Veteran actress/singer Shadia dies at 86

CAIRO – 28 November 2017 : Veteran Egyptian singer and actress Shadia passed away on Tuesday at age 86 after being transferred to a hospital earlier this month as she suffered a brain stroke and has then been hospitalized in intensive care with a medical crew following up on her case.

Sources close to the renowned singer speculated that Shadia’s family have not wanted to announce that she was being hospitalized, to avoid people’s swarming. At this time she is in deep need of rest and treatment, so they preferred to deny the news of her severe illness.

Who was the singer that stole the hearts of many?

She was dubbed "Dalouet El Cinema" (Cinema’s Sweetheart) by her loyal fans from all over Arab world. Her fans consider her as their dear sweetheart singer. Shadia has enriched the Egyptian art with about 114 songs spanning over 37 years. She was enchanting with her melodious charming and light-heartedness.

Shadia, 86, her birth name is Fatema shaker, played various roles and nailed movie genres that range from political to emotional and comic farce. She began her acting career in 1947 at the age of 16, she usually played the role of a lively young girl. She started her singing career in 1953.

One of her most iconic roles was Soheir, the famous actress who falls in love with the less prominent Ibrahim in the romantic classic movie ‘’Maaboudet El Gamahir’’ (The people's Idol). In addition to her diverse roles, she will always remain a prolific singer whose songs remain favourites on many playlists. In fact, 25 years after retiring and completely disappearing from the limelight, her song ‘Ya Habebty ya Masr’ (Egypt is my beloved) became the voice of the 25th of January revolution.

After her last role in ‘La Taslani Man Ana’ (Don’t ask me who I am) she officially announced her retirement in late 80s.