A major bombshell... New document settles the controversy over Abdel Halim Hafez’s marriage

Syrian actor Marwan Abu Shahin suffered a sudden heart attack, which required his transfer to the hospital for necessary treatment, according to a statement from the Syrian Artists Syndicate.
The syndicate confirmed that Abu Shahin, 45, experienced a severe and unexpected cardiac episode, sparking concern among his colleagues in the artistic community and his fans.
In a post on its official Facebook page, the syndicate wrote:"Wishing a speedy recovery to our colleague, the artist Marwan Abu Shahin, after he suffered a severe heart attack. May he return in good health, God willing."
Notable Works of Marwan Abu ShahinBorn in 1980 in the province of As-Suwayda, Marwan Abu Shahin graduated from the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts in 1999.
He has built a rich and diverse artistic portfolio, including work in television, cinema, theater, and voice dubbing. He is especially known for his historical roles, which have left a strong impression on fans of Syrian drama.
Among the historical series he starred in are:Qamar Bani Hashem, Faris Bani Marwan, Rayat Al-Haq, Khalid ibn Al-Walid, and Al-Zahir Baybars. He also appeared in popular drama series such as Spotlight (Buq’at Daw’), Al-Kharba, Bab Al-Hara, and A Hero from This Time.
In cinema, Abu Shahin took part in several films including Gray Spaces, Mercy for the Workers, Circulation, and Under the Moon’s Navel—highlighting the breadth of his artistic contributions across various fields.
In a remarkable move that captured the attention of fans of the late star Abdel Halim Hafez, the singer’s family announced their readiness to finally reveal the truth behind his controversial marriage story, which has remained a topic of public speculation for decades. The revelation will come in the form of a document described by his grandson as “conclusive evidence” that puts an end to the confusion.
Mohamed Shabana, the nephew of Abdel Halim, stated on his official Facebook page—quoting Abdel Halim’s grandson, Abdel Halim El-Shennawy—that the family will share an official document on Friday at 6:00 PM Cairo time through the social media pages dedicated to preserving Abdel Halim’s legacy. The document is expected to end long-standing rumors of his marriage to a famous public figure.
El-Shennawy emphasized that the document confirms there was never a legal marriage and that the relationship in question ended by Abdel Halim’s decision. He noted that the widely circulated letter was sent to him by the woman after the relationship had already ended, firmly denying any formal legal bond.
“A Major Revelation”
The post read: “The mystery of Abdel Halim’s rumored marriage (Who is My Beloved?) that has puzzled his fans in Egypt and around the world for nearly half a century since his passing is about to be resolved.”
It continued: “Tomorrow at 6:00 PM Cairo time, expect a major announcement on Hafez’s official family-run pages. An original document and irrefutable proof will refute the marriage rumors with a certain celebrity—rumors that were spread maliciously to tarnish the image of a great man like Abdel Halim Hafez. The truth is, there was no official union, the relationship ended at Abdel Halim’s will, and the letter in question was sent by the lady after he had ended things. God willing, the full truth will be revealed tomorrow.”
From Orphanhood to Artistic Immortality
Abdel Halim Hafez was born on June 21, 1929, in the village of Al-Hilwat in the Sharqia Governorate. His birth name was Abdel Halim Ali Ismail Shabana. His life was marked by pain from the very beginning—his mother died just days after he was born, and his father passed away before he turned one. He grew up an orphan, raised by his uncle.
A Journey of Unforgettable Artistry
Abdel Halim passed away in London in 1977, leaving behind a remarkable artistic legacy that transcends time and borders. His timeless songs and films continue to be celebrated to this day. Despite his absence, his presence remains deeply rooted in the hearts of fans of authentic Arabic music.
The Nightingale… A Symbol of Emotion and Depth
In his songs, Abdel Halim Hafez conveyed the full spectrum of his life—grief, orphanhood, illness, and unfulfilled love. With his warm voice and sincere emotion, he created a rare artistic phenomenon, making his name synonymous with artistic immortality and noble melancholy.