The family of the iconic Egyptian singer is putting the brakes on a hologram comeback they never approved.
Fez – Abdel Halim Hafez might be gone, but he’s certainly not forgotten, and if his family has anything to say about it, he won’t be popping up in hologram form anytime soon either.
In a strongly worded statement, the late Egyptian singer’s family publicly rejected any involvement in a supposed hologram performance scheduled for June 20 at Morocco’s Mawazine Festival.
The family said they were shocked to see teaser ads circulating across various platforms, official and unofficial, hinting at a digital resurrection of the legendary “Dark-Skinned Nightingale” through a silhouette and vague allusions to a hologram show.
Let’s be clear: they did not approve this.
According to the statement released Saturday evening, no one from Mawazine or any affiliated party reached out to request permission or secure rights to use Abdel Halim Hafez’s name, voice, or image.
In fact, the family emphasized that all such rights are exclusively owned by a single company with which they have a formal agreement.
Any use outside that agreement is, they warned, a legal offense, and they’re ready to pursue action if necessary.
This isn’t just about one show. The family took the opportunity to call on all organizers, producers, and festivals to respect the legal and ethical boundaries that protect the legacy of iconic Arab artists.
As far as they’re concerned, this situation isn’t just misleading, it’s a violation of cultural heritage.
And here’s where things get interesting. Mawazine, one of the biggest music festivals in the region, is known for its star-studded lineups, blending international acts with major Arab artists.
This year, Egypt’s beloved singers Sherine and Ruby are both expected to take the stage.
Ruby has confirmed she’ll be performing a selection of her hits, and Sherine has already posted her excitement on Instagram, telling fans: “Eid Mubarak to my beloved audience, see you soon at Mawazine in Morocco!”
But while fans may be thrilled about seeing their favorite contemporary stars, it seems the festival might have gotten ahead of itself with nostalgic ambitions.
For many Moroccans, Abdel Halim remains a cherished name. He wasn’t just a voice, they remember him as a friend of King Hassan II and a regular cultural presence.
So, perhaps the idea of a hologram was meant to honor that connection.
But for now, it’s clear: no one brings Abdel Halim Hafez back to life without his family’s blessing – and they’re not giving it.
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