American stars that you didn't know are Muslims

Famed American fashion model Bella Hadid hit headlines earlier this year after she had announced that she was a ‘proud Muslim’.

In an interview, the 21-year-old model revealed that her father was a Palestinian refugee and was an observant Muslim, disclosing her faith for first time as she had never spoken about her religion publicly.

However, there are several names in Hollywood, either believed to be ‘Muslims’ or have deeply rooted origins of monotheistic religion.

Here are some names in the entertainment industry that have been somehow related with Islam.

Shohreh Aghdashloo

The 65-year-old Iranian-American actress has appeared in several films. She rose to fame after her role in 1977 movie ‘The Report’.

She is a well acclaimed star in the US despite her films being banned in home country (Iran).

Aghashloo was born in an Iranian Muslim family. The critics have been praised her performance in 2003 movie House of Sand and Fog.

Ellen Burstyn

Ellen Burstyn, an American actress, was raised as Christian by her family and remained a firm believer in God.

However, the actress converted to Islam after studying Sufism.

In an interview, she admitted to be in close contact with preachers of Sufi Islam. Moreover, her Sufi teacher Inayat Khan gave her the name Hidaya, meaning source of guidance.

Lindsay Lohan

Lindsay Lohan is an American singer and actress who featured in movies like Mean Girls, The Canyons and Bobby.

She was reported to study Islam and people speculated that she had converted officially.

However, she neither confirmed nor denied these rumours.

Akon

The hip-hop star announced in press statements in the 2000s that he is Muslim. His real name is Aliaune Damala Badara. Akon also claims that he is a “spiritual man”.

The famous singer allegedly has three wives, as Islam allows men to marry up to four women.

Janet Jackson

Young sister of popstar Michael Jackson, Janet, reportedly converted to Islam in 2013 after marrying Wissam Al-Mana, Qatar-based Muslim billionaire.

She has sung numerous songs including Scream in which she collaborated with her brother.

Being a prominent figure in the Hollywood and entertainment industry for over 30 years, she enjoys her roles as vocalist, songwriter, dancer and performer.

Nazanin Boniadi

The Iran-born US actress and activist is known for her numerous roles in American TV series including Scandal, Homeland, Grey s Anatomy, How I Met Your Mother, Suits and others.

However, she calls herself a non-practising Muslim.

Boniadi has dedicated a large part of her life in civil rights activism and Church of Scientology.