"The Groundlings Theatre & School recently celebrated its 8th Annual Diversity Festival, an event that has become a cornerstone of the Los Angeles comedy scene. This year, the festival brought together a diverse array of voices, showcasing creativity, community, and the spirit of comedy that has made The Groundlings a beloved institution. Among the featured performers was actor and filmmaker Walid Chaya, who brought his own brand of energy and originality to the event, contri

"A beloved local tradition celebrating Broadway music, comedy, and community. The troop marked their 16th anniversary this past April. Since 2009, the weekly event has grown into a must-see spectacle, showcasing projected Broadway musical videos with MuMo’s hysterical, simultaneous re-enactments of the clips. Audience participation is strongly encouraged, transforming the night into a full theatrical experience." - Mike Pingel, WEHO Times

"For Chaya, returning to the MOTY gathering offered both a creative recharge and an opportunity to reconnect with peers across film, television, and fashion. With several new projects in development, the evening served as a timely reminder of the community and momentum that fuel the entertainment industry."- Ellora Cummins, Level Up Magazine

Last week, I had an incredible experience attending the American Film Market (AFM) in Santa Monica, CA, from November 12–17, 2025. It was amazing to meet so many talented filmmakers and production companies, exchange ideas, and connect with creative professionals from around the world. During the event, I had the opportunity to pitch both my upcoming projects, Crazy Rich Arabs and Darn It Darla!, and received great feedback from industry insiders. AFM is always such a vibra

On November 14, 2025, I had the pleasure of attending GQ’s Men of the Year celebration at the iconic Chateau Marmont. The night brought together Hollywood’s top creators, innovators, and tastemakers — all gathered to honor this year’s cultural game-changers.

Watch me perform in The Groundlings School Diversity Scholarship Showcase this Saturday! Grateful for this opportunity and for championing diverse voices in comedy.

"Studio For Performing Arts LA stands out as a hub where Hollywood’s next generation trains with empathy, skill, and professionalism. Whether guiding a newcomer through their first self-tape, mentoring a seasoned actor through a career transition, or helping a student from halfway across the world find their voice on screen, Chaya’s studio reflects a simple but powerful belief: great art begins with opportunity.

"Studio For Performing Arts LA stands out as a hub where Hollywood’s next generation trains with empathy, skill, and professionalism. Whether guiding a newcomer through their first self-tape, mentoring a seasoned actor through a career transition, or helping a student from halfway across the world find their voice on screen, Chaya’s studio reflects a simple but powerful belief: great art begins with opportunity.

"As a filmmaker rooted in both Hollywood and the Middle East, Walid Chaya’s presence at Murex D’Or was more than a red-carpet moment; it was a bridge between industries, cultures, and creative visions. His commitment to telling authentic, globally resonant Arab stories reinforces the growing influence of Middle Eastern voices in world cinema." - Prabhat Dewangan, UAE Stories

"Walid Chaya has added one more gem to his unending streak of genius work with his new project, “The Barent Trap.” -Level Up Magazine

Crazy Rich Arabs has been officially selected as a Quarterfinalist in the 4th Edition of the Your Script Produced! International Screenwriting Competition and Talent Discovery Event. This recognition places the script among standout entries in a prestigious competition that connects writers with producers, executives, and talent across the global entertainment industry.

Crazy Rich Arabs has been officially selected as a Quarterfinalist in the Scriptation Showcase Script Competition. The recognition highlights the screenplay as one of the standout entries in a field known for celebrating diverse voices and original storytelling.

If you’re an actor, filmmaker, or just someone who loves powerful storytelling, the Richmond International Film Festival (RIFF) is about to deliver two can’t-miss screenings you’ll want front-row seats for. This September, VCU arts Theatre alumni-turned-filmmakers are returning to RVA to share their latest work—films that have been making waves from Hollywood all the way back home.

If you’re an actor, filmmaker, or creative spirit looking for career inspiration, this is one event you’ll want to mark in bold on your calendar. On Friday, September 26, join award-winning filmmakers and proud VCU alumni Walid Chaya and Collin Chute for an exciting RVA Alumni Q&A at VCU arts Theatre. This isn’t your typical lecture—think of it as a behind-the-scenes conversation where you can ask questions, swap ideas, and walk away with real-world strategies to fuel your

Harriet, a once-promising filmmaker, is stuck in the suburbs of New Jersey. Alienated from her cheating husband and spurned by her teenage daughter, she secretly enrolls in film school to revive her long-lost dream.

Actors, are you struggling with your demo reel or wondering how to start one from scratch? You're not alone. Whether you have zero footage or outdated clips, this free webinar is your chance to learn how to build a reel that casting directors actually want to watch. Join award-winning filmmaker Walid Chaya and guest director Jorge-Luis Pallo (best known from Pretty Little Liars, The Secret Life of the American Teenager, and more) for a powerful online session that breaks

Harriet, a once-promising filmmaker, is stuck in the suburbs of New Jersey. Alienated from her cheating husband and spurned by her teenage daughter, she secretly enrolls in film school to revive her long-lost dream.

Directed by Walid Chaya, "Darn It Darla!" is a short film where he stars as a manipulative talent manager, following a former child stars...

Ready to gain online publicity, interviews, articles and become known in casting? Are you using Instagram, Twitter, or IMDb to network for..

Watch Walid Chaya with Miriam Shore in the World Premire of MAGIC HOUR, an Official Selection of the Berkshire International Film Festival.