Renowned Egyptian actress Samiha Ayoub passes away at 93

The renowned Egyptian actress Samiha Ayoub passed away on Tuesday, June 3, 2025, at the age of 93. Ayoub was one of the giants of Arab theatre, with a distinguished artistic career spanning from 1947 until her passing, encompassing theatre, cinema, and television.

No official statement has been issued regarding the cause of her death. However, in early May, rumors circulated suggesting she was battling breast cancer. In a phone interview, Ayoub denied these rumors, stating: “All these are false reports. I am in good health, and instead of spreading nice rumors, people spread bad ones.”

She affirmed that her health was stable and denied any reports of suffering from tumors. Despite several media outlets reporting that she had breast cancer, Ayoub never officially confirmed the diagnosis. In previous remarks, she stated that she was in good health and continued to follow up with her doctor for treatment. She also expressed her eagerness to return to her audience with new and diverse roles.

Speculation about her health intensified after she was recently seen with swelling in her hands, reportedly a result of lymphedema—a condition common among breast cancer patients. Lymphedema typically occurs following the removal of lymph nodes, leading to fluid retention and swelling in the affected limb.

Ayoub was born on March 8, 1932, in the Shubra district of Cairo. She graduated from the Higher Institute of Dramatic Arts, where she was mentored by the renowned theatre director Zaki Tulaimat. He introduced her to the stage while she was still a student, casting her in the play Khedmet El-Malika (The Queen's Service), which marked the beginning of her artistic journey.

Throughout her illustrious career, Ayoub starred in numerous plays, including Siket El-Salama, El-Sebnsa, El-Nadam, Phedra, El-Wazeer El-Aasheq, and El-Soltan El-Haer.

She served as the director of the Modern Theatre in 1972 and later managed the National Theatre from 1975, holding the position for 14 years.

Her theatrical repertoire included 170 plays, five of which she directed, including Maqalib Atia. Ayoub’s legacy remains a cornerstone of Arab theatre and cinema, leaving behind an indelible mark on the artistic world.