Egyptian star Sherine steps back amid health, family struggles

CAIRO –

Egyptian music icon Sherine Abdel Wahab has quietly relocated to the home of a fellow artist, seeking refuge from mounting health and psychological challenges, sources close to the singer reveal. The move comes after media attention, spearheaded by prominent TV host Amr Adib, raised alarm over her prolonged absence from public life and prompted urgent calls for her well-being.

Abdel Wahab, celebrated across the Arab world for her powerful vocals and emotional performances, has reportedly been grappling with severe psychological distress that has affected both her personal life and her professional career.

“Sherine needs immediate support,” Adib told viewers on his programme Al Hekaya, stressing that the singer’s situation is urgent. “Her songs have disappeared from the public eye, and no one has been able to reach her. This is a musical tragedy,” he said.

According to insiders, Abdel Wahab’s move was motivated by a desire to avoid interactions with certain family members amid ongoing legal disputes, particularly with her brother. These family conflicts, combined with personal health struggles, have left her largely confined to private spaces, maintaining contact only with a few close friends and her daughters.

Despite her absence, Abdel Wahab’s continues to enjoy immense public sympathy across the Arab world. Fans have expressed concern on social media, though some critics have questioned her withdrawal from the spotlight and perceived retreat from her artistic responsibilities.

The singer previously denied claims of health deterioration in December 2025, posting on Instagram: “My beloved audience across the Arab world, I am well, thank God, at home, and all rumours about my health are false.” Sources close to Abdel Wahab confirm that she had been living in near-total isolation in her Sheikh Zayed residence, with only essential staff for support, distancing herself from public attention.

Notably, Abdel Wahab’s circle of trusted contacts is now extremely limited, including a prominent actress whose sister shares a close friendship with her. Egyptian actors, including Ahmed Saad, have visited her at her new residence to offer support and ensure her safety. Meanwhile, the Egyptian Minister of Social Solidarity Maya Morsi, has been in direct contact, providing guidance and assistance to stabilise her situation.

Abdel Wahab’s last public appearance was at the Mawazine Festival in Morocco in June 2025, though she has remained active in music, releasing selective singles, including a patriotic track composed with Amr Mostafa. She has yet to begin recording her forthcoming album, postponing several projects, including a high-profile commercial song during Ramadan.

Despite her relative absence, Abdel Wahab’s music continues to dominate charts. Her hit “Betmanna Ansak” currently ranks ninth on the Arab Billboard Hot 100 and fifth among the top 100 Arab artists, reflecting her enduring influence and fanbase across the region.

While her retreat is viewed as a temporary measure to recover physically and mentally, sources indicate that Abdel Wahab is being closely supported by friends, colleagues and officials, who are determined to help her navigate this challenging period and eventually return to the stage and studio.