Yasmin Abdel Aziz and Mai Omar Ignite Controversy in Ramadan Drama 2026.. Accusations of "Public Rivalry" Over Viewership Rankings

The controversy has erupted in the Egyptian artistic community and on social media platforms following indirect comments exchanged between actresses Yasmin Abdel Aziz and Mai Omar, amidst competition for viewership rankings in the Ramadan Drama Season 2026, in a scene some considered a breach of traditional artistic competition boundaries.

Yasmin Abdel Aziz's Post Sparks Debate

The story began when Yasmin Abdel Aziz posted on her Instagram account the ranking of the most-watched series on the Shahid platform in Egypt.
She clarified in her post that her series "We Forget" came in first place, followed by the series "She Chemistry" starring Mustafa Gharib, then "Al-Medhah 6" starring Hamada Helal, while the series "The Lady Mona Lisa" starring Mai Omar came in fourth place.

Emotional Response from Mai Omar

Yasmin Abdel Aziz's post did not go unnoticed, as Mai Omar responded with a comment that had an emotional tone, stating that she had hoped her first mention from her colleague would be related to a condolence for her father's passing, rather than a post about viewership rankings.

She added in her comment: "Anyway, thank you, may God not show you sadness," referring to the difficult personal circumstances she is going through after her father's passing a few days ago.

Widespread Division on Social Media

The interaction between the two actresses sparked a wide wave of discussion among the audience on social media, with some considering Yasmin Abdel Aziz's post to carry a kind of "indirect rivalry" to highlight her series' lead.
Conversely, others viewed the posting of viewership rankings as a normal part of promoting dramatic works, especially since the team behind "The Lady Mona Lisa" had previously announced that the work topped viewership rates during the first half of the Ramadan season.

Mohamed Sami Enters the Fray

The controversy escalated after director Mohamed Sami, Mai Omar's husband, entered the fray, posting a comment via Instagram Stories criticizing the timing of Yasmin Abdel Aziz's post.
Sami pointed out that "The Lady Mona Lisa" had just finished airing two days prior, questioning the reason for posting the comparison at this time, which followers considered a direct response to what they described as provocation.
He also hinted that the success of some works might be delayed but ultimately achieved, affirming that he was the one who suggested that "The Lady Mona Lisa" consist of only 15 episodes.