The rare appearance of iconic Egyptian actor Adel Imam in a recently circulated photo on social media sparked wide interaction among his fans, as the “Leader” appeared in good health—reassuring his audience after years of absence, during which recurring rumors about his condition had spread in recent months.

In the photo, Imam is seen sitting on a chair alongside his close friend, writer Akram El-Saadani, and his brother, producer Essam Imam. A young boy sits between him and Essam, while Imam embraces El-Saadani with his right hand and holds the boy with his left, in a spontaneous moment that restored comfort to the hearts of his admirers.

“The Leader is in good health” El-Saadani had previously denied reports in July that Adel Imam was suffering from Alzheimer’s, affirming at the time that he was in good health and that they were in regular contact, often reminiscing about art and old memories. He added that he had met him several times recently, where they enjoyed pleasant gatherings reminiscent of their old days in Giza neighborhoods.

According to Egyptian press reports, Imam has remained out of the public eye for nearly four years. His last official appearance was at the wedding of his grandson, Adel Rami Imam, in early July, though his family deliberately prevented attendees from taking photos of him, as he quickly left the celebration after a short while.

This latest appearance, alongside El-Saadani and Essam Imam, has offered a new reassurance to his fans and dispelled ongoing rumors—rekindling for Egyptians and Arabs alike a sense of nostalgia for one of the most enduring icons of Arab cinema.