Mahershala Ali

Mahershala Ali, born Mahershalalhashbaz Gilmore, converted to Islam in 2000, changing his last name to Ali. While his faith is a significant part of his identity, it firmly places him outside the tribe for our purposes.

Ali's mother is an ordained Baptist minister, and his father was an actor who appeared on Broadway. His lineage is rooted in the African-American experience, with no discernible connections to the ancient Israelites.

Despite the lack of Jewish identity or origin, Ali's incredible acting talent, culminating in two Best Supporting Actor Oscars for Moonlight and Green Book, certainly earns him some kvell-worthiness. He's one of those rare talents who elevates every project he touches, and we can all appreciate that.