Saied Saleh’s 85th birthday is July 31.
Saleh featured in almost 500 films, 100 plays, and 20 TV dramas over five decades, winning several honours for his services to Egyptian cinema.
During the black-and-white period of Egyptian film, he became a comedy genius and one of the most famous performers. Saleh’s comedic timing and performance make Arab audiences laugh for years.
Saleh, born July 31, 1938, has established the standard for humour with his on-screen appearances.
His classics have charmed audiences for decades. ‘El-Rasasa La Tazalu Fe Gaibi’ (1974), ‘Ala Bab El-Wazir’ (1982), and ‘Salam Ya Sahby’ (1986) were among Saleh’s famous films.
According to Egyptian media, Saleh was a rare type of comic who used wile and cunning to divide the film’s characters.
He began his career alongside famous stars Hassan Yossif, Younes Shalaby, and Adel Emam in the 1970s comedy programme “Madraset Elmoshaghbeen” (School of Rowdies). The three performed routines and comedy tailored to their talents in various shows and films.
Saleh’s latest film, Alzheimer’s, stars Adel Emam, Ahmed Rateb, Ahmed Rizq, and Ranya Yossif. Saleh’s legacy inspires entertainment professionals.
Saleh died Friday aged 76 from diabetes and severe anaemia at a Cairo hospital.