Egypt recently said goodbye to one of its most beloved comedic actors. Naeem Issa, the instantly recognizable face from countless stage plays and films, passed away earlier this week, and his funeral drew heartfelt tributes from fans and fellow stars alike.
As we remember him, it’s worth revisiting the roles that made him a staple in Egyptian entertainment for generations.
Issa wasn’t always the leading man, but he didn’t need to be. His magic came from making the most out of every minute he was on screen. Whether it was a major part or a quick scene, he always delivered something memorable!
1. Gamil Akkawi in Rayya w Sekina
Let’s start with the legendary play Raya and Sakina. While the leads were busy blending comedy with horror, Issa played Gamil Akkawi—the fabric merchant whose story added a chilling layer of realism to the plot.
His presence anchored the chaos with quiet intensity, showing the audience he was capable of more than just punchlines. It was one of the earliest examples of his range as an actor.
2. The Marriage Registrar in El Wad Sayed El Shaghal
Fast forward to El Wad Sayed El Shaghal, and Issa reminded everyone how powerful a well-delivered joke can be. As the marriage registrar, he had barely any stage time, but he made it count.
With deadpan delivery and perfect timing, he turned a minor moment into one of the play’s funniest. It’s the kind of role only someone with Issa’s instinct for comedy could pull off so effortlessly.
3. El-Meallem Azma in Meen Feena El Harami?
In this 1980s comedy-drama, Issa brought swagger and mischief to his role as El-Meallem Azma, a butcher caught in the chaos of a money hunt.
His sharp delivery and physical humor gave the film a comic heartbeat. He didn’t just play the part—he owned the room whenever he appeared, adding texture to every scene.
4. The Father of the Bride in El Basha Telmiz
By the 2000s, Issa had become a familiar, comforting figure in Egyptian cinema. In El Basha Telmiz, starring Karim Abdel Aziz and Ghada Adel, he played the father of the bride in a chaotic wedding scene that escalates into a full-blown fight between the bride and groom’s families.
Issa’s reactions—equal parts confusion and frustration—added a layer of grounded humor that balanced the chaos.
5. The Contractor in Al-Motasawel
In Al-Motasawel, Issa plays a contractor trying to manage Adel Imam’s character, a well-meaning but bumbling worker who keeps messing things up.
His mounting frustration added a sharp comedic rhythm to the film. As the straight man to Imam’s chaos, Issa nailed every eye roll and sarcastic jab.
The Legacy Naeem Issa Leaves Behind
Naeem Issa was the actor you didn’t realize you missed until he popped up and made you laugh. He didn’t chase the spotlight; he lit it up from wherever he stood. And as Egyptian cinema continues to mourn, we’ll keep seeing his influence in every actor who tries to steal a scene with just one look!
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