I shocked my parents with a lot of things, whether it was becoming an actor or when I was dating someone outside the Egyptian community or when I moved away from home before getting married.

In this quote, Mena Massoud reflects on how his life choices often surprised or shocked his parents, highlighting the generational and cultural differences between him and his family. He specifically mentions several key moments in his life that went against traditional expectations, such as becoming an actor, dating someone outside the Egyptian community, and moving away from home before getting married. Each of these decisions represented a break from the cultural norms and values that his parents might have expected him to follow.

Massoud's mention of becoming an actor underscores how pursuing a career in entertainment, especially when coming from a community with perhaps more conventional career expectations, can be seen as a bold and unconventional choice. Similarly, his relationship with someone outside the Egyptian community highlights the importance of cultural boundaries and how dating outside one’s ethnic or cultural group can challenge deeply ingrained traditions. These choices reflect Massoud’s desire for individuality and self-expression, even if it meant surprising or disappointing his parents.

The mention of moving away from home before marriage adds another layer to Massoud’s willingness to defy traditional norms. In many cultures, including some within the Egyptian community, there is often an expectation that individuals stay at home until they marry. Massoud’s decision to live independently reflects his desire for autonomy and independence, signaling a more modern approach to personal development and life choices.

Ultimately, Massoud's quote highlights the tension between personal freedom and family expectations. While his decisions shocked his parents, they also reflect his journey toward living authentically and making choices that align with his values and ambitions. It sheds light on the complexities of balancing cultural traditions with the desire to forge one’s own path in life.