Egyptian actor Abdel Rahim Hassan recently opened up about his journey into the entertainment industry. In an interview on the CBC program "The Stat Ladies Don't Know How to Lie," Hassan shared that his first acting experience was at the age of seven when he played the role of martyr Nabil Al-Manour in a play about the Battle of Port Said. This early start in acting was a coincidence, and Hassan also developed a talent for drawing during his time in exile in Fayoum.
Despite studying at the College of Commerce, majoring in Business Administration, Hassan's true passion lay in university theater. He excelled in this field, winning the title of Best Actor at Helwan University for three consecutive years. Hassan's academic achievements culminated in him receiving the Best Actor award at the undergraduate level for all Egyptian universities. His brother, the late actor Hamdy Hassan, and his friend Darwish Mansy played significant roles in encouraging him to pursue acting.
Hassan credits the late actress Kareema Moukhtar with being a turning point in his career. Moukhtar saw Hassan's performance in a play based on Albert Camus' "The Plague" and was impressed by his talent. She requested his phone number to contact him and recommend him to the renowned director Nour El-Demerdash. Hassan revealed that when he learned he was scheduled to meet with El-Demerdash, he was overcome with excitement and fear, unable to sleep for two days.
Recounting the details of their meeting at El-Demerdash's office, Hassan described feeling anxious and tense, which made him struggle to remember any scenes. However, El-Demerdash believed in Hassan's talent and decided to include him without completing the test, based on Moukhtar's endorsement and his own confidence in Hassan's presence. This encounter led to Hassan's first dramatic role after graduation and before enlisting in the military.
Hassan's first major role was in the series "Kimo," directed by Nour El-Demerdash and starring the late actor Mahmoud Yassin. This marked the beginning of Hassan's professional career in drama, theater, and radio. Hassan expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he has received and acknowledged the support of those who have helped him throughout his journey.
Hassan's early start in acting and his perseverance have contributed to his success in the entertainment industry. He has become a well-known figure in Egyptian cinema and television, taking on various roles in different productions. Hassan's story serves as an inspiration to aspiring actors, highlighting the importance of passion, hard work, and the right opportunities.
Today, Hassan continues to be an active and respected member of the Egyptian entertainment industry. His experiences, both on and off screen, have shaped him into the talented actor he is today. As he looks back on his journey, Hassan remains grateful for the people and circumstances that have helped him achieve his goals.
Key points
- Abdel Rahim Hassan's first acting experience was at the age of seven in a play about the Battle of Port Said.
- Hassan credits Kareema Moukhtar and Nour El-Demerdash with helping launch his career.
- Hassan's breakthrough role was in the series "Kimo," directed by Nour El-Demerdash.
