Karess Bashar is a leading Syrian actress, considered one of the top-tier stars in Arab drama. Born in Damascus on February 16, 1976, to a father of Kurdish descent and a Syrian mother, she began her artistic journey in the early 1990s. Bashar joined the Zanobia Folk Arts troupe, where she performed for three years. Although she studied Media at the University of Damascus, her passion for acting led her to the stage, where she was discovered by the renowned actor Duraid Lahham, who cast her in his plays "The Rain Maker" and "The Happy Sparrow." Her breakthrough in television came in 1996 with notable roles in series like "A'ilat Sit Nojoum" (A 6-Star Family) and "Al-Ababid," showcasing her unique ability to perform both comedic and tragic roles. Throughout her extensive career, Bashar has delivered dozens of iconic performances that have resonated with Arab audiences. Some of her most prominent roles include 'Saadia' in "Layali El Salhia" (2004), and her work in "Ahl Al-Raya" (2008), "Zahrat Al-Narjis" (2008), "Qalam Homra" (2014), and "Ghadan Naltaki" (2015). She has also starred in recent popular successes like "Stiletto" (2022) and "Al Nar Bel Nar" (2023). In recognition of her humanitarian efforts, she was appointed a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador. Bashar was previously married to businessman Shadi Jawad, with whom she has one son, Majd; they divorced in 2014.

In 2007, Karess Bashar won the Best Supporting Actress award at the Syrian Adonia Festival for her distinguished role in the series "Ala Hafet Al Hawia" (On the Edge of the Abyss). This recognition was an early testament to her profound talent and ability to embody complex characters. Her career was further celebrated in 2008 when she received the Best Actress award from the Syrian Radio and Television Festival. This prize honored her outstanding performances in four successful series that year: "Ahl Al-Raya," "Zahrat Al-Narjis," "Laysa Saraban," and "Hara A'al Hawa." In recognition of her rich artistic career, she was honored in Tunisia in 2018 with a medal from the Arab Radio and Television Festival for her entire body of work. This honor, organized by the Arab States Broadcasting Union, confirms her status as one of the most prominent actresses in the Arab world. In 2023, she won the prestigious Murex d'Or award for Best Arab Actress, adding another significant achievement to her record of awards and accolades that reflect her continued success and brilliance.

She studied Media at the University of Damascus but pursued her acting career before completing her degree.