Let’s Not Be Too Hasty, but the New ‘Aladdin’ Might Be Vegan

Egyptian, Canadian … vegan? Disney fans around the world are trying to learn as much as they can about Mena Massoud, the actor who stars as Aladdin in the live-action reimagining of the 1992 animated film.

While many flocked to IMDB to see what they could discover, my eyes needed to look no further than Massoud’s Instagram account to see what he’s all about. Grab your magnifying glasses, #VegansOfIG, because he’s dropping hints left and right that he doesn’t eat anything derived from animals.

Let me build my case. Take as “Exhibit A” this humble salad:

These hashtags don’t lie. But you’re right—anyone can make a salad. But does the average omnivore seek out crazy vegan desserts like these?

Or have a vegan barbecue?

Or have their own vegan food channel?

Massoud has also visited some vegan restaurants that we PETA staffers are totally obsessed with. He’s been to Doomie’s (which has locations in Toronto and Los Angeles) and Azla vegan, which specializes in plant-based Ethiopian food.

But it’s not just that his pictures of vegan food will make you hungry—Massoud’s #VeganGains posts on Instagram may make you #Thirsty.

And because I promised myself that I wouldn’t overload this post with Aladdin puns and references (which required a lot of self-control), I’ll make just one: Massoud sure does prove that he can keep “one jump ahead.” (Done now.)

And he’s even nice with a shirt on: Massoud has shown his kindness to animals by attending animal-free circus shows …

… and hiking with an adorable dog:

Double woof.

*****

So is Mena Massoud vegan or just vegan-friendly? Unless I run into him at Doomie’s and get to ask, I can’t be fully sure. But one thing is certain: His influence will undoubtedly have a positive effect on countless animals. And btw, that influence is growing—his Instagram account has gained tens of thousands of followers since the announcement of his casting, according to reports.

As more and more celebs are trying vegan, people are realizing that it’s easier—and more mainstream—than ever before to live a plant-based and/or cruelty-free lifestyle.

Inspired by Mena Massoud and looking to make some #VeganGains of your own? Follow these vegan bodybuilders for inspiration, then take a look at our healthy vegan meal plan and this list of vegan supplements to optimize your results.

If you’re hoping to get cast in a huge Hollywood picture, unfortunately, you’re on your own. But if you, like Massoud, are looking to fill your Instagram—and your life—with delicious #Vegan things, you’ve come to the perfect place. Bookmark our site now to keep up with the latest vegan news, and order a free vegan starter kit today to begin your journey.