The star Ahmed Helmy officially apologized after the significant controversy sparked on social media due to a comment he directed at composer Mustafa Gad, the husband of singer Carmen Suleiman, during the performance of the play "Bani Adam" as part of the Riyadh season. This incident, which took place on stage, caused a wave of criticism as some interpreted the words as an insult to Egyptians.
Ahmed Helmy Offers His Apology:
During a tribute seminar at the Malmö Arab Film Festival, Ahmed Helmy expressed his regret, saying: "I’m saying to anyone who was upset, I’m sorry, even if I didn’t mean to upset you... my role is to understand you or apologize to you." Helmy added that he was ready to apologize sincerely, without excuses, emphasizing that an apology requires courage and should be free of any personal interests or flaws.
Details of the Controversial Incident:
The incident took place in a usual comedic framework, as part of the interactive nature of the stage performances Ahmed Helmy is known for. However, the clip that was shared on social media was taken out of context, which made the intent seem different. During the show, Ahmed Helmy joked with Mustafa Gad, who was sitting in the front row, asking "Who are you?" to which Gad replied, "I’m Egyptian." Helmy then humorously commented, "An Egyptian sitting in the front row? Surely you’re invited!" This comment was interpreted by some as belittling Egyptians in comparison to other nationalities.
Helmy Clarifies the Situation:
In subsequent statements, Ahmed Helmy clarified that the video was edited out of context, pointing out that Mustafa Gad and Carmen Suleiman are close friends of his and were invited to attend the show. He emphasized that the attendees knew very well that the moment was one of jest and affection. He added: "What happened was a joke between me and my friends, and the people who were at the show knew very well that the whole situation was filled with love and laughter."
Mustafa Gad Defends Helmy:
For his part, Mustafa Gad defended Helmy in a video posted on his account, affirming that the situation did not deserve such media exaggeration. He said that Helmy had no intention to insult anyone, but rather was joking in a friendly and spontaneous manner. Gad added that his relationship with Ahmed Helmy is based on mutual respect and affection, and that he bears no grudge or ill will towards him.
Background of the Incident:
The play that witnessed this incident attracted a lot of attention, as it was performed in front of a large audience during the Riyadh season. In this interactive atmosphere, Ahmed Helmy is famous for delivering comedic performances aimed at engaging with the audience. Although what happened was just a joke among friends, the comments on social media elicited mixed reactions, with some seeing the behavior as inappropriate while others defended the good intentions of the participating artists.
Conclusion of the Situation:
While reactions to the incident grew, the public apology from Ahmed Helmy served as a step to clarify the situation once and for all and calm the situation. Spontaneous moments in such interactive performances can sometimes lead to misunderstandings, but it is clear that the good intentions and friendly banter between the friends were at the heart of the incident. For his part, Mustafa Gad confirmed that the incident wasn’t of great significance and that his relationship with Helmy had not been affected.
