The value of Bassem Youssef’s wit, poignancy and sociopolitical commentary is undeniable. However, we are learning more and more that his impact goes beyond the local – he is making ripples the world over. While consistently being a pain in the current administration’s side, and the highlight of an Egyptian Friday night, Bassem Youssef’s reach has grown monumentally. The latest testament to that? His selection as one of TIME Magazine’s 100 Most Influential People of 2013.
Now I know what you’re thinking – TIME? Aren’t they the imbeciles that nominated Morsi as a contender for Person of the Year?! Yes, ‘tis true. But let’s not hold that against them. They got it right this time.
The entry on Bassem Youssef was written by none other than John Stewart – the foremost authority on political satire, and Youssef’s personal hero. Now while some have criticized the sensationalism surrounding Bassem Youssef’s show and subsequent trials, you would be foolish to trivialize either. Youssef is a trailblazer in his own right – capitalizing on, and consistently pushing the boundaries of, post-revolutionary freedom of speech. He speaks to a considerable segment of the population, and has actively worked to bridge the class divide in terms of his appeal.
He symbolizes what all of us have known and loved about Egyptians –our ability to laugh at even the most troubling times. With that said, Youssef makes sure not to undermine the topics at hand and to consistently highlight the underlying social, political and economic issues that must be addressed. I have always said this – the only thing better than funny Bassem Youssef is serious Bassem Youssef. His ability to drive his points home at the end of each segment/episode softens the blow for most Egyptians – surrounding the desperation and frustration many of us often feel with humor, but never once letting us forget how much work we have ahead of us.
As one of the 100 most influential people in the world, Bassem Youssef has brought local and international attention to:
1. The Egyptian people’s ongoing battle for freedom of speech and expression;
2. The current administration’s conscious effort to stifle said freedom;
3. The ridiculous lengths people will go to in twisting religious rhetoric for their own gain; and
4. The awareness amongst the Egyptian people of all the above, and the simple fact that we will not stand for it.
So you know what? Damn straight he’s influential, TIME Magazine. You finally got it right.
