Yasser Qantoush, the lawyer and legal representative of renowned Egyptian singer Sherine Abdel Wahab, has put an end to the recent controversy surrounding reports of the sale of the artist's official YouTube channel. Qantoush categorically denied the veracity of these reports, asserting that the artist has not relinquished her digital rights nor entered into any agreement to sell the channel.

Details of the legal dispute and ongoing investigations

The official statement issued by the artist's legal office clarified that the Public Prosecution in Cairo is continuing its extensive investigations into case number 455 of 2025, Misdemeanors (Economic Cases, Al-Basateen). These investigations are part of the artist's efforts to reclaim her stolen rights. The statement emphasized that Sherine Abdel Wahab is not a party to any sale transaction, but rather a victim of the illegal seizure of her digital assets.

The office indicated that the person who was previously responsible for managing the artist’s official pages is facing charges of seizing the channel and exploiting it to generate financial profits without obtaining legal permission or authorization from the original rights holder, which is a clear violation of intellectual property rights and the laws regulating digital transactions in Egypt.

The importance of digital platforms and the impact of the crisis

This issue is particularly important given Sherine Abdel Wahab's significant artistic standing both locally and regionally. In today's world, official YouTube channels and social media platforms are the primary artery connecting artists to their audiences, and the main source for releasing new work and generating revenue. Therefore, losing control of these platforms not only represents a financial loss, but also hinders direct communication with millions of fans across the Arab world and negatively impacts the marketing strategy for any new artistic endeavor.

Previous legal stance and stern warnings

The legal statement was based on the strength of the artist’s legal position, pointing to previous court rulings that cleared Sherine Abdel Wahab of the accusations that some had tried to attach to her in previous periods, which strengthens her position in the current dispute to recover her rights.

In closing, legal advisor Yasser Qantoush issued a stern warning to the public, as well as all companies and media and advertising agencies, against interacting with any pages currently bearing Sherine Abdel Wahab's name on YouTube, TikTok, or X (formerly Twitter). He emphasized that the exclusive ownership of these accounts belongs solely to the artist, and that their current management is without her official authorization.

The office affirmed its intention to take all strict legal measures and prosecute any entity or individual proven to be dealing with the perpetrators of these pages, or contributing to profiting from them illegally, holding violators fully legally responsible, both criminally and civilly.

In a decisive move aimed at regulating the artistic scene in Egypt, the Actors' Syndicate, headed by Dr. Ashraf Zaki, issued an official decision to permanently halt the production and filming of the series "Rouh OFF," prohibiting its broadcast during the upcoming Ramadan season or at any other time. The syndicate confirmed that this decision is final and irrevocable, following the proven violation by the production company of serious breaches of the regulations and laws governing artistic work in Egypt.

Reasons for the decision and ignoring the warnings

The union explained in its press release that the suspension decision was not arbitrary, but rather a result of producer Bilal Sabri's disregard for a series of official warnings and notices previously issued to him. The union had demanded that the production company adhere to legal procedures and obtain the necessary permits, but the producer persisted in flouting regulations, necessitating decisive intervention to uphold the union's prestige and the rights of its members.

The union investigations revealed that the main reason for the crisis was the circulation of a video clip showing the producer contracting with the famous blogger known as “Umm Jasser” to participate in the work, which is a clear violation of the union law that prohibits employing those who are not registered in the union’s lists or who do not have official work permits, especially in light of the existence of thousands of academic graduates who are waiting for the opportunity.

Context of the crisis: The union confronts the "blogger phenomenon"

This decision comes within the context of a broader campaign led by the Actors' Syndicate to address the phenomenon of social media celebrities (bloggers and TikTokers) entering the field of acting without talent, academic training, or legal permits. The syndicate consistently emphasizes that art is a creative profession with its own sanctity, and that allowing non-specialists to practice it simply because of their online fame harms public taste and reduces opportunities for professional and syndicate-affiliated actors who have dedicated years to study and training.

Legal significance and impact of the decision on the industry

This decision sends a strong message to all production companies in the Egyptian market: the syndicate will not tolerate any violations of Law No. 35 of 1978 and its amendments, which regulate the work of artistic syndicates. The decision emphasizes that protecting the profession and guaranteeing the rights of its members are top priorities, and that any attempt to circumvent the laws for quick "trends" will be met with deterrent penalties, potentially including expulsion or permanent suspension.

The crew of the suspended series

It's worth noting that the series "Rouh OFF" featured a stellar cast before its cancellation, including Munther Rayahneh, Mirna Walid, Salah Abdullah, Nancy Salah, Tarek El Nahry, Sherif Baher, Mohamed Soliman, Taher Abu Leila, and Reda Hamed. The show also heavily relied on rap and festival music stars, featuring artists such as Samir Afrato, Felix, Resha Costa, Samara, Fifty, Sadat, and the Power High band, indicating its direct target audience of young people.

Amidst an atmosphere brimming with excitement and anticipation, the plane carrying Lebanese singing stars Ragheb Alama, Assi El Hallani, and Carole Samaha landed in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, in preparation for one of the biggest musical evenings, titled "Laylat Al-Arz" (Night of the Cedars). This highly anticipated concert is scheduled for February 5th, as part of the packed schedule of events at Riyadh Season, which continues to attract global attention.

A night of musical entertainment with a Lebanese flavor

This evening marks a significant milestone in the concert calendar at the Abu Bakr Salem Theater, which has recently hosted some of the Arab world's biggest stars. The concert's title, "The Night of the Cedars," carries profound symbolic meaning, referencing the cedar tree at the center of the Lebanese flag, promising an evening that blends national pride with authentic musical artistry. The trio is expected to present a diverse selection from their extensive repertoire, with the audience anticipating a fusion of Assi El Hallani's signature energetic Lebanese dabke songs, Ragheb Alama's modern romantic ballads, and Carole Samaha's powerful stage presence.

Riyadh Season: A Destination for Arab Art

This concert is more than just a fleeting event; its significance stems from its role as part of Riyadh Season, which has successfully transformed the Saudi capital into a global entertainment and cultural destination. Such concerts play a pivotal role in fostering cultural and artistic exchange, offering Saudi and Arab audiences residing in the Kingdom the opportunity to enjoy live performances by their favorite stars. The concert also reflects the musical diversity that the season's organizers are committed to providing to satisfy all artistic tastes.

Behind the scenes of the arrival and the stars' reactions

On the social media front, artist Carole Samaha documented moments of travel and arrival, sharing spontaneous snapshots with her colleagues Ragheb and Assi, commenting with the touching phrase: “When the sons of the Cedars come together,” which received widespread interaction from the public who praised the brotherly spirit between the artists.

Intense artistic activity

In a related context regarding the stars' schedule, artist Ragheb Alama's activities are not limited to the Riyadh concert only, but the superstar is preparing to head later to the United Arab Emirates, to perform a huge concert on February 14 on the occasion of Valentine's Day at the Dubai Autodrome Motor City, where he promises his audience there to present a collection of his latest artistic releases in addition to his classic masterpieces.