As the start of the Ramadan television season approaches, production of several highly anticipated dramas is facing disruption due to conflicts among cast and crew. Recent incidents, including a reported altercation on the set of an upcoming series, highlight the pressures and tensions inherent in fast-paced television production. These disputes are not only causing delays but are also, in some cases, involving actors’ unions and potential legal action.
The most recent incident involves veteran actress Salwa Othman and director Yasmine Ahmed Kamel during filming for the series “Ab Butun” (A Father But), starring Mohamed Farrag and Hager Ahmed. According to reports, a heated exchange occurred between Othman and Kamel on location, prompting Othman to seek assistance from Ashraf Zaki, head of the Actors Syndicate, to resolve the issue. Sources within the production team indicated the disagreement stemmed from Othman’s dissatisfaction with Kamel’s directing approach, which she reportedly felt diminished her experience as a long-standing performer.
The dispute was reportedly resolved following Zaki’s intervention, allowing filming to resume. “Ab Butun” aims to address the sensitive topic of child custody arrangements following divorce, advocating for more flexible and child-friendly visitation policies beyond traditional settings. The series is written by Amr Daly and directed by Hussein El Monbawy.
The cast of “Ab Butun” also includes Riyad El Khouli, Ahmed Khaled Saleh, Khaled Selim, Maha Nassar, Karim Qassem, Ahmed El Shamy, Mimi Gamal, and Hoda Eterby. The series is just one example of the challenges facing Ramadan productions this year, with several reports surfacing of disagreements and conflicts on various sets.
Meanwhile, Salwa Othman has publicly praised director Mohamed Samy, following his recent decision to step back from directing television dramas. In a March 22, 2025 interview, Othman described Samy as a “kind and beloved” figure, dismissing claims of him being a “dictator or temperamental.” She stated, “May God preserve him as a blessing, because he is a exceptionally skilled and beautiful director and understands what he is doing. May God protect him… He is a genuinely beautiful person who loves his actors and guides them to be the best they can be.”
Othman shared that she was cast in the series “Sid El Nas” (People of the Nation) after actress Wafaa Amer was unable to continue due to a health issue. She emphasized that such casting decisions are often a matter of fate and that Samy had personally recommended her for the role. She described Amer as a “big and talented star.”
In a recent podcast interview, Othman further elaborated on her positive experiences working with Samy, attributing her success to his guidance and support.
The increasing frequency of on-set disputes raises questions about the working conditions and pressures faced by actors and filmmakers during the demanding Ramadan production season. The demand for efficient production schedules often clashes with the creative process and individual artistic sensibilities, leading to friction and conflict. The involvement of the Actors Syndicate in resolving these issues underscores the importance of protecting the rights and well-being of performers.
As Ramadan draws closer, the focus will be on whether these productions can overcome these challenges and deliver the entertainment that audiences anticipate. The incidents serve as a reminder of the complexities involved in bringing these stories to life and the importance of fostering a collaborative and respectful environment on set.
The coming weeks will be crucial as production teams race to finalize their projects. Audiences will be watching not only the finished products but also the unfolding drama behind the scenes. Share your thoughts on the challenges facing Ramadan dramas in the comments below.
