In Amr Saad’s recent #ABtalks interview, the Egyptian actor didn’t just share his story; he opened up with raw honesty, reflecting on his life’s highs, lows, and everything in between. From stories of humble beginnings to insights on love, failure, and forgiveness, Saad’s words hit home. Here are the moments that stood out the most, reminding us why we’re drawn to his authenticity and strength.

Starting From Scratch – With a Falafel Cart and a Dream

Before he was on the big screen, Saad was all about hard work. He shared memories of doing odd jobs, from working in a falafel shop to carrying construction materials. He even described riding Uncle Eid’s falafel cart, seeing it as a knight’s steed! These early jobs didn’t just earn him pocket money; they taught him respect for labor and an appreciation for the everyday lives he now portrays.

Turning Observations Into Roles

As a quiet child, Saad often found himself studying the characters around him—traits that later became his key strength as an actor. He recalls working in his uncle’s shop, observing different personalities every day. This childhood knack for observation became his secret ingredient in acting, making his performances relatable and authentic, especially in series like Abdel Aziz Street where he captured everyday personalities he’d seen growing up.

Embracing the Worker’s Perspective

Saad’s journey through life’s different roles—manual laborer, retail clerk, actor—allowed him to understand the world from various perspectives. He spoke about the unique experience of “seeing the world through a laborer’s eyes,” and how it shaped his approach to portraying real people on screen. He credits these experiences with making him more grounded and grateful, even after achieving success.

His Approach to Forgiveness: Strength in Kindness

One of the most powerful moments was when Saad shared his philosophy on forgiveness, a lesson he said he took to heart during a difficult time in his career. When people pushed him down, he didn’t seek revenge, instead choosing to forgive. This choice, he says, is “turning the other cheek,” a strength that he believes brings more peace than retaliation ever could.

Overcoming Rejection and Building Resilience

The path to success wasn’t smooth for Saad, who faced rejection and setbacks more than once. He shared the story of a role he was dropped from after filming, a painful experience that taught him resilience and humility. He reminded us that failure isn’t the end; rather, it’s a stepping stone to something better, quoting a mentor who once told him, “Failure teaches more than success.”

On Love and Family: A Realist’s Take

When asked about love, Saad didn’t give the typical answer. He talked openly about how he values sincerity and straightforwardness, even linking romantic success to compatibility. For Saad, love is less about idealism and more about being real with each other, saying that honesty—even if it’s hard—should be the foundation of any relationship. He also spoke warmly of his ex-wife, Shaimaa, describing her as a “supportive Egyptian woman” whose strength and honesty he admires.

A Life Lesson from His Father

A deeply moving part of the interview came when Saad spoke about his father, who he credits for his values and principles. He remembered his father’s generosity, always keeping small treats in his pockets to hand out to children on the street, an act that left a lasting impact on Saad. “He was a good man,” Saad said, holding back tears, “I hope to live up to even a fraction of his kindness.”

Teaching His Children Values That Matter

As a father of three, Saad revealed how he hopes to instill in his kids the values he learned from his father. He wants them to have confidence, resilience, and, above all, a love for people. “If I’m leaving anything behind, it’s my values,” he said, noting that he wants his kids to remember him for his goodness, not his fame.

Why “Success” Is About More Than Fame

Saad opened up about how he’s more focused on leaving a lasting impact than being at the top of the charts. For him, success is about being “unique, not the best,” staying true to who he is rather than competing with others. This drive for uniqueness, he says, has helped him create original characters and avoid the trap of comparison, focusing instead on the art he wants to create.

A Humble Dream: To Be Remembered for Good

In a moment that resonated deeply, Saad shared his hopes for his legacy. He doesn’t dream of endless fame; instead, he wants to be remembered as someone who contributed something meaningful to the world, someone who made others think. “I want them to say, ‘May God have mercy on him; he left us something worthwhile.’”

Why Amr Saad’s Story Matters

Amr Saad’s #ABtalks interview wasn’t just about his career—it was a window into his values, his struggles, and his heart. His story reminds us that success isn’t always about reaching the top; sometimes, it’s about staying grounded, learning from life, and leaving behind something valuable for others. Saad’s honesty, strength, and humility make him not just a remarkable actor but a deeply inspiring person who knows how to turn life’s challenges into life lessons.