Zeeko Zaki has become a household name thanks to his role as Special Agent Omar Adom “OA” Zidan on CBS’s hit series FBI. But the actor’s journey to primetime television stardom was far from easy. From dramatic personal transformation to breaking new ground for representation in Hollywood, Zaki’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and quiet revolution.
Landing FBI
When Dick Wolf and CBS cast Zeeko Zaki as OA in 2018, the decision made history: he became one of the first Arab-American actors to headline a network procedural drama. For Zaki, who emigrated from Egypt to the United States as a child, the role was more than just a career milestone — it was an opportunity to reshape perceptions.
“Playing OA isn’t just about the cases,” Zaki has said in interviews. “It’s about showing audiences that heroes come in all backgrounds.” His portrayal has resonated with fans who see in him both authenticity and strength, while also challenging stereotypes often associated with Middle Eastern characters on American television.
The 100-Pound Transformation
Before stepping into the spotlight, Zaki underwent a remarkable physical transformation, shedding 100 pounds through diet, fitness, and discipline. While his weight loss initially grabbed headlines, he has consistently emphasized that the journey was about more than appearance — it was about reclaiming confidence and health.
“The biggest change wasn’t physical,” he has explained. “It was mental. It was about proving to myself that I could take control and make lasting changes.” His transformation also opened doors in Hollywood, where image often dictates opportunity, though Zaki insists he wants to redefine those boundaries.
Breaking Barriers in Hollywood
As one of the few Arab-American leads in network television, Zaki is acutely aware of the significance of his role. Hollywood has long struggled with representation, often limiting Middle Eastern actors to stereotypical portrayals. By playing a principled FBI agent — a character defined by his integrity and loyalty — Zaki is actively rewriting the narrative.
“It’s about representation,” he noted. “Growing up, I didn’t see myself on TV. Now, I want kids who look like me to know they belong here too.”
Looking Ahead
Now in his seventh season with FBI, Zaki shows no signs of slowing down. He continues to bring depth to OA, balancing the action-driven demands of the series with the humanity that makes the character resonate. Beyond television, he has hinted at aspirations for film roles and projects that further expand diversity in storytelling.
Fans, meanwhile, remain devoted not only to OA’s storylines but to Zaki’s personal journey, which embodies the very perseverance and resilience his character often displays on screen.
The Bottom Line
Zeeko Zaki’s rise is more than just a Hollywood success story — it’s a testament to personal transformation, cultural progress, and the power of representation. From his weight loss journey to his groundbreaking role on FBI, Zaki continues to inspire both within and beyond the entertainment industry.
