Egypt’s sweetheart Shadia closed her eyes to our world on Tuesday evening at the age of 86, state–run newspaper Al-Ahram reported. The prominent actress was admitted to hospital earlier this month after suffering from a brain stroke. Her condition was initially reported unstable, then President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi ordered her transfer to Al-Galaa Military Hospital, where she was admitted to the intensive care unit and stayed for a few days.
Shortly after, Shadia’s nephew stated in a Facebook post that her condition was stable and that she regained her ability to talk and move her hands.
The iconic star was known for her light comedy roles in the golden era of Egyptian cinema during the 1950s and 60s. Born Fatma Ahmed Kamal, she was given the name Shadia by director Helmy Rafla. She starred in over 100 films along her career journey, which started in 1947 with “Al-Akl Fe Agaza” (The Mind is on Vacation) and lasted until she retired in 1984 after her prominent “Raya W Skina” theatrical play, co-starring Soheir El-Babli.
In her 37-year career, the Egyptian icon was also known for her cheerful voice which made her one of the most outstanding superstars of her era. She sang in her films alongside Egypt’s most fascinating voices, including Farid al-Atrache and Abdel Halim Hafez.
Cherished in almost all Egyptian households, the superstar is one of the closest actresses to viewers’ hearts, notably seen as spontaneous, funny, and beloved for her “girl next door” demeanour. However, that did not prevent her from performing profound dramatic roles, like her role in “Al-Mar’a Al-Maghola” (The Unknown Woman) and “Ma’bodet Al-Gamaher” (Fans’ Idol).
After standing side by side with comedic icon Soheir El-Babli in “Raya W Skina”—a play that was a huge hit in the 80s and remains a classic today—Shadia decided to step away from the limelight in order to wear hijab and dedicate her life to charity.
No information has yet been announced about the place and time for the star’s funeral.