Barkhad Abdi Quotes

Powerful Barkhad Abdi for Daily Growth

About Barkhad Abdi

Barkhad Abdi, born on April 4, 1985, in Mogadishu, Somalia, is a renowned actor who gained international acclaim with his debut role as Abduwali Shirikaban in the critically-acclaimed film "Captain Phillips" (2013). Before venturing into acting, Abdi worked as a fisherman and a taxi driver. His life took an unexpected turn when he was spotted by director and producer Marshall Curry while working at a Minneapolis Mall, mistaking him for a security guard. Impressed by his natural talent, Curry cast him in the short film "Banana Oatmeal" (2012). The success of "Banana Oatmeal" led Abdi to be chosen for the role of Abduwali Shirikaban in "Captain Phillips," directed by Paul Greengrass. His powerful performance earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Supporting Actor, making history as the first Somali actor to be nominated in this category. Abdi's acting career took off post-"Captain Phillips." He has since appeared in films like "Rickenstorm" (2014), "Eye in the Sky" (2015), and "Blunt Force Trauma" (2017). His role in "Midnight Return" (2018) marked his first leading role. Despite his success, Abdi remains grounded and dedicated to raising awareness about the ongoing struggles in Somalia. He continues to inspire not just through his acting, but also through his philanthropic efforts. His life story serves as a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and the transformative potential of art.

Interpretations of Popular Quotes

"I'm just grateful for everything that has happened, and I hope it continues."

This quote from Barkhad Abdi expresses gratitude for his past experiences and successes, while also hoping for more positive developments in the future. It reflects a humble, appreciative attitude towards life's opportunities, recognizing that they are gifts to be cherished and built upon.


"I never imagined myself as an actor or in front of a camera."

This statement suggests that, prior to his acting career, Barkhad Abdi did not envision himself as an actor or in the entertainment industry. It underscores the idea that people can achieve remarkable things even when they initially perceive themselves as being outside of a particular field or role. In this case, it highlights how Abdi's unexpected rise to fame as an actor serves as an inspiration for others who may not have considered pursuing careers in acting or entertainment.


"When I was younger, we didn't have much money, but we had love."

This quote emphasizes the idea that while material possessions can provide temporary comfort or security, it is love that truly enriches our lives and creates lasting happiness. For Barkhad Abdi, growing up in a home without much money may have presented challenges, but the love shared within the household was a valuable and enduring asset. This sentiment underscores the importance of relationships, empathy, and emotional connection as essential components of human well-being.


"I think acting is very powerful because it can change people's minds and hearts."

This quote emphasizes the profound influence that acting has on society. By portraying characters, actors have the ability to evoke emotions in audiences and potentially shift their perspectives by presenting diverse narratives or thought-provoking situations. In essence, acting can be a powerful tool for fostering empathy, sparking dialogue, and ultimately changing hearts and minds towards greater understanding and compassion.


"You know, I am just a taxi driver from Minnesota, but this is amazing."

This quote expresses a sense of surprise and gratitude by Barkhad Abdi, who, despite being an ordinary taxi driver, found himself in the extraordinary world of Hollywood filmmaking when he was cast as a pirate captain in "Captain Phillips." The words indicate his initial disbelief at this turn of events, yet they also express awe and delight at the new experiences and opportunities that have come his way. It underscores the idea that one's background or starting point does not necessarily determine their potential for success in life.


I like 'The Usual Suspects'. Great film. I also like 'Scarface', films like that. Lots of gangster films. I really like watching all kinds of films, dramas, romance. I'll watch comedies. I like Al Pacino, Robert De Niro, Denzel Washington, Chris Rock, Dave Chappelle. I'd like to meet them.

- Barkhad Abdi

Romance, Dave, De Niro, Robert

I used to play football all the time. In the U.S., people don't play football, so I had to learn basketball. Looking back, that's what I like about my life - doing new things, having a new perspective.

- Barkhad Abdi

Looking Back, My Life, Play, Play Football

When I was leaving Yemen to come to America, things were tough. My dad had just been laid off, and it was a challenge. When I lived in Yemen, I thought America was a perfect place. Everything was bigger and better. I dreamed big. The American dream, you know? You have to work hard for your dream to come true.

- Barkhad Abdi

Thought, Big, Been, Yemen

When you work with a great director, you realise you are far from being a director.

- Barkhad Abdi

Work, Director, Realise, Great Director

I left Somalia when I was seven years old, but I witnessed a whole year in a war.

- Barkhad Abdi

Year, Left, Witnessed, Somalia

I would DJ pool parties in Minneapolis, but I never swam there!

- Barkhad Abdi

Never, DJ, Would, Minneapolis

What I believe will make my acting career successful going forward is hard work. I like to challenge myself. Then it's the people I meet and choosing the projects I want to work on correctly. There's a lot of characters I can play.

- Barkhad Abdi

Play, Career, Projects, Acting Career

I was never interested in becoming an actor. I was directing videos. I was never into acting. I was into shooting music videos. I've only ever been behind the camera. Never in front of it.

- Barkhad Abdi

Behind, Been, Becoming, Directing

I don't see myself only as a Somali character. I think of myself as an actor, and if the job fits me and I like the story, I will go for it.

- Barkhad Abdi

Think, Go For It, I Think, Somali

I just want to keep acting and better my craft and see how far it goes.

- Barkhad Abdi

Want, Goes, How Far, Craft

It is weird. A lot of people try to ask me political questions. I'm not a politician.

- Barkhad Abdi

Weird, Ask, Lot, Politician

I was lucky enough to have parents that took me out from country to country and go to school and learn how to be a better person.

- Barkhad Abdi

Lucky, Country, Took, Better Person

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