Popcorn Wire has learned from Deadline that Hiam Abbass will be honored with the European Film Academy’s award for European Achievement in World Cinema. The celebrated Palestinian actress and director will accept the special recognition at the 39th European Film Awards ceremony, scheduled for January 16, 2027, in Athens, where she will be the honorary guest.

Abbass's journey in cinema began after her family's displacement in 1948, leading her to start her acting career at the Palestinian National Theatre El-Hakawati in East Jerusalem. Her move to Europe in the late 1980s, settling in Paris, marked a pivotal turn, opening doors to a prolific international career. Her first lead role came in 1989 with Ariane Mnouchkine's La nuit miraculeuse, setting the stage for an impressive filmography.

With over 100 film credits to her name, Abbass has collaborated with renowned directors and starred in critically acclaimed features across various genres. Her notable performances include Raja Amari's Satin Rouge, Hany Abu-Assad’s Oscar-nominated Paradise Now, Tom McCarthy’s independent hit The Visitor, and Denis Villeneuve’s sci-fi epic Blade Runner 2049. These roles underscore her versatility and ability to captivate audiences in both European and Hollywood productions.

This honorary award builds upon previous recognition from the European Film Academy, where Abbass has been a familiar face. She received nominations for the People’s Choice Award in 2005 for her role in Eran Riklis's Syrian Bride and for European Actress in 2008 for another Riklis collaboration, Lemon Tree, which also earned her an Asia Pacific Screen Award. Her deep connection to cinema extends to her family, as her daughter Lina Soualem’s documentary Bye Bye Tiberias, which delves into Abbass's life and choices, was nominated for the European Film Awards in 2024.

Beyond her acting prowess, Hiam Abbass has also stepped into the director’s chair. Her film Inheritance garnered attention at festivals such as Gijón, São Paulo, and Venice Days in 2012, further cementing her status as a multifaceted artist dedicated to the craft of filmmaking. This upcoming award is a fitting tribute to a career that has not only entertained but also brought diverse stories and perspectives to the global stage.