Reda Elazouar: A Moroccan in Hollywood Facing Mark Wahlberg

In this sequel to the 2023 action comedy, the plot moves to London. Mark Wahlberg reprises his role as Dan Morgan, a former assassin caught up in his past as he tries to celebrate Christmas with his daughter Nina. It is there that he discovers the existence of Omar, played by Reda Elazouar. This character, Nina’s boyfriend, is presented as a multi-talented young man who speaks English and French with a British accent. The dynamic of the film largely rests on the interaction between this protective father and the young suitor, who must fight to gain his approval.

Obtaining this role is the result of a rigorous selection process and intense preparation. While filming a series in Budapest, Reda Elazouar went through a series of Zoom auditions, followed by stunt tests and a reading to test the chemistry with his on-screen partner. Once the role was secured, the actor had five weeks to prepare physically, surrounded by trainers and a nutritionist to master parkour in particular.

One scriptural detail is particularly close to the actor’s heart: the origin of his character. Initially written as Franco-Algerian, the role of Omar was rewritten at Reda Elazouar’s request to become Moroccan. "I wanted to represent my country with the opportunity that had been given to me," he explains, emphasizing the privilege of being able to offer a positive image of Morocco in a production of such magnitude.