**Lotfy Labib... Touching Wishes and a Family Decision That Changed His Fate in His Final Days**
Botros Daniel reveals the behind-the-scenes of Lotfy Labib’s illness, his family’s refusal of surgery, and the details of his final honor before passing away.
In His Final Days… Lotfy Labib’s Family Refused Surgery, and Botros Daniel Reveals Touching Moments**
In a moment of emotional farewell, Father Botros Daniel, head of the Catholic Centre for Cinema, shared deeply moving insights into the final days of the late actor **Lotfy Labib**, affirming that his legacy was not only artistic but profoundly human—marked by generosity, humility, and heartfelt support for others.
**A Tribute of Loyalty and Well-Deserved Recognition**
During a phone interview, Father Botros spoke about honoring Lotfy Labib at the Catholic Centre for his role in the film *“Wish Fi Wish”*, emphasizing that the jury unanimously selected him without hesitation. “Lotfy Labib wasn’t just an actor,” he said. “He was a shining light behind the scenes of the artistic world, an inspiring presence who uplifted everyone around him.”
**His Final Days… Silent Illness and Hidden Emotions**
Father Botros revealed that the actor had been diagnosed with a cancerous tumor in his larynx. Doctors had recommended a surgical procedure, but his family declined, fearing the operation might worsen his already fragile mental state. Lotfy, fully aware of the surgery’s difficulty, knew it could permanently affect his voice and, consequently, his artistic future.
Despite it all, he never gave up hope. He dreamed of returning to his office in Rehab City to complete the screenplay of a film and series he had started writing. “Once I get better,” he told Father Botros, “I’ll get up and finish my work… I still have so much to give to art.”
**The Man Before the Artist**
Father Botros described him as a cheerful, life-loving artist who never succumbed to arrogance or pride. He was always keen to support young talents—not only by participating in their projects, but with sincere words of encouragement that reflected both fatherly warmth and deep compassion.
He had a strong presence in theater as well and never hesitated to join younger actors on stage, believing that art is passed down only through encouragement and perseverance.
**A Gentle Farewell and Final Tribute**
Lotfy Labib passed away at the age of 78 after a prolonged battle with illness. He was admitted to the ICU following a sudden health crisis and passed away peacefully—just as he had lived—leaving behind a legacy of artistic excellence and human kindness that remains a model for others.
Father Botros confirmed that the Catholic Centre will hold a special memorial in his honor, and that Lotfy’s name will be added to the registry of pioneering artists—ensuring his contributions remain etched in the proud memory of Egyptian cinema.
Condolences are set for Thursday and Saturday at the Youssef El-Naggar Hall at St. Mark’s Church in Heliopolis, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., offering friends and admirers a chance to bid him a farewell worthy of his status.
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