By Ahmed Amin
A few years ago, Egyptian rappers were still fighting for mainstream recognition. But today, they’re not only headlining stages — they’re breaking into the silver screen.
Marwan Pablo, widely seen as the godfather of Egyptian trap, is set to make his acting debut in the upcoming film Egy Best. Starring Ahmed Malek and Salma Abu Deif, the film is expected to begin shooting soon and will also feature Mohamed Abdo, founder of Black Tima and a celebrated actor in his own right. All gathered in a work written by Ahmed Hosny, directed by Marwan Abdel Moneim, and produced by The Planet Studios.
Still, Pablo isn’t the first rapper to make the leap to film — he’s part of a growing wave of artists gaining recognition beyond music, powered by massive youth appeal. Some made it to the big screen earlier, but who exactly? That’s the short trip we’re taking today, looking back at the rappers who’ve already made their way into cinemas.
Flex – Welad El Shams (2025)
During the 2025 Ramadan season, drill star Flex made his acting debut in Welad El Shams, appearing alongside Ahmed Malek and Taha Desouky. Notably, he’s expressed a clear interest in expanding his screen presence, stating so directly in a TV interview.
Abyusif – El Ghawy (2025) – El Leila We Elly Fiha (2022)
Widely regarded as the godfather of Egyptian rap, Abyusif returned to the screen in 2025 with his second acting role in the Ramadan series Al Ghawy, starring alongside Ahmed Mekky, Amr Abdel Gelil, and Aicha Ben Ahmed. He played the role of Kaabala, following his 2022 debut in El Leila We Elly Fiha.
Wegz – Bimbo (2021)
Wegz made his acting debut in Bimbo — a series that clearly placed its trust in rappers, both on the mic and on screen. He played the role of Gaber alongside Ahmed Malek, Huda El Mufti, and Ahmed El Azaar.
Abo El Anwar – Meen Ysadak (2024)
Abo El Anwar has begun carving out a screen presence, making his acting debut in the 2024 film Meen Ysadak. While he didn’t appear in the 2021 series Bimbo, he did contribute its standout credits song, marking an early crossover between his music and visual storytelling. With more appearances likely, he seems poised for a growing role on screen.
image via Abo El Anwar
With names like Marwan Pablo stepping into film, the line between music and cinema is blurring fast. And if the past is any indication, the future holds even bigger stages — and screens — for Egypt’s rap icons.
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