Hani Mehna: I apologize from the heart to the souls of the late actresses Hani Mehna: I ask the public for forgiveness

Egyptian composer Hani Mehna broke his silence after his recent statements about the late actresses Faten Hamama and Shadia sparked widespread criticism, which many considered an insult to Egyptian art icons.

Mehna posted an official apology on his Facebook page, addressing the families of the actresses and their fans, explaining that his remarks were the result of an “unintentional memory lapse.”

He said: "I apologize from the heart to the souls of the late actresses and to their honorable families, and to all of their audience. It was never my intention to offend any of the artistic icons to whom I have great respect."

“Pressures of live broadcasting” The composer explained that the inaccuracies in his statements were due to two main factors: first, his age and its effect on memory, and second, the pressures of live broadcasting, which require quick focus and instant recall, placing the guest under significant stress. Mehna concluded his statement by asking the public for forgiveness, affirming that throughout his decades-long career, he never had disputes with colleagues, and his relationships have always been based on love and mutual respect.

Insult to Egyptian artistic icons His statements led to Mehna being referred to the Disciplinary Board of the Musicians’ Syndicate, after they considered his remarks offensive to the icons of Egyptian art, particularly regarding the actresses’ alleged disputes. Said Mahmoud, advisor to the Union of Artistic Syndicates, stated that a meeting of syndicate heads decided to refer Mehna for investigation to take the appropriate penalty, which could include removal or fines according to regulations.

The Supreme Council for Media Regulation also referred Mehna to the Union of Artistic Syndicates to take legal measures regarding his statements and banned his media appearances until investigations are complete, emphasizing that this step aims to uphold professional and ethical values and respect for Egyptian art icons, in accordance with media work standards set out in Law No. 180 of 2018.

These developments open the door to the possibility of Hani Mehna being expelled from the Musicians’ Syndicate if the Disciplinary Board decides to apply the maximum legal penalties.