CIFF to dedicate the 39th edition to Shadia

CAIRO – 6 November 2017: The Cairo International Film Festival issued a press statement expressing their sincere wishes and prayers to acclaimed actress and musician Shadia, wishing her a speedy recovery and return to her wide audience who truly love her art; further describing Shadia as a gem.

“The Cairo International Film Festival announces that it will dedicate the 39th edition of the festival to the great artist Shadia,” stated the festival management in its press statement.

Shadia was transferred on Sunday from El Assema hospital to El Galaa military hospital. She had been under treatment at the intensive care unit of El Assema hospital after a minor brain stroke, media reports affirmed Saturday.

Sources close to the great singer speculate that Shadia’s family did not want to announce that she is currently hospitalized, to avoid subjecting Shadia to the public eye at the moment. Currently, Shadia is in deep need of rest and treatment, so they preferred to deny the news of her severe illness.

Shadia was dubbed “Dalouet El Cinema” (The Cinema’s Sweetheart) by her loyal fans from all around the Arab world. Shadia has presented Egyptian art with some 114 songs spanning 37 years. She is acclaimed for her melodious, charming voice.

Shadia’s birth name is Fatema Shaker. The 86-year-old played various roles and nailed movie genres ranging from political to emotional in addition to comic farce. She began her acting career in 1947 at the age of 16, and usually played the role of a lively young girl. She started her singing career in 1953.

One of her most iconic roles was Soheir, the famous actress who falls in love with the less prominent Ibrahim in the romantic classic movie “Maaboudet El Gamahir” (The People's Idol).

In addition to her diverse roles, she will always remain a prolific singer whose music remains favored on many playlists. In fact, 25 years after retiring and completely disappearing from the limelight, her song “Ya Habebty ya Masr” (My Beloved Egypt) became the voice of the January 25 Revolution.

After her last acting role, which came in the film “La Tasalani Man Ana” (Don’t Ask Me Who I Am), she officially announced her retirement in the late 80s. Even at the age of 86, Shadia is still in our hearts, screens and playlists.