Egyptian Actors' Union Halts 'Spirit OFF' Series Ahead of Ramadan 2026
In a significant move that has sent shockwaves through the Egyptian entertainment industry, the Egyptian Actors' Union has announced the permanent cancellation of the series "Spirit OFF" and prohibited its broadcast during Ramadan 2026. The union confirmed that this decision is final.
This action follows repeated warnings issued to the series' producer, Bilal Sabri, urging compliance with union regulations and laws governing artistic work. Despite these warnings, Sabri continued to breach the rules.
The most notable violation involved a contract with blogger "Um Jaser" without the union's official approval, which constitutes a clear breach of union rules prohibiting the employment of individuals not listed in their official records.
The union stated in its announcement that protecting the profession and safeguarding the rights of its members are top priorities. It emphasized that any artistic work that fails to adhere to legal standards will face strict repercussions, reiterating that the decision is final and that equal opportunity and respect for artistic regulations will be rigorously enforced.
"Spirit OFF" is an Egyptian drama written by Ahmed Ashour and directed by Karim Rafat, originally set to air during the Ramadan season 2026.
The plot follows a once-famous singer from the 1990s who struggles to regain his status by collaborating with emerging rap stars, navigating a landscape filled with rivalries and conflicts.
The cast includes Mounzer Riahna, Mirna Walid, Salah Abdallah, Nancy Salah, Tarek El-Nahri, Sherif Baher, Mohamed Suleiman, Tahr Abu Leila, Reda Hamid, Rania El-Toumi, Ashraf Talaba, Nermin Gamal, and rap artists such as Samir Afarto, Felix, Risha Costa, Samara, and Sadat.
The union has explicitly warned against future violations, asserting that adherence to the law is the only path for continued participation in the Egyptian arts scene.
