This actor is starring in the biggest film of his career. He’s also fighting deportation

Key Points:

• Laith Nakli, a 56-year-old actor known for roles alongside Mahershala Ali and in the series "Ramy," faces potential deportation after his long-closed immigration case was reopened amid the Trump administration’s immigration crackdown.
• Nakli’s legal troubles stem from a 2000 steroid-related conviction, which he now seeks to have vacated, arguing his original lawyer failed to advise him of the immigration consequences of his plea.
• Despite critical acclaim for his acting and mentoring work, Nakli lives with ongoing fear and uncertainty about his immigration status, compounded by a recent denial from US District Judge Frederic Block to vacate his conviction.
• Nakli’s immigration hearing was postponed until December 2027, giving him and his attorney more time to prepare, but the prolonged legal battle continues to weigh heavily on him and his family.
• Supporters emphasize Nakli’s rehabilitation and contributions to the arts, while his legal team argues deportation to Syria would put him at risk due to his public profile challenging political and religious norms there.