Yahya Mahayni

Yahya Mahayni is a Syrian actor born on October 7, 1980, in Damascus, Syria. He gained international recognition for his performance in the film “The Man Who Sold His Skin” (2020), directed by Tunisian filmmaker Kaouther Ben Hania.

Mahayni studied acting at the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in Damascus and later continued his training in France. Prior to his breakthrough role, he had appeared in a few Syrian television series and theater productions.

In “The Man Who Sold His Skin,” Mahayni plays the lead character Sam Ali, a Syrian refugee who agrees to have his back tattooed as a work of art by a renowned artist, turning himself into a living piece of art. The film explores themes of identity, migration, and the commodification of human beings. Mahayni’s performance was widely praised for its depth and vulnerability, earning him critical acclaim and several awards.

Yahya Mahayni’s portrayal in “The Man Who Sold His Skin” propelled him into the international spotlight and opened up opportunities for him to work on more prominent projects. He has since appeared in other films and continues to establish himself as a talented and promising actor.

With his talent, dedication, and ability to bring complex characters to life, Yahya Mahayni is an emerging talent in the world of cinema, representing the Syrian film industry on the global stage.