The year 2024 will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the most turbulent in the history of the Arab entertainment industry. While it brought the usual buzz of artistic achievements, it also uncovered celebrity feuds. From legal battles to public disputes and controversies, the events of 2024 revealed a human side to the stars that often lies hidden behind the glamour.
Social media amplified these incidents, turning private matters into public debates and sparking widespread reactions. As audiences, these incidents should encourage us to look beyond the headlines and acknowledge the human vulnerabilities that lie beneath the spotlight.
In this article, we break down the most significant feuds that shook the Arab entertainment world in 2024.
Sherine Abdel Wahab's Conflict with Hossam Habib
No discussion of 2024's celebrity dramas is complete without mentioning Sherine Abdel Wahab. Known for her exceptional talent, Sherine's year was marked by intense personal and professional challenges. Her ongoing disputes with her ex-husband, Hossam Habib, took a dark turn when allegations of physical assault surfaced. A widely circulated video showed Sherine in a visibly distressed state, leading to her hospitalisation and a legal complaint against Hossam. Adding to her woes, Sherine accused her brother, Mohamed, of forcibly admitting her to a rehabilitation centre against her will.
Sherine Abdel Wahab's Dispute with Rotana
Sherine's professional life was no less turbulent. Her contractual disputes with Rotana Audio over song rights escalated, with the singer claiming she was being conspired against to stifle her career. This escalated to her songs being removed by Rotana and having her leak the story online.
Sherine Abdel Wahab's Controversial Remarks
During a concert in Kuwait, Sherine sparked outrage by making an offhand remark about late composer Mohamed Rahim. The backlash reached the Musicians Syndicate, which launched an investigation into her conduct. In a heartbreaking turn of events, her daughter attempted suicide after becoming a victim of blackmail, adding to the family's ongoing struggles.
Amr Diab's Court Battle
A video of Amr Diab slapping a fan attempting to take a selfie went viral, resulting in a lawsuit demanding a hefty compensation of 5 million EGP. This incident highlighted the fine line between public adoration and personal boundaries.
Mohamed Fouad's Hospital Incident
Mohamed Fouad made headlines for an altercation at a hospital, where he reportedly verbally abused and physically threatened medical staff. The dispute ended in reconciliation after Fouad issued a public apology.
Ramy Sabry's Beef with Wegz
A feud erupted between Ramy Sabry and Wegz when Ramy criticised the incomprehensibility of rap lyrics. Wegz retaliated sharply, claiming that rap has surpassed traditional music genres in popularity. The tension escalated when Ramy's wife joined the fray, defending her husband. Eventually, Ramy extended an olive branch, calling Wegz his little brother.
Haifa Wehbe's Suspension by the Syndicate
The Lebanese star faced suspension from performing in Egypt after breaching contracts with a production company and cancelling a North Coast concert. This decision by the Musicians Syndicate sparked debates over professionalism and accountability.
Omar Zahran's Jewellery Theft Case
Director Omar Zahran was sentenced to two years of hard labour for stealing jewellery from artist Shalimar El Sharbatly, drawing attention to ethical lapses in the industry. It escalated with Basma Wahba defending Zahran on live TV, which later backfired as Shalimar personally came for her in a leaked phone call.
Medhat El Adl’s Feud with Mohsen Gaber
A public feud over the rights to Umm Kulthum's musical legacy erupted between producers Medhat El Adl and Mohsen Gaber. The dispute highlighted the complexities of preserving and monetising cultural heritage.
Amr Mostafa's Accusation of Fellow Composers
Composer Amr Mostafa stirred controversy by accusing colleagues like Madin, Aziz El Shafei, and Hassan El Shafei of plagiarism. This public spat drew attention to longstanding grievances within the music industry.
Sulaf Fawakherj's Rivalry with Karis Bashar
The rivalry between Syrian actresses Sulaf Fawakherji and Karis Bashar flared up again when Karis replaced Sulaf in the series Habak. This casting decision reignited tensions, highlighting competitive dynamics in regional cinema.
