://www.awakening.org/entertainment/news/index.htm|archive-date=March 27, 2012}}</ref> and the [[Global Peace and Unity]] event in [[London]]in 2008.<ref name="GPU08" /><ref name="moamer">{{cite web |url=http://www.moamer.net/bio|title=Biography|publisher=Mo Amer's Official Website|accessdate=August 28, 2011}}</ref> |
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Amer also has co-written an original feature screenplay with award-winning filmmaker Iman Zawahry and longtime stand-up collaborator Azhar Usman.<ref name="muslimfest" /><ref name="aquila-style" /> |
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⚫ | Amer's comedy has been featured in sold-out shows worldwide, including venues such as Royal Albert Hall, [[Hammersmith Apollo]], and [[Shrine Auditorium]].<ref name="muslimfest" /> He has also appeared on television and radio, including [[NPR]], [[BBC]], and [[CNN]],<ref name="muslimfest" /> and has been interviewed by major media outlets like ''[[The New York Times]]'', ''[[Rolling Stone]]'', and ''[[The Guardian]]''. Amer was also featured on "Al-Bernameg with [[Bassem Youssef]]," the Egyptian equivalent of ''The Daily Show''.<ref name="aquila-style">{{cite news |url=http://www.aquila-style.com/wief-marketplace-of-creative-arts/performance-arts/mocafest-alumni-spotlight-comedian-mo-amer/105413/|title=MOCAfest Alumni Spotlight: Comedian Mo Amer|publisher=Aquila Style|date=July 21, 2015|accessdate=September 1, 2015}}</ref> |
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In October 2015, Amer began touring with and opening for [[Dave Chappelle]] regularly across the U.S.<ref name="timesunion">{{cite news |last=Barnes|first=Steve|url=http://blog.timesunion.com/localarts/review-dave-chappelle-palace-theatre-10415/39377/|title=Review: Dave Chappelle @ Palace Theatre, 10/4/15|location=Albany, New York|newspaper=[[Times Union (Albany)|Times Union]]|date=October 4, 2015|accessdate=February 3, 2016}}</ref> |
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In 2015, Amer recorded his one-hour special, ''Legally Homeless'', at the [[Warner Theatre (Washington, D.C.)|Warner Theatre]],<ref name="washingtontimes" /> becoming one of the first Arab-Americans to have a nationally televised stand-up special.<ref name="cbsnews" /><ref name="observerchronicle" /><ref name="onislam">{{cite news |url=http://www.onislam.net/english/news/americas/491005-us-comedian-prophet-had-great-sense-of-humor.html|title=US Comedian: Prophet Had Great Sense of Humor|publisher=OnIslam|date=August 2, 2015|accessdate=September 1, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151010080505/http://onislam.net/english/news/americas/491005-us-comedian-prophet-had-great-sense-of-humor.html|archive-date=October 10, 2015}}</ref> The special's title reflects Amer's experiences of navigating multiple cultures without a passport. ''Legally Homeless'' includes appearances by comedians such as Azhar Usman, Bassem Youssef, [[Hasan Minhaj]], and Ramy Youssef.<ref name="broadwayworld2">{{cite web |url=http://www.broadwayworld.com/bwwcomedy/article/Palestinian-American-Comic-Mo-Amer-to-Bring-LEGALLY-HOMELESS-to-DC-53-20150403-page2|title=Palestinian-American Comic Mo Amer to Bring LEGALLY HOMELESS to D.C., 5/3|website=Broadway World|date=April 3, 2015|page=2|accessdate=September 1, 2015}}</ref> |
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⚫ | Amer has co-written an original feature screenplay with filmmaker Iman Zawahry and Azhar Usman.<ref name="muslimfest" /><ref name="aquila-style" /> He began touring with [[Dave Chappelle]] in 2015<ref name="timesunion">{{cite news |last=Barnes|first=Steve|url=http://blog.timesunion.com/localarts/review-dave-chappelle-palace-theatre-10415/39377/|title=Review: Dave Chappelle @ Palace Theatre, 10/4/15|location=Albany, New York|newspaper=[[Times Union (Albany)|Times Union]]|date=October 4, 2015|accessdate=February 3, 2016}}</ref> and made his U.S. network television debut on ''[[The Late Show with Stephen Colbert]]'' in March 2017.<ref name="cbspressexpress">{{cite news |url=https://www.cbspressexpress.com/cbs-entertainment/shows/the-late-show-with-stephen-colbert/releases/view?id=47237|title=UPCOMING GUESTS ON "THE LATE SHOW with STEPHEN COLBERT," 3/3-3/10|publisher=CBS Press Express|date=March 3, 2017|accessdate=March 6, 2017}}</ref> |
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In 2018, Amer joined the cast of the Hulu show ''Ramy'', starring Ramy Youssef, where he plays Ramy's cousin Mo, who owns and operates a diner, where many of the show's characters congregate. Amer is currently in the second season of ''Ramy''. |
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In 2018, Amer joined the cast of the Hulu show ''Ramy'', playing Ramy's cousin Mo, who owns a diner where many of the show's characters gather. He also filmed his first Netflix comedy special,<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://twitter.com/realmoamer/status/1012472220113752064|title=MO AMER on Twitter|work=Twitter|access-date=July 1, 2018}}</ref> ''Mo Amer: The Vagabond'', which was released in 2018.<ref>{{cite web |title=Mo Amer: The Vagabond |url=https://www.netflix.com/gb/title/80239503 |website=Netflix Official Site |accessdate=July 11, 2020 |language=en}}</ref> |
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In 2022, Amer created and starred in the Netflix series ''[[Mo (Netflix TV show)|Mo]]'', loosely based on his experiences as a Palestinian refugee.<ref>{{Cite news|url= https://www.npr.org/2022/08/23/1118770031/mo-amer-netflix-series-refugee-experience |title= Mohammed Amer's new series explores the tragedy and comedy in the refugee experience |access-date=August 23, 2022}}</ref> The show has received several awards, including a [https://peabodyawards.com/award-profile/mo/ Peabody Award], and has been renewed for a second season. Amer also starred in the DC film ''[https://deadline.com/2021/04/dwayne-johnson-black-adam-movie-adds-mo-amer-1234733850/ Black Adam]'' alongside Dwayne Johnson in 2022 and was named [https://www.gqmiddleeast.com/men-of-the-year GQ Man of the Year in the UAE.] |
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== Comedy style == |
== Comedy style == |
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Amer |
Amer draws from his ethnic and family background to discuss issues related to religion, terrorism, and contemporary politics, using personal stories about his family and himself.<ref name="muslimfest" /> He often addresses his Palestinian heritage,<ref name="spiritualityandpractice">{{cite news |last1=Brussat|first1=Frederic|last2=Brussat|first2=Mary Ann|url=http://www.spiritualityandpractice.com/films/films.php?id=18449|title=Film Review: Allah Made Me Funny: Live in Concert|publisher=Spiritual Practice|accessdate=November 1, 2013}}</ref> family experiences, and growing up in America.<ref name="seattletimes">{{cite news |last=Fry|first=Ted|url=http://www.seattletimes.com/html/movies/2008223159_mr03allah.html|title="Allah Made Me Funny": Stand-ups riff on being Muslim in America|work=[[The Seattle Times]]|date=October 3, 2008|accessdate=November 1, 2013}}</ref> |
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== Personal life == |
== Personal life == |
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Amer lived in Los Angeles with his |
Amer lived in Los Angeles with his wife and step-daughter.<ref name="laffspot">{{cite web |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T9UakVVr_Tg|title=Mohammed "Mo" Amer @ Laff spot|publisher=Mohammed Amer|date=March 25, 2010|accessdate=March 1, 2013}}</ref>{{better source|date=February 2024}} |
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In 2009, Amer became a U.S. citizen |
In 2009, Amer became a U.S. citizen, allowing him to travel to [[State of Palestine|Palestine]] and [[Jordan]] to visit family he had not seen for almost 20 years.<ref name="comedysceneinhouston" /> He also returned to [[Kuwait]] and [[Baghdad]] for the first time since his family fled.<ref name="guardian" /> |
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In October 2023, Amer signed an open letter for the "[[Artists4Ceasefire]]" campaign, along with other artists, urging President [[Joe Biden]] to advocate for a ceasefire during the [[Israeli invasion of the Gaza Strip (2023–present)|2023 Israeli invasion of the Gaza Strip]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.npr.org/2023/10/21/1207783685/celebrities-letter-ceasefire-israel-gaza-biden|title=Entertainment industry A-listers sign a letter to Biden urging a cease-fire in Gaza|last=Veltman|first=Chloe|date=October 21, 2023|work=[[NPR]]|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231021195237/https://www.npr.org/2023/10/21/1207783685/celebrities-letter-ceasefire-israel-gaza-biden|archive-date=October 21, 2023|url-status=live|access-date=April 23, 2024}}</ref> |
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==Filmography== |
==Filmography== |
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===Film=== |
===Film=== |
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{| class="wikitable plainrowheaders" |
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| 2021 |
! scope="row"| 2021 |
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| ''[[Americanish]]'' |
| ''[[Americanish]]'' |
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| Zane |
| Zane |
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| |
| |
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|- |
|- |
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| 2022 |
! scope="row"| 2022 |
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| ''[[Black Adam (film)|Black Adam]]'' |
| ''[[Black Adam (film)|Black Adam]]'' |
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| Karim |
| Karim |
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| |
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|- |
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! scope="row" | 2024 |
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| ''[[Sweet Dreams (2024 film)|Sweet Dreams]]'' |
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| Pete |
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===Television=== |
===Television=== |
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! scope="row" rowspan="2"| 2018 |
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| 2018 |
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| ''[[Crashing (American TV series)|Crashing]]'' |
| ''[[Crashing (American TV series)|Crashing]]'' |
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| Himself |
| Himself |
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| Episode: "Porter Got HBO" |
| Episode: "Porter Got HBO" |
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| ''Mo Amer: The Vagabond'' |
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⚫ | |||
| Himself |
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| Netflix Comedy Special |
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⚫ | |||
| ''[[Ramy (TV series)|Ramy]]'' |
| ''[[Ramy (TV series)|Ramy]]'' |
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| Mo |
| Mo |
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| Main role |
| Main role |
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|- |
|- |
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! scope="row"|2021 |
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⚫ | |||
| ''Mo Amer: Mohammed in Texas'' |
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| Himself |
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| Netflix Comedy Special |
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|- |
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⚫ | |||
| ''[[Mo (TV series)|Mo]]'' |
| ''[[Mo (TV series)|Mo]]'' |
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| Mo Najjar |
| Mo Najjar |
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| ''[[Mo (TV series)|Mo]]'' |
| ''[[Mo (TV series)|Mo]]'' |
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|{{won}} |
|{{won}} |
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! style="text-align:center;"|<ref>{{cite web|title= |
! style="text-align:center;"|<ref>{{cite web|title='Everything Everywhere All At Once' Wins Best Feature at Gotham Awards|date=November 28, 2022|url=https://variety.com/2022/awards/entertainment-industry/gotham-awards-2022-winners-list-1235442875/|publisher=Variety}}</ref> |
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|{{nom}} |
|{{nom}} |
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! style="text-align:center;"|<ref>{{cite web|title=Film Independent Spirit Award TV Nominations: |
! style="text-align:center;"|<ref>{{cite web|title=Film Independent Spirit Award TV Nominations: 'Abbott Elementary,' 'The Bear,' 'Severance,' 'Station Eleven' Lead|date=December 13, 2022|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/independent-spirit-awards-2023-tv-nominations-list-nominees-1235281061/|publisher=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> |
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|- |
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| 2023 |
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| [[List of Peabody Award winners (2020–2029)#2023|Peabody Awards]] |
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| Entertainment |
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| ''Mo'' |
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|{{won}} |
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! style="text-align:center;"|<ref>{{cite web|title=Peabody Awards: 'Abbott Elementary,' 'Andor,' 'Severance' and 'We're Here' Among Winners|date=May 9, 2023|url=https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/tv/tv-news/2023-peabody-awards-winnners-1235482343//|publisher=The Hollywood Reporter}}</ref> |
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[[Category:American comedians of |
[[Category:American comedians of Middle Eastern descent]] |
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[[Category: |
[[Category:Muslims from Texas]] |
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[[Category:Comedians from Houston]] |
Revision as of 20:08, 21 August 2024
Mohammed Amer | |
---|---|
Pseudonym | Mo Amer, Mohammed Najjar |
Born | 1981 Kuwait |
Medium | Stand-up, television, film |
Nationality | American |
Years active | 1999–present |
Genres | Observational comedy, satire, self-deprecation, storytelling, improv, character comedy |
Subject(s) | Islamic humour, Islamophobia, Political satire, Family, Marriage, Racism, American immigration, Refugees |
Mohammed Mustafa Amer (Arabic: محمد عامر; born 1981) is a Palestinian American stand-up comedian. He is known for his Netflix comedy special Mo Amer: The Vagabond and as a member of the comedy trio Allah Made Me Funny. Amer also appeared in the Hulu sitcom Ramy for two seasons, where he played the character Mo, Ramy's cousin who owns a diner. Additionally, he starred in the film Black Adam and created and stars in the Netflix series Mo, which is loosely based on his experiences as a Palestinian refugee. The show was released in August 2022. Amer also hosted the 2023 season of Doha Debates' flagship series, filmed in Qatar's Education City.[1]
Early life
Amer is of Palestinian descent and the youngest of six children.[2] His father worked as an engineer for the Kuwait Oil Company.[3] Amer attended a British school in Kuwait, where he learned English with a British accent.
At the age of 9, Amer, along with his siblings and mother, fled Kuwait during the Gulf War and immigrated to the United States, settling in Houston, Texas. He was placed in an ESL class, despite already being proficient in English.[4][5]
In 1992, Amer's father, a telecom engineer, joined the family in the United States. Amer attended Piney Point Elementary School. One of his brothers became a pilot, and another earned a PhD in biochemistry.[6] Amer's father passed away in 1995 when Amer was 14 years old, leading to a period of academic struggles. A teacher later encouraged him to pursue comedy as an outlet for his grief.[4]
Career
At age 10, Amer attended a Bill Cosby performance at the Houston Astrodome,[3] and four years later, he discovered stand-up comedy at a Texas rodeo.[7][8] An English teacher encouraged him to perform a monologue from Shakespeare in exchange for improving his grades, leading to Amer's interest in comedy.[3] He began participating in high school theater and eventually started performing stand-up comedy[9][10] by impersonating family members.[11] Amer refined his comedic skills at Houston's comedy clubs[12] while working at a flag manufacturing company.[3]
In June 1999,[5] Amer participated in Houston's Funniest Person Contest and reached the finals. He was then directed to The Comedy Showcase, where the owner, Danny Martinez, mentored him in stand-up comedy.[13] By age 19, Amer was performing for U.S. troops stationed abroad,[4] becoming one of the first Arab-American refugee comedians to do so.[14]
Amer has since performed in over 27 countries across five continents and was a part of the "Allah Made Me Funny" comedy tour with Preacher Moss and Azhar Usman starting in 2006.[15] In 2004, he performed at The Comedy Festival in Las Vegas[9][11] and has since appeared at various international festivals and events, including the Islamic Relief Evening of Inspiration at the Royal Albert Hall in 2007[16][17] and the Global Peace and Unity event in Londonin 2008.[12][18]
Amer's comedy has been featured in sold-out shows worldwide, including venues such as Royal Albert Hall, Hammersmith Apollo, and Shrine Auditorium.[14] He has also appeared on television and radio, including NPR, BBC, and CNN,[14] and has been interviewed by major media outlets like The New York Times, Rolling Stone, and The Guardian. Amer was also featured on "Al-Bernameg with Bassem Youssef," the Egyptian equivalent of The Daily Show.[19]
In 2015, Amer recorded his one-hour special, Legally Homeless, at the Warner Theatre,[3] becoming one of the first Arab-Americans to have a nationally televised stand-up special.[7][8][20] The special's title reflects Amer's experiences of navigating multiple cultures without a passport. Legally Homeless includes appearances by comedians such as Azhar Usman, Bassem Youssef, Hasan Minhaj, and Ramy Youssef.[21]
Amer has co-written an original feature screenplay with filmmaker Iman Zawahry and Azhar Usman.[14][19] He began touring with Dave Chappelle in 2015[22] and made his U.S. network television debut on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert in March 2017.[23]
In 2018, Amer joined the cast of the Hulu show Ramy, playing Ramy's cousin Mo, who owns a diner where many of the show's characters gather. He also filmed his first Netflix comedy special,[24] Mo Amer: The Vagabond, which was released in 2018.[25]
In 2022, Amer created and starred in the Netflix series Mo, loosely based on his experiences as a Palestinian refugee.[26] The show has received several awards, including a Peabody Award, and has been renewed for a second season. Amer also starred in the DC film Black Adam alongside Dwayne Johnson in 2022 and was named GQ Man of the Year in the UAE.
Comedy style
Amer draws from his ethnic and family background to discuss issues related to religion, terrorism, and contemporary politics, using personal stories about his family and himself.[14] He often addresses his Palestinian heritage,[27] family experiences, and growing up in America.[28]
Personal life
Amer lived in Los Angeles with his wife and step-daughter.[29][better source needed]
In 2009, Amer became a U.S. citizen, allowing him to travel to Palestine and Jordan to visit family he had not seen for almost 20 years.[5] He also returned to Kuwait and Baghdad for the first time since his family fled.[4]
In October 2023, Amer signed an open letter for the "Artists4Ceasefire" campaign, along with other artists, urging President Joe Biden to advocate for a ceasefire during the 2023 Israeli invasion of the Gaza Strip.[30]
Filmography
Film
Year | Titel | Role | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
2021 | Americanish | Zane | |
2022 | Black Adam | Karim | |
2024 | Sweet Dreams | Pete |
Television
Year | Titel | Role | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
2018 | Crashing | Himself | Episode: "Porter Got HBO" |
Mo Amer: The Vagabond | Himself | Netflix Comedy Special | |
2019–present | Ramy | Mo | Main role |
2021 | Mo Amer: Mohammed in Texas | Himself | Netflix Comedy Special |
2022–present | Mo | Mo Najjar | Also creator |
Awards and nominations
Year | Association | Kategorie | Nominated work | Result | Ref. |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
2022 | Gotham Awards | Breakthrough Series (Under 40 Minutes) | Mo | Won | [31] |
2023 | Independent Spirit Awards | Best Lead Performance in a New Scripted Series | Mo | Nominated | [32] |
2023 | Peabody Awards | Entertainment | Mo | Won | [33] |
See also
References
- ^ "Netflix Star Mo Amer to host new Doha Debates Programme". Doha News. January 19, 2023.
- ^ Donadoni, Serena (2008). "Comedy With a Mission". Dispatches. The Cinema Girl. Archived from the original on August 30, 2011. Retrieved September 25, 2011.
- ^ a b c d e Althoff, Eric (April 29, 2015). "Arab-American comedian breaks down stereotypes". The Washington Times. Washington. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
- ^ a b c d Khan, Yasmeen (March 27, 2009). "Mo Amer: an Arab-American standup in Texas". The Guardian. Retrieved January 1, 2013.
- ^ a b c Bahmani, Al (December 31, 2012). "Mo Amer: Comic Ambassador". Houston: Comedy Scene in Houston. Retrieved April 1, 2013.
- ^ Judell, Brandon (October 4, 2008). "Getting Jocular with Muslims". Spiritual Practice. Archived from the original on June 22, 2018. Retrieved November 1, 2013.
- ^ a b Dahler, Don; Zingaro, Dina; Banerji, Suvro (August 1, 2015). "Arab-American comedian breaks down stereotypes". CBS News. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
- ^ a b "Arab-American comedian breaks down stereotypes". Observer Chronicle. August 2, 2015. Archived from the original on March 4, 2016. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
- ^ a b "Biography". Legally Homeless :: Trials of a Refugee. Retrieved September 9, 2011.
- ^ "Comedian-Mo-Amer". Neon Entertainment. Archived from the original on July 18, 2016. Retrieved January 1, 2013.
- ^ a b "Mo Amer". Rooftop Comedy. Archived from the original on March 22, 2014. Retrieved January 1, 2013.
- ^ a b "Performers". Global Peace and Unity Event 2008. October 2008. Archived from the original on September 14, 2010. Retrieved September 28, 2011. Mo Amer
- ^ "Mo Amer". Campus Activities Magazine. April 2012. Retrieved January 1, 2012.
- ^ a b c d e "Biography". MuslimFest. Retrieved January 1, 2013.
- ^ "Performers". Allah Made Me Funny. Archived from the original on September 30, 2011. Retrieved August 28, 2011. Mo Amer
- ^ "Evening of Inspiration 2007 Flyer". Islamic Relief. February 26, 2007. Retrieved November 1, 2013.
- ^ "News Concert Schedule 2006–07". Awakening Entertainment. Archived from the original on March 27, 2012. Retrieved November 1, 2013.
- ^ "Biography". Mo Amer's Official Website. Retrieved August 28, 2011.
- ^ a b "MOCAfest Alumni Spotlight: Comedian Mo Amer". Aquila Style. July 21, 2015. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
- ^ "US Comedian: Prophet Had Great Sense of Humor". OnIslam. August 2, 2015. Archived from the original on October 10, 2015. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
- ^ "Palestinian-American Comic Mo Amer to Bring LEGALLY HOMELESS to D.C., 5/3". Broadway World. April 3, 2015. p. 2. Retrieved September 1, 2015.
- ^ Barnes, Steve (October 4, 2015). "Review: Dave Chappelle @ Palace Theatre, 10/4/15". Times Union. Albany, New York. Retrieved February 3, 2016.
- ^ "UPCOMING GUESTS ON "THE LATE SHOW with STEPHEN COLBERT," 3/3-3/10". CBS Press Express. March 3, 2017. Retrieved March 6, 2017.
- ^ "MO AMER on Twitter". Twitter. Retrieved July 1, 2018.
- ^ "Mo Amer: The Vagabond". Netflix Official Site. Retrieved July 11, 2020.
- ^ "Mohammed Amer's new series explores the tragedy and comedy in the refugee experience". Retrieved August 23, 2022.
- ^ Brussat, Frederic; Brussat, Mary Ann. "Film Review: Allah Made Me Funny: Live in Concert". Spiritual Practice. Retrieved November 1, 2013.
- ^ Fry, Ted (October 3, 2008). ""Allah Made Me Funny": Stand-ups riff on being Muslim in America". The Seattle Times. Retrieved November 1, 2013.
- ^ "Mohammed "Mo" Amer @ Laff spot". Mohammed Amer. March 25, 2010. Retrieved March 1, 2013.
- ^ Veltman, Chloe (October 21, 2023). "Entertainment industry A-listers sign a letter to Biden urging a cease-fire in Gaza". NPR. Archived from the original on October 21, 2023. Retrieved April 23, 2024.
- ^ "'Everything Everywhere All At Once' Wins Best Feature at Gotham Awards". Variety. November 28, 2022.
- ^ "Film Independent Spirit Award TV Nominations: 'Abbott Elementary,' 'The Bear,' 'Severance,' 'Station Eleven' Lead". The Hollywood Reporter. December 13, 2022.
- ^ "Peabody Awards: 'Abbott Elementary,' 'Andor,' 'Severance' and 'We're Here' Among Winners". The Hollywood Reporter. May 9, 2023.
External links
- 21st-century American comedians
- American comedians of Middle Eastern descent
- Muslims from Texas
- Palestinian Muslims
- Palestinian emigrants to the United States
- Palestinian expatriates in the United States
- American stand-up comedians
- Muslim male comedians
- Writers from Los Angeles
- Writers from Houston
- Allah Made Me Funny
- 1981 births
- Living people
- Comedians from Houston