Arab world mourns Egyptian diva Shadia
Born Fatimah Shaker, but known throughout her career by her single stage name, Shadia suffered a stroke this month and later went into a coma.
Egyptian President Abdul Fattah El-Sisi and his wife paid a visit to the hospital upon hearing news of the actress’ deteriorating health, Asharq Al-Awsat reported.
Shadia has more than 100 films to her name and hundreds of singles in a career that stretches back to the late 1940s.
Her film roles ranged from those depicting country girls, career women, to comical portrayals of emotionally disturbed women and hopeless romantics. Her iconic songs have defined the entertainment scene for decades, mostly with hit singles in Egypt’s distinctive vernacular Arabic.
Shadia lived in almost total seclusion after she retired more than two decades ago. Her funeral was held later Wednesday.
Tributes poured in from celebrities and fans alike all over the Arab world on Wednesday.
Egyptian singer and actress Sherine Abdel Wahab tweeted: “Farewell Egypt’s cinema darling ... God have mercy on your soul, you were the nicest sound that ever sung for love ... you left our world but will never leave our hearts.”
Lebanese singer Elissa wrote on Twitter: “We lost an icon. Rest in peace Shadia! I remember singing your songs back in the days when I was still a young contestant in a talent show and I will always perform your songs as a tribute to you.”
“I spent all night listening to this song by the legend #Shadia! She entered the Arabic music history with this song and tens of eternal hits,” she wrote.
CAIRO: The Arab world on Wednesday mourned legendary Egyptian actress and singer Shadia, who captivated millions for decades. She died late on Tuesday at the age of 86.