Ahmed Helmy, a prominent Egyptian actor, has recently been in the spotlight due to a controversy surrounding one of his performances. During a play,Helmy interacted with an audience member named Mustafa Gad,who was seated in the front row. Helmy jokingly asked Gad, “You are from? An Egyptian and a base in the first row … Sure, is determined.” this comment sparked a meaningful backlash, with many considering it an insult to Egyptians. However, others came to HelmyS defense, arguing that his words were taken out of context and that he did not intend to offend anyone.
Technical critic Tariq Al-Shennawi commented on the situation, stating that Helmy’s words were a joke and did not carry any insult towards Egyptians. He further noted that such reactions are frequently enough exaggerated and that Helmy’s intention was not to cause offense [1[1[1[1].
Director Karim El-Adl also defended Helmy, suggesting that there was a systematic campaign against the actor. El-Adl implied that the controversy was orchestrated and funded, aiming to create a negative perception of Helmy [1[1[1[1].
In addition to this controversy, Ahmed Helmy has been making headlines for his successful play ”Bani Adam,” which is being performed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The play, which premiered on January 23rd, follows the story of Helmy’s character attempting to revive an abandoned theater haunted by ghosts. the comedy play is part of the cultural activities during the Riyadh season and is being showcased at the Bakr Al-Shadi Theater in Boulevard City [2[2[2[2].
while Helmy faces criticism for his comment, his professional achievements, such as the success of “Bani Adam,” continue to be recognized.
Interview with Ahmed Helmy on Recent Controversy and Play “Bani Adam”
Editor: Ahmed, you recently faced backlash for a comment made during a play performance. Can you explain what happened and how it was perceived?
ahmed Helmy: During a play performance, I interacted with an audience member named Mustafa Gad, who was seated in the front row. I said, “You are from? An Egyptian and a base in the first row … Sure, is determined.” I didn’t realize the power of my words,and they were intended as a joke. However, some took it as an insult to.That was never my intention.
Editor: Technical critic Tariq Al-Shennawi defended you,saying your words were a joke.What are your thoughts on that?
Ahmed helmy: Tariq Al-Shennawi’s defense meant a lot to me. He rightly pointed out that my words were taken out of context and that I didn’t intend to insult anyone. These kinds of reactions can sometimes be exaggerated,and I appreciate his support in clarifying that my words were meant as a light-hearted joke.
Editor: Director Karim El-Adl suggested there was a systematic campaign against you. Do you believe that?
Ahmed Helmy: Karim El-Adl knows me well and has been very supportive. His implication that there was an orchestrated campaign against me raised important questions. While I don’t have concrete evidence, its possible that certain elements might want to create such controversies to distort public perception. It’s unfortunate, but it happens.
Editor: Let’s shift focus to your recent achievements. Your play “bani Adam” is being performed in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. What can you tell us about the play and its success?
Ahmed Helmy: “Bani Adam” is a comedy that premiered on January 23rd and is being performed as part of the cultural activities during the Riyadh season. The play follows the story of my character attempting to revive an abandoned theater haunted by ghosts. It has been an unbelievable experience to see the warm reception we’ve received,and I’m delighted that it’s contributing to the cultural landscape in Riyadh.
Editor: Despite the controversy, your professional achievements continue to be recognized. How do you balance the criticism and your successes?
Ahmed Helmy: Balancing criticism and successes is part of the journey for any public figure. I take obligation for any mistaken words that may have caused offense and try to learn from them. On the other hand, I’m immensely proud of my professional accomplishments, like “Bani Adam,” and they fuel my passion to continue delivering quality performances and entertaining audiences.
Thank you, Ahmed, for your candid responses and sharing your insights about recent events and your successful play, “Bani Adam.”
