The Documentary Podcast

The TV drama that shocked the Arab world

9 snips
Jun 14, 2025
Ahmed Abdallah, a BBC Arabic journalist, dives into the groundbreaking Egyptian TV drama 'Lam Shamsaya' that tackled child sexual abuse and shook the Arab world. He discusses the show's profound impact, igniting crucial conversations about trauma within families. Abdallah emphasizes the responsibility of storytelling in sensitive topics and how social media shapes public discourse. He advocates for women's narratives to foster genuine dialogue and understanding surrounding these pressing issues.
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INSIGHT

Groundbreaking TV Drama Topic

  • Lam Shamsiya profoundly exposed child sexual abuse rarely discussed in Arab TV dramas.
  • It highlighted social silences around trauma, power, and trust within families.
ANECDOTE

Family Struggles After Abuse Suspicion

  • Nelly suspects family friend Wissam of abusing her stepson Yusuf, triggering family tension.
  • Tariq violently confronts Wissam, who falls into a coma, sparking blame on Nelly.
INSIGHT

Realism in Abuse Storytelling

  • The show's subtle storytelling captured how abusers manipulate under the guise of affection.
  • It made viewers reconsider how abuse often hides and why it is overlooked.
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