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Nour El-Sherif
View on WikipediaNour El-Sherif (Arabic: نور الشريف; 28 April 1946 – 11 August 2015), born Mohamad Geber Mohamad Abd Allah (Arabic: محمد جابر محمد عبد الله) was a prominent Egyptian actor. He has 6 films in the Top 100 Egyptian films list.
Key Information
El-Sherif was born in the working-class neighbourhood of Sayeda Zainab in Cairo. El-Sherif was married to Poussi (1972–2006) and together they had two daughters, Sarah and Mai. He got divorced from Poussi in 2006 and they reunited in early 2015 during the difficulty of his illness. He also played soccer before choosing acting as a career. Nour El-Sherif is sometimes credited as Nour El Cherif, Nour El-Cherif or Nour Al-Sharif. He died on August 11, 2015, Cairo, Egypt.[1][2][3]
Death
[edit]Nour El-Sherif died from lung cancer in Cairo at the age of 69 in 2015 after a severe struggle with the disease.
Tribute
[edit]On 28 April 2021, Google celebrated his 75th birthday with a Google Doodle.[4]
Filmography
[edit]Selected works
[edit]| Year | Title | Arabic Title | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1967 | Kasr El Shawk | ||
| 1968 | Bint Min el Banat | ||
| 1970 | Ashiaa la toshtra | ||
| 1971 | Pleasure and Suffering[5] | al-Mutåt wal-Âzab | |
| 1971 | My Wife and the Dog | ||
| 1973 | Medinet al-Samt | ||
| 1974 | In Summer We Must Love | Fel Saif Lazem Nihib | |
| 1975 | Leqa ma al-madi | ||
| 1975 | Hello, I'm the Cat | Alo, ana al-ghetta | |
| 1975 | Karnak Cafe | Al-Karnak | |
| 1975 | Bloody Sunday | Youm El-Ahad El-Damy | |
| 1976 | La Waqt Lil Demoue | ||
| 1977 | Ota Ala Nar | ||
| 1977 | Sonya and the Madman | ||
| 1978 | Journey Inside a Woman | Rehla Dakhel Emraa | |
| 1978 | Darbet Shams | ||
| 1978 | The Time has gone my Son | Wa da al-omr ya waladi | |
| 1978 | The Last Confession | Al-Eeteraf al-Akhir | |
| 1978 | The Other Woman | Maraa Al-Okhra | |
| 1980 | Desire | Al-Raghba | |
| 1981 | Al-Akmar | ||
| 1981 | People on the Top | Ahl El Qema | |
| 1981 | Al-Shaytan Yaez | ||
| 1982 | The Bus Driver | Sawak Al-Utubis | |
| 1982 | An Egyptian Story | Hadduta Misrija | |
| 1982 | Bariq Ayneyk | ||
| 1982 | The Peacock | Al-Tawous | |
| 1984 | Beit al-qadi | ||
| 1984 | Streets of Fire | Imam | |
| 1985 | The Vagabonds | Al-Sa Alik | |
| 1986 | The Train | El-Ketaar | |
| 1986 | The Age of Wolves | Ahmed | |
| 1987 | Kaher el-zaman | ||
| 1989 | Seraa al ahfad | ||
| 1989 | Hellfire | Inar gahined | |
| 1990 | The Search of Sayed Marzouk | Al-Bahths an Al-Sayyid Marzuq | |
| 1991 | Nagi El-Ali | ||
| 1992 | The Cry | Al-Sarkha | |
| 1992 | Ayoun Al Sakr | ||
| 1994 | A Hot Night | Leila Sakhina | |
| 1995 | I Won't Live in My Father's Robes | Lan A3ish Fi Gelbab Abi | TV series |
| 1997 | Destiny | Massir | |
| 1997 | The Mushroom | Mostafa | |
| 1998 | Disappearance of Gaafar El-Masry | Ikhtefaa Gaafar El-Masry | |
| 1999 | The Other Man | El Ragol El Akhar | TV series |
| 2001 | Haj Metwali's Family | TV series | |
| 2002 | El Attar we el saba3 banat | TV series | |
| 2004 | Eish Ayamak | TV series | |
| 2005 | Dam El Ghazal | ||
| 2006 | The Yacoubian Building | Omaret Yakobean | |
| 2008 | Transit Prisoner | Masgoon Transit | |
| 2008 | The Baby Doll Night | Laylat El-Baby Doll | |
| 2015 | Cairo Time | Betawqeet El-Qahira |
See also
[edit]References
[edit]- Habib, Samar. Female Homosexuality in the Middle East: Histories and Representations. Routledge, July 18, 2007. ISBN 0415956730, 9780415956734.
Notes
[edit]- ^ Famed Egyptian actor Nour el-Sherif dies Archived 2017-02-20 at the Wayback Machine, The Arab American News, December 8, 2015.
- ^ "نور الشريف - ﺗﻤﺜﻴﻞ - فيلموجرافيا، صور، فيديو". elCinema.com (in Arabic). Retrieved 2018-01-24.
- ^ "Nour El-Sherif". IMDb. Retrieved 2018-01-24.
- ^ "Nour El-Sherif's 75th Birthday". Google. 28 April 2021.
- ^ Habib, p. 129.
External links
[edit]Nour El-Sherif
View on GrokipediaEarly life and education
Family and childhood
Nour El-Sherif was born Mohamed Gaber Mohamed Abd Allah on April 28, 1946, in the working-class neighborhood of Sayyida Zaynab in Cairo, Egypt.[9][10][11] His father passed away when he was just one year old, at the age of 26, leaving his mother to raise him single-handedly under modest economic conditions.[1] As a child, El-Sherif developed a keen passion for soccer, joining the junior team of Al-Zamalek Club and initially aspiring to a career in the sport.[11][1] This interest contrasted with his growing fascination for acting, sparked through participation in school performances and exposure to local theater groups.[12][1] He spent his formative years in a culturally vibrant yet economically challenging environment typical of Cairo's popular quarters, surrounded by the everyday struggles and community life of working-class Egyptians.[11][10]Academic background and early interests
Nour El-Sherif, born Mohamed Gaber Mohamed Abd Allah, initially enrolled at the Faculty of Commerce after completing high school but soon transferred to the Higher Institute for Theatrical Arts in Cairo, reflecting his growing passion for performance. His interest in acting was ignited during his preparatory school years through participation in school theater productions, where he joined an acting troupe and gained his first stage experience, building confidence in amateur roles that convinced him to pursue the field professionally.[1] In 1967, El-Sherif graduated from the Higher Institute for Theatrical Arts with first-class honors, ranking top in his class and earning classification in the first tier, which marked a pivotal step in formalizing his artistic training. This academic achievement underscored his dedication to dramatic arts, shaped by early exposures to Egyptian cinema that inspired him to prioritize acting as a career path.[1][13][14] Despite his childhood enthusiasm for soccer, where he played on Zamalek Club's junior team and received offers to join professionally, El-Sherif ultimately chose acting over a sports career, viewing it as a deeper calling aligned with his talents and interests. This decision, made amid his transition to higher education, highlighted his determination to channel early creative sparks into a structured artistic pursuit.[1][13][15]Professional career
Theater debut and early stage work
Upon graduating from the Higher Institute for Theatrical Studies in 1967 with top honors, Nour El-Sherif immediately joined the National Theatre, where he was classified as a first-tier actor by the institution.[1][16] This marked his entry into professional stage acting, building on his dramatic arts training during university years.[1] El-Sherif's professional debut came in 1968 with a minor role in the play El-Shaware El-Khalfiya (The Back Streets), facilitated by actor Sa'ad Ardash, which provided initial exposure within the National Theatre ensemble and introduced him to the Egyptian theater audience.[17][1] Throughout the late 1960s and early 1970s, El-Sherif collaborated with directors such as Kamal El-Shennawi on stage productions emphasizing social realism, appearing in over 10 plays that explored themes of class struggle and societal norms.[18] Notable among these was his starring role and directorial involvement in Alfred Farag's Al-Amira wal-So'louk (The Princess and the Vagabond), a work that showcased his ability to blend performance with creative oversight at the National Theatre.[16] Other collaborations included adaptations like Romeo wa Juliet under Kamal E'id, as well as plays such as Kont Feen Ya Aly and his directorial debut Al-Kahin (The Priest) at Al-Hanager Theater, further solidifying his presence in the scene.[1] As a newcomer, El-Sherif navigated significant challenges, including familial opposition to his pursuit of acting and the intense competition among young talents in Egypt's theater world, where low pay often forced reliance on multiple roles to sustain a career.[16] These experiences refined his versatile style, prioritizing deep character exploration and emotional authenticity in roles that demanded nuance amid limited resources.[13]Film breakthrough and key roles
Nour El-Sherif made his cinematic debut in 1967 with a supporting role in Kasr El-Shawk (Palace of Desire), directed by Hassan Imam and adapted from Naguib Mahfouz's novel, marking his entry into Egyptian cinema.[19] He followed this with minor roles in various films during the late 1960s, honing his craft amid the vibrant post-revolutionary film industry while transitioning from theater.[19] His breakthrough arrived in 1971 with Zawgaty wa al-Kalb (My Wife and the Dog), directed by Said Marzouk, where he portrayed a man grappling with jealousy and moral dilemmas, earning critical praise for his intense dramatic delivery and emotional depth.[20] This performance established him as a leading talent capable of tackling complex psychological and social themes, propelling him to stardom and opening doors to more prominent parts.[20] Throughout his career, El-Sherif delivered iconic performances in six films ranked among Egypt's top 100, including his role as a student enduring torture and political oppression in Al-Karnak (Karnak Cafe, 1975), directed by Ali Badrakhan and based on Mahfouz's novel critiquing authoritarianism.[19] He also took the lead in Hadouta Masreya (An Egyptian Story, 1982), directed by Youssef Chahine, where he explored themes of personal identity, mortality, and cultural heritage through an introspective autobiographical narrative.[19] El-Sherif's collaborations with Youssef Chahine further highlighted his versatility, notably in Al-Maseer (Destiny, 1997), where he embodied the philosopher Averroes in a historical tale of intellectual persecution and enlightenment.[19] His range extended to contemporary critiques, culminating in a pivotal role in Omaret Yacoubian (The Yacoubian Building, 2006), directed by Marwan Hamed, which addressed corruption, class disparity, and social decay in modern Egypt based on Alaa Al Aswany's novel.[6]Television prominence and later projects
Nour El-Sherif began his television career in the late 1960s, appearing in the long-running series Al Qahira wa Al Nas (Cairo and the People), where he portrayed the character Adel across multiple seasons from 1967 to 1972, marking his entry into the medium alongside established stars like Safia El-Emary and Laila Taher.[21] While his early television roles were sporadic, it was in the 1990s that he achieved prominence through Ramadan specials, a staple of Egyptian broadcasting that drew massive audiences during the holy month. His breakthrough came with the 1996 series Lan A'eesh fi Gilbab Aby (I Won't Live in My Father's Robe), a social drama exploring generational conflicts and personal identity, which solidified his status as a leading television actor.[3] Throughout the 2000s, El-Sherif starred in several high-profile Ramadan series that blended drama with sharp social commentary, reflecting Egypt's cultural and societal shifts. In A'elat El-Hagg Metwali (2001), he played the patriarch of a large family navigating economic hardships and moral dilemmas, earning praise for his nuanced portrayal of traditional values under modern pressures.[3] Similarly, in El Daly (2007–2008), he depicted a corrupt cabinet minister entangled in political intrigue, a role that highlighted his versatility in tackling themes of power and ethics, as noted in contemporary reviews of the series' controversial edge.[22] These projects not only boosted his popularity but also expanded television's role in critiquing societal issues, with El-Sherif's performances often cited for their depth and relatability.[7] In the 2010s, El-Sherif increasingly took on production and creative control in his projects, self-producing television works that allowed him to shape narratives around family dynamics and personal resilience. His involvement extended to directing elements in later productions, drawing from his earlier stage experience. By the early 2010s, amid growing health challenges, El-Sherif focused on meaningful roles; his final major project, Khalaf Allah (2013), portrayed a father's evolving relationship with his son in a conservative society, emphasizing themes of love, discipline, and generational reconciliation, and was lauded for its emotional authenticity.[7] These later endeavors showcased his adaptation to evolving media formats, reaching broad audiences through satellite channels and reinforcing his enduring influence in Egyptian television.[2]Personal life
Marriages and relationships
Nour El-Sherif married Egyptian actress Poussy (real name Bushra) in 1972, forming a prominent union within the entertainment industry that blended their professional and personal lives. The couple, both rising stars at the time, shared a deep bond that influenced their collaborative work, including joint appearances in theater productions and early films where their real-life chemistry enhanced on-screen portrayals of romantic and familial dynamics.[23] Their marriage lasted over three decades, during which they became one of Egypt's most recognized celebrity couples, often celebrated for their enduring partnership amid the demands of show business.[24] The union ended in divorce in early 2006 after 34 years, with El-Sherif citing irreconcilable personal differences as the primary reason, though neither party disclosed further details publicly.[24] Post-divorce, speculation arose about brief romantic involvements for El-Sherif, including unconfirmed reports of an intimate relationship with a young Tunisian woman that reportedly contributed to the split.[25] Despite the separation, El-Sherif and Poussy maintained a cordial relationship, frequently appearing together at family events and industry gatherings, which fueled public rumors of potential reconciliations throughout the early 2010s.[26] Poussy publicly expressed ongoing affection and respect for El-Sherif, emphasizing their shared history and mutual support even after the divorce.[26] In a poignant turn, the couple reconciled and remarried on January 14, 2015, shortly after El-Sherif's health began to decline significantly.[27] Poussy later explained that her decision stemmed from a sense of duty and enduring love, stating she could not abandon him during his vulnerability. This reunion, lasting until El-Sherif's death later that year, symbolized resilience in their personal bond and positively shaped his public image as a figure of loyalty and redemption in the face of adversity. The couple had two daughters from their first marriage.Family and private interests
Nour El-Sherif was a devoted father to two daughters, Sara and May, from his marriage to actress Poussy. He raised them in Cairo, instilling values rooted in his own working-class upbringing in the Al-Khalifa neighborhood.[1] Despite his prominence in Egyptian cinema, El-Sherif prioritized a grounded family life, with his daughters growing up immersed in the performing arts through their parents and aunt Noura, a retired performer. Sara pursued a behind-the-scenes role in the industry as an assistant director on select projects, while May, born on April 10, 1981, became an actress, appearing in films and television series, including collaborations with her father; she graduated from the American University in Cairo and began in theater during childhood.[28][29] El-Sherif's influence as a father was profound, as May later reflected in a 2023 tribute, crediting him with shaping her and Sara's lives through his wisdom and support. In his private pursuits, El-Sherif maintained a humble lifestyle reflective of his origins, with a lifelong passion for soccer stemming from his youth, when he played for Zamalek Club's junior team before dedicating himself to acting.[1][8] Known for his modest personality, he focused on family bonds away from the public eye, emphasizing personal integrity over celebrity.[30]Illness and death
Health struggles
Nour El-Sherif first encountered significant health challenges in the early 2010s, beginning with circulatory deficiencies that caused severe pain in the arteries of his legs, requiring surgical intervention and ongoing treatment.[31] These issues escalated in late 2013 following the completion of his television series Khalf Allah, when he developed fluid accumulation in his lungs, initially attributed to inflammation but later linked to a more serious underlying condition.[32] By mid-2014, medical examinations confirmed an advanced diagnosis of lung cancer, which had been inadvertently discovered during procedures to address the lung fluid.[33] El-Sherif underwent chemotherapy sessions as part of his treatment regimen, alongside multiple hospitalizations in Cairo and extended stays in London for specialized care and check-ups, where he spent several months in 2014 and early 2015 receiving medical attention. In 2015, El-Sherif made several public statements about his condition through interviews, expressing frustration with exaggerated rumors and appealing for privacy while contemplating the fragility of life and his resilience against illness.[34] The progression of his illness profoundly affected his professional life, leading him to withdraw from several planned projects and curtail his involvement in others to prioritize recovery and personal matters, including a reconciliation with his former wife Poussy amid his treatment.[35] Despite these limitations, he occasionally participated in limited filming commitments, demonstrating his determination to continue working where possible.[2]Passing and immediate aftermath
Nour El-Sherif passed away on August 11, 2015, at the age of 69 in a Cairo hospital, succumbing to complications from lung cancer after a prolonged battle with the disease.[2][36] The following day, August 12, his funeral prayer was conducted at Al-Shorta Mosque in the 6th of October City suburb of Cairo, drawing thousands of mourners including family, fans, and prominent members of the Egyptian entertainment industry such as actors Adel Imam, Ezzat El Alaily, Farouk El Fishawy, and Mohamed Ramadan, as well as officials from the Ministry of Culture.[37][38] He was then buried in the family plot located on Al-Wahat Road south of Cairo.[39] In the immediate aftermath, Egyptian media outlets extensively covered his passing, emphasizing his decades-long contributions to cinema, theater, and television, with tributes from peers underscoring his status as a cultural icon.[40] The outpouring of public support was evident at the funeral, where the family acknowledged the widespread condolences and gratitude for the solidarity shown during their time of grief.[37] Collaborators in the industry paused ongoing projects briefly to honor him, incorporating dedications in television broadcasts and productions as a mark of respect.[31]Legacy
Awards and recognitions
Nour El-Sherif received numerous accolades throughout his career, recognizing his contributions to Egyptian and Arab cinema. These honors highlighted his versatility in portraying complex characters and his enduring impact over five decades in film, television, and theater.[19] In 2007, El-Sherif was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award by the Egyptian Writers and Critics Association during the Alexandria International Film Festival, celebrating his profound influence on Egyptian arts and his body of work spanning diverse genres.[19] Seven years later, in 2014, he received the Lifetime Achievement Award at the Dubai International Film Festival, honoring his 50-year career that included over 100 films and television productions, as well as his role in elevating Arab cinema on the global stage.[41][42] El-Sherif also earned Best Actor awards for standout performances in key films. For his role in Leila Sakhina (1995), he won the Best Actor award at the Cairo International Film Festival, praised for his intense portrayal of a man grappling with moral dilemmas in a gritty urban setting.[1] His role in Karnak Cafe (1975) garnered critical acclaim as a landmark political drama depicting oppression under authoritarian rule.[19] These awards, among others like honorary shields from various festivals, underscored his status as one of Egypt's most revered artists.[30]| Year | Award | Festival/Organization | For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1995 | Best Actor | Cairo International Film Festival | Leila Sakhina |
| 2007 | Lifetime Achievement Award | Egyptian Writers and Critics Association (Alexandria International Film Festival) | Career body of work |
| 2014 | Lifetime Achievement Award | Dubai International Film Festival | 50-year career |
