Muslim representation in TV and film

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As Islamophobia Awareness Month highlights prejudice faced by Muslim communities, the

question of representation in film and television remains crucial. For decades, Islam and

Muslims have too often been reduced to negative stereotypes. Yet recent years have seen

promising signs of change.

A turning point came when actor Riz Ahmed delivered a powerful speech in the House of

Commons, condemning harmful portrayals of Muslims in the media. This led to the creation of The Riz Test, a benchmark for assessing Muslim representation on screen. If one Muslim character is reduced to a negative stereotype the production fails, which is a significant push for more authentic portrayals of Islam.

Progress has also been marked by achievements such as Mahershala Ali’s historic Oscar

win for Moonlight, making him the first Muslim actor to receive the award. His journey

converting to Islam in 2001 despite facing disapproval from his family and friends has helped inspire others. Earlier works like the 2001 film Ali, celebrating Muhammad Ali’s legacy and his connection to the Nation of Islam, also offered a rare respectful portrayal of Muslim identity rooted in activism.

Somali model/ actress Iman once observed, “The West does not understand the history and privilege of wearing a hijab.” Her words reflect a frustration among Muslim women whose choices are often misinterpreted on screen. Channel 4’s We Are Lady Parts offers a refreshing contrast by portraying hijabi women as empowered and expressive, reclaiming control over their narrative.

Still, many feel the representation is regressive. Viewer Zahra Talib criticises Ackley Bridge

for its portrayal of Islam. For example, Nas Paracha’s decision to wear the hijab stems from

social pressure rather than faith. “They don’t represent us properly,” she says, arguing that writers missed the chance to depict hijabs as an act of choice. Similarly, the romantic comedy What’s Love Got to Do with It? has faced criticism for exploring “assisted marriage” through a “white lens,” perpetuating oversimplified cultural stereotypes.

Despite ongoing challenges, there is growing recognition that representation matters. When Muslims are shown as complex and multidimensional individuals, it helps dismantle

prejudice and create understanding. As Islamophobia Awareness Month continues, it is

becoming evident that film and television have the power either to reinforce bias or to break it, depending on whose stories they choose to tell and how truthfully they are told.

Edited by Gabriella Whiston