Baz Ashmawy on Growing Up Without Representation on Irish TV
Baz Ashmawy is back with another season of his engaging comedy-drama, Faithless, which premiered on October 8 on Virgin Media Play and Virgin Media One. This second season continues the journey of Sam, a father navigating the complexities of loss, parenting, and identity.
Baz Ashmawy: A Voice for Representation
Growing up in Ireland, Baz Ashmawy faced a significant lack of representation on television. This influenced his desire to create relatable characters in Faithless. He wants viewers from diverse backgrounds to see themselves on screen, highlighting that familial connections often surpass superficial differences.
The Protagonist’s Journey
In Season 2, Sam is a widowed father of three, grappling with the chaos of single parenting while mourning his late wife. Ashmawy’s portrayal of Sam captures the challenges faced by parents, balancing work and emotional recovery. Viewers can expect both humorous and poignant moments as he navigates his new reality.
Family and Support
The show’s screening took place at the Lighthouse cinema in Dublin, where Ashmawy was surrounded by his family, including his partner Tanja and his six children. Although Ashmawy’s mother, Nancy, a source of inspiration and support, could not attend, he acknowledged her significant role in his life. Her encouragement has allowed him to embrace his creativity without fear of judgment.
Social Commentary
- Baz weaves social commentary into the comedy.
- Sam’s witty friend, Cormac, experiences a mishap at work highlighting workplace dynamics and racial sensitivity.
- Ashmawy believes it’s essential to engage in light-hearted banter with friends when it’s rooted in mutual understanding.
Ashmawy’s Career and Work Ethic
As Baz turned 50 last April, he reflected on his career milestones. Having achieved success with shows like How to Kill Your Mammy, he maintains a forward-looking mindset. He appreciates his creative journey yet remains driven for further accomplishments.
Ashmawy emphasizes the importance of hard work, inspired by his mother, who juggled two jobs as a single parent. His character, Sam, grapples with the demands of fatherhood while being humorous and relatable.
In conclusion, Faithless not only delivers laughter but also invites discussions on serious topics such as grief and identity. Baz Ashmawy’s dedication to creating authentic characters makes this series a must-watch for anyone seeking representation and relatable storytelling.
