Syrian Actor Salloum Haddad Sparks Controversy with Remarks on Egyptian Artists
Cairo – Syrian actor Salloum Haddad has ignited debate after publicly criticizing the classical acting abilities of Egyptian artists in a recently surfaced video. The comments, described as dismissive, have drawn swift reaction online and within the Arab entertainment industry.
Haddad, a veteran of both Syrian television and film, has built a decades-long career appearing in numerous prominent series. Early roles included appearances in “Men Under the Cowl,” “Small Projects,” “Letters of Love and War,” and “Whale” during the 2000s. More recently, he has been featured in “Birth from the Loin,” “The Lips of Ain,” “The Brothers,” and “Khatun,” among others.
Beyond acting, Haddad ventured into directing in 2013 with the Emirati series “Restriction.” He has also received accolades for his work, including an honor from the University of Aleppo’s student Film Club in 2007 and awards for “Best First Role Actor” for both “Al-Wawa” from the Cairo Arab Media Festival and “Letters of Love and War” from the Gulf Radio and Television Production Festival.
The controversy stems from a video circulating online where Haddad states Egyptian artists “are not good at classical” acting, suggesting a important deficiency in their training and performance. The full context of the remarks and the specific circumstances surrounding them remain unclear, but the clip has quickly gained traction, prompting responses from Egyptian actors and industry professionals.
The incident raises questions about artistic criticism and cultural sensitivities within the Arab world, and its potential impact on future collaborations between Syrian and Egyptian artists.Further developments are expected as reactions continue to unfold.