Adel Emam

Adel Emam (Arabic: عادل إمام‎ ʿĀdil Imām; born 17 May 1940) is an Egyptian actor, comedian, and film producer. Referred to as "The Leader" (الزعيم al-Za'īm), Emam is widely regarded as one of the most popular and influential comedians and actors in the history of Egyptian cinema. His career spans over five decades, during which he has starred in over 100 films and several television series.

Emam was born in Mansoura, Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt. He studied agriculture at Cairo University, where he began his acting career in student theater. After graduating, he worked as a clerk in the Ministry of Agriculture before joining the National Theater Troupe in 1962.

Emam made his film debut in 1964 with the film Ana el-Talib (I Am a Student). He gained popularity in the 1970s with a series of successful comedies, including Shafika and Metwali (1970), Al-Ayal Kif (1974), Ghoul el-Tareek (1979), Yabal al-Halal (1986), and Al-Irhab wal Kabab (1992).

Emam's films often address social and political issues, and he has been praised for his ability to make audiences laugh while also making them think. He has been criticized, however, for his sometimes vulgar humor and for his occasional use of slapstick comedy.

Despite the criticism, Emam remains one of the most popular actors in Egypt and the Arab world. His films have grossed over $1 billion worldwide, and he has won numerous awards, including the Best Actor Award at the Cannes Film Festival in 1981 for his performance in Yabal al-Halal.

In addition to his acting career, Emam is also a successful producer. He has founded his own production company, Emam Production, which has produced many of his films. He is also a philanthropist, and he has donated millions of dollars to various charities.

Emam is married to Haleema Salah, and they have three children: Mohamed Emam, Ramy Emam, and Salma Emam.