In a surprising move, Byoumi Fouad publicly confirmed he will not participate in the series “Ali Clay” set to be a major part of the upcoming Ramadan 2026 lineup, alongside Ahmed El-Awady.
During a television interview, Fouad revealed his decision was triggered by pain in his leg, which prevents him from filming the planned thirty-episode run. He explained he is now seeking a shorter project of around fifteen episodes that would be more manageable for him. 🎬
He emphasised there is no falling-out with El-Awady, stating he called him personally, apologised, and that El-Awady “understood in a very kind way”. He added he intends to bring him a deluxe cake upon his return to Egypt as a gesture of goodwill and celebration of the series beginning production.
The series is written by Mahmoud Hamdan and directed by Mohamed Abd El-Salam. It marks a fresh direction for El-Awady, moving him away from the typical neighbourhood and Upper Egypt dramas towards a contemporary social thriller.
El-Awady will play a former professional boxer who runs an orphanage and faces major personal battles after retirement — a role unlike any he has done before.
Fouad’s withdrawal comes at a time when the series is deep in preparation, implying potential changes in casting or supporting roles.