The man behind the mask: Meet the Lebanese artist who voiced Duke Fleed in ‘Grendizer’

Jehad Alatrash with Grandizer at Joy Forum, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on October 13, 2019. (Ziyad Alarfaj)
Updated 26 October 2019
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The man behind the mask: Meet the Lebanese artist who voiced Duke Fleed in ‘Grendizer’

  • Grendizer’s success shows that Arab share same ‘honorable values’ as the Japanese, says Jihad al-Atrash

RIYADH: Though many in the Arab World may instantly recognize the name of Duke Fleed, the name Jihad Al-Atrash may not ring as many bells. However, the former couldn’t exist without the latter, at least not in the Middle East.

For those who don’t know either, Duke Fleed is the main character in an anime called Grendizer. Created by Japanese mangaka Go Nagai in 1975, leapt out of its original orbit in Japan and crash-landed in the Arab World in the 1980s, where it has firmly established roots as a cult classic and beloved icon. Following a full Arabic dubbing the show quickly gained traction in the region, and amazingly continues to do so decades later.

A Lebanese actor with a long and extensive history in the world of Arab media, Al-Atrash lent his voice to the Arabic dub of Grendizer, playing the heroic protagonist. It is now recognized as one of his best roles, and almost certainly the one he is most famous for.

Al-Atrash spoke to Arab News at the recent Joy Forum in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The event, which was held to boost investment in Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning entertainment sector, provided the perfect backdrop for the actor as he told his story: a giant statue of the eponymous Grendizer.

“Grendizer,” a massive success from its first broadcast in Lebanon in the 1980s, is something that Al-Atrash holds near and dear. And in this, he is hardly alone. “The Lebanese people fell in love with it,” he told Arab News. “The Arab people, especially in the UAE and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, remember ‘Grendizer’ very well. I was surprised and amazed at their strong memory.”

And even now the popularity has never waned. “When I meet people, they express great love for me. The most important thing is that many of them make their kids watch ‘Grendizer’ to learn ethics and values,” he said.

The actor told Arab News that he believes that the values “Grendizer” teaches are timeless, and that is why it has remained popular. “When Grendizer moved to Earth, he fought against evil and enemies who stood in his way, who wanted to destroy him and take over the Earth. He started to defend Planet Earth and called for peace, love, justice and respect for all human beings. All these are great human principles and values.”

Al-Atrash’s portrayal of the Duke was lauded for how he conveyed his feelings, particularly his sense of patriotism, given the political climate in Lebanon at the height of the show’s popularity. “Lebanon was at the time on the brink of the civil war that hit it later in the heart,” Al-Atrash explained, referring to the 1975-1990 civil war in Lebanon. “I was in too much pain over the war and what was going on in my country. I wanted peace and love to reign and I wanted the feelings of brotherhood and harmony to spread among all segments of the Lebanese society.”

His performance has even netted the approval of Grendizer’s creator himself. “Go Nagai said he is very happy that ‘Grendizer’ enjoyed this huge success in the Arab world, a success greater than that of Japan and other European countries,” Al-Atrash said. “He said he liked my voice a lot and wished (that) the Japanese character had the same amount of feelings and sensations.”

However, geopolitics aside, Al-Atrash also believes that Arab culture in general had a strong effect on the show’s popularity in the region. “Arabs are known for having noble and honorable values, magnanimity, generosity, encouragement, love of one’s country, love of one’s family and society,” he explained. “Arabs feel strong about these values. I hope we protect and maintain these values when raising our children and instill the values in their minds.”

Al-Atrash does, however, think that cartoons today have diminished somewhat in value. “The cartoons children watch these days teach them nothing but violence and violent ideas and make them engage in violent behavior with their classmates. Children imitate cartoon characters they watch on TV, (on) cell phones, and the latter are available everywhere. Cartoons today send directly or indirectly violent subliminal messages with no ethics, unlike ‘Grendizer.’ This is why I decided to stay away from acting in any cartoons. I don’t want my voice to be used as a tool to destroy kids, society and generations.”

With rumors floating around about an alleged remake of “Grendizer” to celebrate the show’s 45th anniversary next year, Al-Atrash said he is on board to reprise the role. “I’ve heard the rumors, but it’s all been talk at this point,” Al-Atrash told Arab News. “But I’m definitely interested (to record Duke Fleed’s voice in Arabic).”

In the meantime, he is able to enjoy memories of voicing the iconic character, in particular with his three daughters. “They love the show a lot. They introduce their friends to Grendizer and then tell them that Grendizer is their father,” he said laughing.


Kneecap rapper Mo Chara bailed over terror charge in the UK

Updated 18 June 2025
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Kneecap rapper Mo Chara bailed over terror charge in the UK

LONDON: Fans of the Irish-language hip-hop group Kneecap mobbed sidewalks outside a London court Wednesday as a member of the trio faced a terror-related charge in what he says is a politically motivated effort to silence the band’s support for Palestinians before its appearance at the Glastonbury Festival.

Rapper Mo Chara, whose real name is Liam Og O hAnnaidh, was released on unconditional bail after the hearing at Westminster Magistrates’ Court. His next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 20.

Irish rap group Kneecap band member, Liam O'Hanna, who performs under the stage name Mo Chara, arrives at Westminster Magistrates' Court in London on June 18, 2025. (AFP)

The single charge against Chara stems from a Nov. 21 concert in north London where he waved a Hezbollah flag in a manner that aroused “reasonable suspicion” he supported the Lebanese militant group, which is banned in Britain as a terrorist organization, the Metropolitan Police Service said in a statement last month.

Prosecutor Michael Bisgrove told the court on Wednesday Chara wasn’t being prosecuted because of his support for the Palestinians or criticism of Israel.

“He’s well within his rights to voice his opinions and solidarity, as is anybody else,’’ Bisgrove said. “The allegation in this case is a wholly different thing and deals with a video recording showing that, in November of last year, Mr. O hAnnaidh wore and displayed the flag of Hezbollah, a proscribed terrorist organization, while saying ‘up Hamas, up Hezbollah.’’’

Kneecap has supported the Palestinian cause throughout the war in Gaza. The band has been the center of controversy in Britain since last year, when the previous government sought to block an arts grant for the band, citing its anti-British politics. That decision was overturned after the Labour Party won last year’s parliamentary election and Prime Minister Keir Starmer took office.

The trio is scheduled to perform at Glastonbury on Saturday, alongside performers including Neil Young and Olivia Rodrigo. The internationally watched music festival is a five-day event that attracts about 200,000 people to a farm outside the small town in western England every summer.

As they entered the courthouse, the three Kneecap members, who hail from Northern Ireland, gave the thumbs up sign to hundreds of supporters who had gathered outside, waving signs reading: “Free Mo Chara” and “Defend Kneecap.”

The group has repeatedly said it doesn’t support Hezbollah or Hamas, nor condone violence.
Before the hearing, the band posted billboards around London bearing the slogan “More Blacks, More Dogs, More Irish, Mo Chara.” The message echoes the signs landlords placed in the windows of some London boarding houses in the 1950s, stating “No Blacks, No Dogs, No Irish.”

“British courts have long charged people from the North of Ireland with ‘terrorism’ for crimes never committed,” Kneecap said in a statement posted on social media. “We will fight them. We will win.”


Amira Al-Zuhair celebrates her birthday 

Updated 18 June 2025
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Amira Al-Zuhair celebrates her birthday 

DUBAI: Birthday tributes poured in for part-Saudi model Amira Al-Zuhair, who celebrated her 24th birthday this week.

From producer Kawther Alrimawi to lifestyle publication Hia Magazine, fashion and entertainment industry insiders took to social media to wish the runway star a happy birthday.

The model wrapped up shooting a campaign for an unnamed brand in Milan when the clock struck midnight. She marked the beginning of her birthday with a candle-topped dessert at a restaurant in the Italian city.

Instagram/ @amiraalzuhair

Al-Zuhair, born in Paris to a French mother and Saudi father, has made her mark on the fashion world and appeared on the runway for an array of renowned fashion houses such as Missoni, Maison Alaia, Brunello Cucinelli, Balmain, Dolce & Gabbana, Giambattista Valli, Giorgio Armani, Elie Saab and many more.

In addition to her runway appearances, Al-Zuhair has featured in campaigns for high-profile brands such as Prada, Chanel and Carolina Herrera.

Al-Zuhair returned to the runway in May when she walked in Louis Vuitton’s high jewelry collection show, held at Bellver Castle on the island of Majorca, Spain.

The show marked her return to the runway after she hit the catwalk at the amfAR gala in Cannes in May, before which she walked for Australian label Zimmermann at Paris Fashion Week in March.  

For Louis Vuitton, the model wore a strapless white gown featuring a fitted bodice and a soft, flowing skirt. The dress was detailed with cascading ruffles outlined in dark trim, which ran down the front and sides.

She also made a statement at the Zimmermann show wearing a burnt-orange ensemble. The sleeveless, fitted dress featured draped, ruched detailing that added movement to the design. The look was finished off with strappy brown leather sandals and gold accessories, including chandelier earrings and bracelets.

In late May, Al-Zuhair also reflected on her recent campaign with Balmain, sharing photos from the Resort 2025 collection shoot. “Had so much fun shooting inside the Eiffel Tower herself!” she wrote in the caption.

It was not Al-Zuhair’s first collaboration with Balmain. She previously walked for the brand during Paris Fashion Week in September.


Toronto Arab Film Festival showcases diverse selection this June

Updated 18 June 2025
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Toronto Arab Film Festival showcases diverse selection this June

DUBAI: The Toronto Arab Film Festival returns for its sixth annual edition with a diverse lineup from June 20 to 29.

“This year, we are screening over 50 films — both features and shorts — which is our largest number to date … it’s fulfilling to watch the development of the Canadian-Arab film industry in real time,” Rolla Tahir, a Sudanese filmmaker and co-founder of TAF, said.

This year’s program reflects the growing diversity and creative evolution of Arab cinema, with some well-known filmmakers participating.

“We’re seeing a notable rise in genre films, especially horror and sci-fi. For example, there’s a horror film from Tunisia and a short program dedicated entirely to sci-fi and horror,” Tahir said.

Participants this year include Lebanese filmmaker Mira Shabib with her film “Arze’” and “Back to Alexandria” by Tamer Ruggli starring Lebanese actress Nadine Labaki.

TAF has also become a valuable platform for professional development, offering networking opportunities for both emerging and established talent.

“This year, we’re introducing an informal industry meet-and-greet — a casual networking event with no structured pitches,” Tahir explained.

The event is designed to create a relaxed environment where Arab filmmakers can connect with industry professionals, ask candid questions, and introduce their projects without the pressure of formal presentations.

The festival’s mission may seem simple — to raise awareness of Arab cinema among Canadian audiences — but achieving that impact requires a deliberate strategy.

It is one that Tahir and her co-founders have refined over the years.

“Each year, we collaborate with other festivals to co-present films and expand outreach beyond Arab audiences,” she said.

For Tahir, the appeal of Arab cinema to non-Arab audiences comes naturally, thanks to the enduring quality and resilience of the work itself.

“What stands out is perseverance. Regardless of what’s happening in our countries or personal lives, Arab filmmakers continue telling their stories.”

It is that very perseverance — expressed through everything from harrowing documentaries to satirical comedies — that gives Arab filmmakers their distinct voice.

“I want people to know we’re still making films — and that we’re making different, bold, and innovative ones,” Tahir said.


Saudi Arabia’s Prince Faisal bin Salman joins King Charles at Royal Ascot opening

Updated 18 June 2025
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Saudi Arabia’s Prince Faisal bin Salman joins King Charles at Royal Ascot opening

DUBAI: Saudi Arabia’s Prince Faisal bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Al-Saud joined the UK’s King Charles III and Queen Camilla at Royal Ascot, one of the most prestigious equestrian racing events in the world.

Prince Faisal appeared alongside the British royals in the lead royal carriage that opened the official procession at the racecourse, just south of Windsor in the UK.  

Lady Sarah Keswick also joined the lead carriage alongside Prince Faisal, King Charles III and Queen Camilla. A close friend of the queen, she is a key member of the Queen’s Companions.

Following the royal procession, Prince Faisal joined the royal enclosure to watch the first day of races. (Getty Images)

Following the royal procession, Prince Faisal, a grandson of King Abdulaziz and son of King Salman, joined members of the British royal family, including Princess Beatrice and Zara Tindall, in the royal enclosure to watch the first day of races.

Royal Ascot remains a major fixture on the British social calendar, drawing global political and royal elites.

Arab royalty has played an increasingly visible role at the event in recent years. In 2024, Prince Salman bin Hamad Al-Khalifa of Bahrain — the crown prince and prime minister — attended the event as a guest of honor, representing Bahrain’s royal family.

Meanwhile, Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al-Thani, Emir of Qatar, has become a prominent figure in the racing world through his Wathnan Racing team. 

The organization has achieved notable success at Royal Ascot, including a win in the 2023 Gold Cup. 

Queen Camilla, King Charles III and Prince Saud bin Khalid Abdullah attended day 2 of Royal Ascot 2023 at Ascot Racecourse in Ascot, England. (Getty Images)

Prince Saud bin Khalid — son of the late Prince Khalid bin Abdullah Al-Saud, the legendary Saudi breeder behind Juddmonte Farms — was also seen attending the second day of the Royal Ascot in 2023, alongside King Charles III.


Designer Alina Anwar takes over Times Square

Updated 17 June 2025
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Designer Alina Anwar takes over Times Square

DUBAI: Dubai-based designer Alina Anwar, founder of Alina Anwar Couture, this week appeared on a digital billboard in Times Square, New York.

Well known for dressing celebrities in Hollywood and Bollywood, including Mariah Carey, Toni Braxton, Kareena Kapoor and Idina Menzel, Anwar has expanded her reach internationally with her gowns and suits.

The billboard featured Anwar, who is famous for her structured silhouettes and feminine designs, wearing a red sequined skirt from her own collection, accompanied by her brand’s statement: “My aim is to empower women through powerful dressing and to set them on a path of personal freedom and possibilities.”

In a statement she said: “I created this brand to empower women, to make them feel confident, unstoppable and seen. To have that vision now broadcast in Times Square is surreal, but it’s also just the beginning.”

Anwar’s brand is a luxury eveningwear label that creates gowns and tea-length dresses using contemporary couture techniques and French finishing. The brand’s pieces feature fine fabrics and detailed tailoring, and are made in the UAE.

In 2019, her work gained global attention when US singer Mariah Carey wore one of her designs in a remake of the “All I Want for Christmas Is You” music video, released to mark the song’s 25th anniversary. Carey wore a pine green, fully sequined, long-sleeved cocktail dress with a scooped neckline, designed by Anwar.

“I hope to see more and more Hollywood stars wear my brand and as a Dubai-based fashion label, I am so overwhelmed by the trust that they are giving me. I am here to advocate UAE-made products (that) are world-class,” Anwar said at the time.

Anwar is not the only regional figure to appear on a Times Square billboard.

Several Arab artists have featured in recent years.

Egyptian singer Amr Diab became the first Arab musical artist to appear on a Spotify billboard in Times Square in 2019.

Since then, others have followed, including Palestinian-Chilean singer Elyanna, who was featured in December as part of Spotify Arabia’s “EQUAL” campaign spotlighting female artists from the region.