The Egyptian Actors’ Syndicate, represented by its chief Ashraf Zaki, has announced its opposition to the involvement of social media influencers in the fields of cinema and acting, arguing that their presence poses a threat to the integrity of the film industry.
In an interview with Al Arabiya, Zaki stated that the profession of acting has established rules and foundations that must be respected, insisting that the decision is final and non-negotiable. He added, “We have studied acting and the arts and devoted our lives to this profession, so we will not allow TikTok celebrities to practice it.”
Conversely, critic Tarek El-Shennawy believes that Zaki’s statements and the ban will lose their impact over time, particularly given the existence of a legal framework that allows any director to choose the actor that fits their artistic vision.
This decision by the syndicate comes amid widespread debate in the arts community regarding the participation of unqualified individuals in dramatic and cinematic works, raising concerns among many about the future of Egyptian art and its enduring values.
