Actor Riz Ahmed, winner of an Oscar, shares his feelings about a health issue experienced during the filming of Star Wars, stating, "I continued to deteriorate..."

Riz Ahmed, the acclaimed British actor, has had an extraordinary journey that intertwines his personal life with his professional career. In a revealing interview on the Podcrushed podcast, co-hosted by actor Penn Badgley, Ahmed opened up about a profound and challenging experience that left him uncertain about his future but also brought about a deep transformation.

Ahmed's illness was physically demanding and required a prolonged process to rebuild his strength. The actor described it as "super scary and intense," yet he experienced a rare sense of peace during this difficult time. Despite feeling like he was going to lose his life, Ahmed felt the most grateful, at peace, and content.

This illness profoundly changed his perspective on life, deepening his connection to his role in the critically acclaimed film 'Sound of Metal' (2019). The emotional arc of the movie, which chronicles the journey of a heavy metal drummer who loses his hearing, mirrored Ahmed's own confrontation with loss and acceptance. This deeply personal experience undoubtedly contributed to his powerful portrayal, earning him critical acclaim and an Academy Award for Best Actor.

During the production of "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story," Ahmed fell seriously ill and was hospitalized for a brief period. Though the exact timing during the production was not specified, this illness also left him extremely exhausted. Despite these challenges, Ahmed expressed a newfound awareness of the things he has and a profound sense of gratitude.

Reflecting on his illness, Ahmed stated that he realized he doesn't control his body. This realization, coupled with the deep kind of grief, fear, terror, liberation, gratitude, and acceptance he experienced, has undoubtedly shaped him as an artist.

Ahmed's bravery in sharing his personal journey serves as a reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of art. His career, marked by his roles in 'Rogue One: A Star Wars Story' and 'Sound of Metal,' continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide.

Actor Riz Ahmed, winner of an Oscar, shares his feelings about a health issue experienced during the filming of Star Wars, stating, "I continued to deteriorate..."