Veteran actor Ahmed Maher has opened up about one of the most challenging chapters of his life, revealing that he secretly pursued acting because of his father's firm rejection of the profession.
✨ Maher explained that his father believed acting could never provide a stable future and considered it an unreliable career, forcing him to hide his artistic ambitions during the early years of his journey.
He recalled that his father once threatened to divorce his mother if he discovered that Ahmed had become an actor. The situation reached a dramatic moment when people recognized Ahmed during a public event, confirming his growing popularity.
Despite the confrontation, Maher stood by his decision, believing in his dream and his ability to support his family if necessary.
Later, an unexpected incident changed his father's perspective. When facing a problem with a public utility company, his father jokingly asked Ahmed to use his fame to help. Upon arriving, officials warmly welcomed the actor and quickly resolved the issue, leaving his father impressed by the respect his son had earned.
Maher also spoke about receiving recognition at the 19th National Egyptian Theatre Festival, describing theatre as his lifelong passion and expressing pride in being known as one of the leading figures of Arab theatre.
Discussing the classic film "Nasser 56," Maher said he accepted the role regardless of the modest salary because of his admiration for the late President Gamal Abdel Nasser and his appreciation for the role that the Academy of Arts played in shaping generations of Egyptian artists.
He also praised the late Ahmed Zaki, describing his portrayal of Nasser as one of the greatest performances in Egyptian cinema.
Maher concluded by clarifying that he is originally from Bulaq Abu El-Ela in Cairo, explaining that his mastery of the Upper Egyptian dialect came through academic training rather than family roots.
