LAJ ARTICLES

Hayman Homer: An American Actor with a Kurdish Soul

From the heart of the ancient city of Erbil, Kurdistan, where dreams are as vast as the city’s horizons, a new star has been rising in the form of Hayman Homer. Not only is the Kurdish-born American actor promising to ascend the Hollywood ranks, but he’s on a mission to redefine storytelling by bringing the timeless epic of “Kawa the Blacksmith” to the world stage.

Homer’s journey to the United States is a testament to the power of resilience and the transformative force of art. Born in Erbil, Kurdistan, his life was shaped by the rich tapestry of his homeland’s stunning landscapes, timeless mythologies, and his father’s profound sacrifice as a Peshmerga fighter who died serving his people when Hayman was only ten. Raised by his
indomitable single mother, Bediah Azeez, in a family of eight children, Hayman’s early years reflected the strength and desert resilience of his family and the Kurdish people.


“As an artist, I am driven by the endless possibilities that America offers the world of cinema, a place where hard work, dedication, and vision pay off.”
–HAYMAN HOMER

Before embarking on the film world, Hayman started working as a model and appeared in multiple national and global campaign commercials, also appearing in major music videos, Hayman wasn’t aware that his unique background and talent had been setting him apart. Barely 30-years-old, Hayman’s portrayal of Jesus Christ in ‘The Messiah‘ (2024) was groundbreaking, especially as the first Kurd to bring this iconic figure to life on the big screen. And his depiction of a war medic in the movie ‘Aman‘ (2024) was another deeply moving exhibition of hisacting skills, especially considering his father’s legacy as a Kurdish wartime hero.

But even so, Homer’s restless ambitions extend beyond these roles. As a visionary, he is driven by the singular desire to share the epic story of ‘Kawa the Blacksmith.’ This tale, deeply intertwined with his Kurdish/Median heritage, is as much a part of him as the blood running through his veins.

Homer recently participated in major international film festivals such as the Cannes Film Festival in France and the Berlinale in Germany and currently working with international investors and assembling a team to bring a fully developed cinematic universe back to Los Angeles, California.

Homer is perceived as a modern-day Kawa, using his voice to champion the stories and struggles of his people: the home of his birth, Erbil, Kurdistan, and the adopted home, America. By serving both, he aims to bring this epic tale to Hollywood–not just as an actor but as a cultural ambassador, for his vision is to create a cinematic masterpiece that captures the essence of a fully developed cinematic Universe that his team with Hayman have created and the Kawa’s legacy, showcasing the resilience and spirit of the Kurdish people on the global stage and adding to the cultural diversity of the United States.


His journey reminds us that art knows no boundaries. From the bustling and ancient streets of Kurdistan to the bright lights of Hollywood, Hayman Homer’s story is a beacon of hope for ANYONE who believes in the power of dreams.

“Through my work, I wish to inspire people to act and support social cooperation, a positive force in their community and helpcultural and non-profit organizations, my goal is to be a person who feeds hope, where people say anything is possible with him, and to give back, to act and build. That drives me and makes me truly happy.”
–HAYMAN HOMER

Homer’s impact isn’t limited to the screen. As a human rights advocate, community activist, and board member of the Tennessee Kurdish Community Council and the Kurdistani Diaspora Confederation in his hometown of Nashville, Tennessee, he uses his platform to make a solid difference. Dedicated to supporting underserved minority communities and displaced people from his old country, their continued welfare, education & economy, and preserving his Kurdish heritage, Homer is a testament to his belief in the power of community and solidarity.


Homer’s story is exactly what Hollywood needs today to promote. It reminds us that our story can touch the world no matter where we come from. Not to be defined by the lack of resources, every big goal that’s worthy to achieve at the beginning might seem out of touch until it happens. His call to action is for you to dream big, embrace your culture and roots, use your voice, and act upon it to make a real change that can be a source of hope to someone else, that’s how you change the world.

Story: Robbie Grayson

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