Rayan Hayek is a name that resonates deeply in Lebanon’s media landscape. With a journey that began at just 12 years old, he has rapidly ascended to become one of the most influential media personalities in the Arab world. From creating humorous videos on Instagram to hosting top-tier celebrity interviews, Rayan’s evolution is nothing short of inspiring.
Early Beginnings: From Instagram Posts to Media Stardom
Rayan Hayek’s story starts back in 2018, at a time when the concept of influencers was still gaining momentum, especially in Lebanon. While most people were just beginning to explore the potential of social media platforms, Rayan was already standing out. Starting with funny and relatable videos, he quickly captured the attention of viewers. By the time he was 16, Rayan had accumulated over 100,000 followers—a milestone that was impressive for that era!
This early start marked the beginning of what would become a successful career in the media. His engaging content, combined with his natural charisma, made Rayan a star even before many others had the chance to fully grasp the influencer phenomenon.
Ramadan 2021: A Game-Changing Shift
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the world in unprecedented ways, but for Rayan, it became an opportunity to pivot. During the lockdown in Ramadan 2021, he introduced a new concept on his Instagram: celebrity interviews. These weren’t just any interviews. Rayan was already a familiar face to many celebrities, thanks to his growing social media presence, and they were eager to join his show.
Over the course of 30 episodes, Rayan managed to host a diverse range of high-profile guests, including actors like Badih Abou Chakra, Youssef El Khal, and political personalities such as Paula Yacoubian.
His conversational skills quickly shone through, making him a natural host. Viewers were drawn to his relatable and down-to-earth approach to interviewing celebrities, making these sessions feel more personal than most.
Noujoum on Stage: Pushing Boundaries
In 2022, Rayan took his media career to the next level with the launch of Noujoum on Stage. This was more than just a celebrity interview show. It was a platform where politics and media intersected, with Rayan hosting prominent figures from both spheres. Politicians like Mark Daou, Gebran Bassil, and Michel Mouawad, as well as figures like Joe Maalouf and Marwa Khalil, graced the show.
One of the standout moments of Noujoum on Stage came with his final episode featuring Gebran Bassil. The episode gained immense attention, trending on Twitter and becoming a cultural moment. It was a rare glimpse into the personal side of a politician who was usually surrounded by political rhetoric. The success of this episode further cemented Rayan’s status as a media force to be reckoned with.
The Birth of Baynetna: The Human Side of Celebrities
After a brief break, Rayan made his highly anticipated return to the media scene in April 2023 with the launch of Baynetna. The show offered a fresh approach, focusing on discovering the human side of celebrities. Unlike traditional celebrity interviews, Baynetna explored the emotions, struggles, and personal stories behind the glamorous public faces.
Since its launch, Rayan has interviewed over 60 renowned personalities, including Ricardo Karam, Carmen Lebbos, Chaker khazzal, Karen Wazzen and Pamela El Kik. His ability to get celebrities to open up in a way that feels both natural and intimate has been widely praised. This unique positive approach to celebrity culture has contributed to the show’s growing popularity, further solidifying Rayan’s reputation as one of Lebanon’s leading media personalities.
Social Campaigns: Making a Difference in the Community
Rayan’s influence extends beyond the media. He has also been involved in several impactful social campaigns that align with his desire to use his platform for good. His dedication to raising awareness for important causes has made him a respected figure in Lebanese society.
One of his most notable contributions was his partnership with An-Nahar, one of Lebanon’s leading newspapers, for a bullying awareness campaign. He also visited the Children’s Cancer Center of Lebanon (CCCL) to support cancer awareness, further highlighting his commitment to giving back to the community.
In addition, Rayan moderated various important events, including the “Youth is Future” press conference with Mentor Arabia to empower young people. He also took part in “Women’s Day Awareness” at USEK and inspired the youth as the only Lebanese speaker at the Millionaire Academy panel at USJ. His involvement in these initiatives has made him an influential voice in pushing for positive change in Lebanon.
Furthermore, Rayan participated in the Art Heals campaign, a collaboration with painter Adriana Hajj, which used art therapy to help displaced Lebanese children overcome trauma. These efforts demonstrate Rayan’s belief in the power of media to create positive societal shifts.
Recognition and Achievements
Rayan Hayek’s hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed. His impressive career has earned him numerous accolades, cementing his place as a leading figure in the Arab entertainment industry.
In 2024, he was featured on the prestigious Forbes Middle East 30 Under 30 list for his contributions to the entertainment sector. His influence in the media has also earned him the title of Best Influencer in Lebanon at the 2023 MIAA event, further validating his impact in the digital space.
Rayan’s accolades didn’t stop there. He was honored with the Iraq Prize of Honor by the Iraqi Press Syndicate and was awarded by USJ (Université Saint-Joseph) in collaboration with the Millionaire’s Academy in Lebanon in 2024. Additionally, he was nominated for Best Arab Influencer at the 2023 Joy Awards, underscoring his influence across the Arab world.
Upcoming Plans: Expanding Horizons
Rayan Hayek’s future plans are as exciting as his past achievements. Baynetna continues to air weekly,but that’s not all,he is also preparing to launch a new daily show that will focus on the human side of everyday people, rather than celebrities. This new venture will focus on inspiring individuals with unique stories, showcasing their personal journeys and experiences.
What’s more, Rayan has big plans to expand his reach beyond the Arab region. He is already working on a French version of Baynetna, with several French artists confirmed for future appearances. This international expansion marks an exciting new chapter in Rayan’s career, and it promises to further elevate his status as a global media influencer.
Conclusion: A Journey of Inspiration
Rayan Hayek’s journey from an emerging media talent to one of the leading positive media figures in the Arab world is a testament to his hard work, passion, and unwavering commitment to his craft. Through his media ventures and social initiatives, he has not only entertained but also inspired countless people, making a significant impact on the lives of his audience.
As he continues to evolve, Rayan’s vision for the future is clear: to use his platform to promote positive media,by telling human stories, supporting important causes, and inspiring others to pursue their dreams. With a growing list of achievements, upcoming shows, and international expansions, Rayan Hayek is undoubtedly a name to watch in the coming years. Do follow him on Instagram.
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