One Last Thing: Razane Jammal on pet peeves and the smell that takes her back to childhood

The British-Lebanese actress answers Luxury magazine's quick-fire questions

Razane Jammal is the only Arab actress to enter the DC Comics Universe. Photo: Patrick Sawaya

For about a decade and a half, British-Lebanese actress Razane Jammal has been charming film and television audiences around the world. Her recent successes include a star turn as Sara in MBC’s 2023 hit Al Thaman and as Emily in record-breaking blockbuster Kira & El Gin.

She is the only Arab actress to enter the DC Comics Universe, appearing in Netflix’s Neil Gaiman adaptation The Sandman as Lyta Hall. She is also a Dior ambassador across fashion and beauty and a brand ambassador for Cartier.

She is currently shooting Mohamed Diab’s coming Black Lion, in which she stars alongside Mohamed Ramadan. On the set of her latest film, we ask her to answer Luxury magazine’s One Last Thing.

What is your favourite time of day and why?

I love the sunset. It gives me a sense of peace.

What is your favourite restaurant anywhere in the world?

Em Sherif has the best Lebanese food in the world.

When was the first time you realised your parents were human?

My parents will always be superhuman to me.

What do you want to be when you grow up?

An astronaut, of course!

Do you have any hidden talents?

That is for me to know and for you to find out.

What is your favourite book?

It is a tie between The Little Prince and The Prophet. The Little Prophet.

What type of music can’t you stand?

Any type when I’m trying to focus on a task.

What puts you in a bad mood?

Politics.

What can’t you live without?

Human connection.

Who are your dream dinner guests?

If I could invite anyone from the past, it would be my favourite movie stars to chat about cinema. Otherwise, I’d gather world leaders for a serious discussion – though, honestly, that sounds more like a nightmare.

On the sofa or out with friends?

On the sofa with friends.

What smell takes you straight back to childhood?

Lavender reminds me of my sitto (grandmother).

What food takes you back to childhood?

Merry Cream. Specifically strawberry and vanilla.

Which city do you love but would hate to live in?

I can find magic anywhere.

Have you ever been on a motorcycle?

When my sister and I were children, my dad would take us to school on his bike every day.

Can you play a musical instrument?

Born to be a drummer, raised to play the piano.

Any words to live by?

If it’s meant to be, it will be. And if it isn’t, something bigger and better is waiting for you.

Biggest pet peeve?

Make chewing sounds or loud noises when we’re on the phone if you want to sever ties with me.

Do you believe in aliens?

I am an alien.

Your favourite Arabic word?

Yalla!

How do you take your tea?

No sugar and as often as a typical Brit.

What makes you cry?

Full moons and cartoons.

What do social algorithms think you’re interested in?

The algo thinks I’m a cat with a degree in psychology who loves the cosmos, has a deep interest in mental health and a penchant for before/after celeb photos. Only one of these is incorrect.

The most niche thing you watch on YouTube?

Baby sloths getting showered and then hung to dry.

TikTok or Instagram?

TikTok for fun, Instagram for work.

Something about you that would surprise people?

If I did stand-up comedy, I’d be cancelled.

The last thing you did for the first time?

I did skydiving for the first time. And the last time.

A version of this interview first appeared in Luxury magazine in print on September 12.