Mai Kasab: Family & Friends Criticize Her Role in “Noun El Neswa” | Al Masry Al Youm

The Egyptian actress and singer, Mai Kassab, is finding herself on the receiving end of both critical acclaim and playful backlash for her portrayal of the character Shereefa in the popular television series “Noun El Noswa” (Ladies’ Secrets). Kassab recently shared on social media that she’s been “insulted” by family, friends, and even her own children due to the character’s decidedly unlikeable traits.

In a video posted to her Instagram story, Kassab humorously acknowledged the strong reactions to Shereefa, stating, “I’m constantly being insulted by my children, friends, family, and relatives. Honestly, I need to change my circle of acquaintances.” She playfully added, “I want people without principles who will excuse Shereefa for her weakness and neediness, since frankly, I love her.”

Kassab’s character in “Noun El Noswa” is described as intensely selfish, consistently prioritizing her own interests above all others. This portrayal has sparked considerable debate and criticism from viewers, who have voiced their disapproval on social media platforms. Still, rather than offering a conventional defense of her role, Kassab has opted for a strategy of ironic engagement, expressing her affection for the character’s complexities and flaws.

This approach suggests a keen understanding of the power of a compelling antagonist. Kassab seems to recognize that the very intensity of the negative reaction to Shereefa is a testament to her success in bringing the character to life. The more viewers dislike Shereefa, the more effectively Kassab is fulfilling her role.

Born in Tanta, Egypt, in 1981, Mai Kassab began her career as a singer, achieving early success with a duet with Syrian artist Majd Al-Qassem, “Ghamd Eineik” (Close Your Eyes). She transitioned into acting, landing a leading role in the series “Tamer wa Shawqiya,” which opened doors to further dramatic and cinematic opportunities. She is also a mother of three children: Farida, Dalida, and Nouh, with her husband, the popular singer Oka.

Kassab’s career has seen her collaborate with some of Egypt’s most prominent actors and directors, including Adel Imam, Ahmed Ezz, and Mohamed Ramadan, as well as directors like Amr Arafa and Wael Ihsan. Her versatility as both a singer and actress has established her as a significant figure in the Egyptian entertainment industry.

“Noun El Noswa” is currently enjoying high viewership ratings, and also stars Heba Magdy and Simone. The series is written by Mohamed El-Hanaawy. The show’s success is likely fueled, in part, by the controversial nature of Kassab’s character and the resulting online discussion. The show taps into relatable themes of family dynamics and personal ambition, albeit through a lens of heightened drama and often-unpleasant truths.

Kassab’s response to the criticism – embracing the negativity and playfully defending her character – is a savvy move. It demonstrates an awareness of the current media landscape, where controversy often drives engagement. By leaning into the backlash, she’s not only generating buzz for the show but also showcasing her own artistic confidence and willingness to take on challenging roles.

The situation highlights a broader trend in contemporary television: the increasing popularity of morally ambiguous characters. Audiences are often drawn to characters who are flawed and complex, even if they are unlikeable. Shereefa, as portrayed by Kassab, embodies this trend, offering a compelling, if unsettling, portrait of human selfishness and ambition. The character’s flaws are not presented as mere villainy, but as integral parts of a complex personality, making her a fascinating and ultimately memorable figure.

While the “insults” from loved ones may be a source of amusement for Kassab, they also underscore the power of performance to blur the lines between reality and fiction. Her ability to elicit such strong emotional responses from those who know her best is a testament to her skill as an actress and the effectiveness of her portrayal of Shereefa. It remains to be seen how the character’s arc will unfold as “Noun El Noswa” continues, but one thing is certain: Mai Kassab has successfully captured the attention of audiences and sparked a conversation about the complexities of human nature.