Ramy Youssef's ‘#1 Happy Family USA' comedy hits close to home
TORONTO: American-Egyptian comedian and actor Ramy Youssef's first animated venture '#1 Happy Family USA,' on Amazon Prime Video, is a satirical take on the challenges faced by Muslim-American families in a post-9/11 world.
For the latest updates, follow us on Instagram @arabnews.lifestyle
Created with Pam Brady of 'South Park' fame, the eight-episode series opens with a darkly comic twist of fate — the Egyptian-American Hussein family is at the airport when news breaks of the World Trade Center attacks.
And from that moment, everything changes. The patriarch and owner of Hussein's Halal Cart is convinced that 'we must work harder at being like them. So, we blend in.'
To fit in, Hussein shaves his beard and pushes the family to 'look more American.' Meanwhile, mom Sharon (also known as Sharia) embraces her faith with renewed conviction by donning a hijab.
Twelve-year-old Rumi (voiced by Youssef) finds himself an outcast at school and is now forced to navigate not only the throes of middle school and adolescence, but also the harsh realities of a post-9/11 world.
Each character is so vividly portrayed that you can easily imagine your Arab teta or the local Pakistani imam in the mix. The well-timed vocal interjections and cultural (Arab and American pop-culture) references bring an extra layer of freshness and humor to the show.
Known for his Emmy-nominated 'Ramy,' Youssef continues to shed light on the Muslim-American experience.
The show evokes the familiar sentiment of fear. It captures the lived reality of Islamophobia and surveillance in Muslim communities, and explores related themes of identity struggles, microaggressions, and code-switching.
We can laugh at the Hussein family's antics, but the show serves as a stark reminder that in today's dystopian and polarized political climate, there is little humor to be found.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Saudi Gazette
18-06-2025
- Saudi Gazette
Prince Faisal bin Salman joins King Charles at Royal Ascot in London
Saudi Gazette report LONDON — Prince Faisal bin Salman bin Abdulaziz, Special Advisor to the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the King Abdulaziz Foundation, participated in the opening of the Royal Ascot Festival in London, one of the most prominent and oldest horse races in the world. Prince Faisal appeared alongside King Charles III and Queen Camilla in the first royal carriage leading the official procession, in a festive moment that brought together dignitaries from the British and Saudi royal families, drawing widespread attention from the audience and the British media. He attracted attention by appearing in traditional Saudi dress, rather than the formal suit expected for such an occasion, which is characterized by its refined British atmosphere. He participated in the procession, which was preceded by a royal horse-drawn carriage, in a scene that combined English tradition with Arab authenticity. This participation gave the opening a special character, reflecting the bonds of mutual respect and appreciation between Riyadh and London, particularly in the cultural and sporting fields, where equestrianism occupies a prominent place in the identity of both countries. Prince Faisal joined the Royal Pavilion to watch the first day of racing, alongside several members of the British royal family, including Princess Beatrice and Zara Ascot is a traditional event that brings together political and royal elites from around the world. It holds a significant symbolic place in British culture, with the festival days transformed into an elegant celebration of the sport of kings.
Leaders
11-06-2025
- Leaders
Fawerha Nostalgia: A Night of Music and Memories in Jeddah
Music, joy and memories are coming to Jeddah at the Fawerha Nostalgia – one of Jeddah Season's largest concerts. Taking place on June 13, 2025, Fawerha Nostalgia will bring a selection of the most famous stars in the 2000s to perform live at the Jeddah Superdome, taking the audiences on a heartfelt journey through the past. For over two hours, the stars of the golden decade (2000 to 2010) will play some of their all-time hits, dazzling audiences with their sweet melodies and vibrant songs that profoundly shaped their lives. On one stage, Arab and international music legends will perform their popular songs, under the theme 'Hits from 2000 to 2010,' amid nostalgic vibes, reviving pleasant memories and promising an unforgettable night at Jeddah Superdome. The exceptional night will feature iconic Arab stars, such as Ramy Gamal, Maya Nasri, Samo Zaen, Ahmed Batshan, Haytham Said, Iwan, Jannat, Youssef Al-Omani, and Ahmed Cherif. It also includes the Egyptian band Wama. Moreover, the mega star Massari and the British boy band Blue will deliver a highly-anticipated performance. مساري بنفسه يقولكم تعالو!الليلة المنتظرة قربت… فورها نوستالجيا 🔥جيل الطرب الجميل بيرجع لكم بصوت وإحساس 😍 احجز تذكرتك قبل لا تخلص 🎟️ #فورها_نوستالجيا #حفلات_جدة #مساري #ويبوك — | We're All About Fun (@webook) June 9, 2025 The participating stars have expressed excitement about the concert through videos on social media, inviting their fans to join them in Jeddah's special music event. At Fawerha Nostalgia, audiences will have a unique opportunity to relive cherished moments and connect with the soundtrack of their youth in a curated experience designed to celebrate a pivotal period in contemporary music. Short link : Post Views: 1
Leaders
07-06-2025
- Leaders
Prominent Figures Join Millions of Pilgrims on Arafat During Hajj 2025
In a powerful display of unity transcending nationality, rank and fame, prominent political, cultural, and sports figures joined millions of Muslim pilgrims on Arafat on Saturday to perform the most significant ritual of the annual Hajj pilgrimage. Among those taking part in Hajj 2025 were several high-profile leaders from the Islamic world, including Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu. Mauritanian President Mohamed Ould Cheikh El Ghazouani The gathering was not limited to political leaders. Public figures from the worlds of sport, entertainment, and media also participated, drawing widespread attention on social media under the banner 'Famous Hajj 2025.' Senegalese footballer Sadio Mané, who plays for Saudi club Al-Nassr, was among the most recognized personalities at this year's pilgrimage. Videos shared online showed him moving between the holy sites, warmly received by fellow pilgrims and fans. Several Egyptian celebrities were also among the pilgrims, including actors Ahmed El Sakka, Amr Saad, Ahmed Saad, and Hamada Helal. Egyptian celebrities from left to right Hamada Helal, Amr Saad, Ahmed El Sakka Actress Reham Haggag and television presenters Mofeeda Shiha and Doaa Farouk also performed the rites. Many of them documented their spiritual experiences on their official social media accounts. Human-interest story One of the most widely shared human-interest stories during Hajj 2025 involved Libyan youth activist Amer Al-Mahdi, known online as 'Amer Al-Libi.' Libyan youth activist Amer Al-Mahdi, known online as 'Amer Al-Libi' during his journey His journey became a symbol of faith and perseverance. Initially barred from boarding his flight due to a passport name discrepancy, Amer remained at the airport, convinced he would still reach Mecca. In an unexpected twist, the aircraft returned due to a technical issue. While the pilot initially refused to allow Amer on board due to logistical concerns, continued delays prompted a change of heart. In a rare gesture, the pilot announced, 'By God, I will not take off until Amer is on board.' Amer was eventually allowed to board and completed the pilgrimage. His story has since gone viral, resonating with many as a testament to resilience and belief. Related stories: Hajj Guide: Day of Arafat Hajj 2025: Saudi Crown Prince Lauds Success in Pilgrims Service Saudi Crown Prince Arrives in Mina to Oversee Hajj Services Short link : Post Views: 6
