Remembering Salah Kabil on His 89th Birth Anniv.

The 89th birth anniversary of Salah Kabil is being observed today.

It has been 30 years since renowned actor Kabil passed away after a battle with diabetes. However, he is still remembered by many stars and fans across the Arab world.

The lat actor is regarded as the pioneer of realistic acting, something that helped him bring highly complex characters to life on the big screen. Here is a look at his rich legacy

Born in June 1931, in the Nosa El Gheit village in Dakahlia province, he received his degree from the Department of Law at Cairo University. Following his passion, he joined the Theatrical Institute to study acting, and later he worked in the Television Theatre.

After joining the Television Theatre troupe, Kabil started proving himself as one of the finest actors of his time through his amazing performances in noted productions including “Shei Fi Sadri” (Something on my Chest), “El Los Wel Kelab” (The Thief and the Dogs), and “Layla ‘Asifa Gedan” (A Very Stormy Night).

Throughout his career, he featured in about 70 movies and build a very impressive resume that included movie and TV roles.

He is well known for his remarkable works, such ‘Al Qahira Wel Nas’ (Cairo and the People) in 1972, ‘Zaynab Wel ‘Arsh’ (Zeynab and the Throne) in 1979, ‘Domou Fi Ayoun Waqha’ (Tears in Shameless Eyes) in 1980, ‘Bekiza We Zaghloul’ in 1986, ‘Dhamir Abla Hakmit’ (Abla Hekmat’s Conscience) in 1991, “Bayn El Qasreen” (Palace Walk) in 1962, “Ziqaq El Midaq” (Midaq Alley) in 1963, “Nahnu La Nazra’ El Shouk” (We Don’t Sow Thistles) in 1970, “Ughneya Ala El Mamar” (Song on the Border 1972, “Layla El Qabdh Ala Fatima” (The Night Fatima Was Arrested) in 1984, “El Barii” (The Innocent) in 1986 and ‘Layali El Haleema’ in 1992.

Kabil debuted in the film industry with “Zikak EL Midaq” (1963), marking his first mainstream film appearance as an actor.

He played the famous role of Abbas in “Nahno La Nzra’ Alshwk” film, directed by Hussin Kamal, starring alongside Shadia, Mahmoud Yassin, and Karima Moukhtar.

Moreover, he presented a variety of unforgettable villain roles. That includes playing  “Bayn El Qasreen” (Palace Walk) in 1962, “Ziqaq El Midaq” (Midaq Alley) in 1963, “Nahnu La Nazra’ El Shouk” (We Don’t Sow Thistles) in 1970, “Ughneya Ala El Mamar” (Song on the Border 1972, “Layla El Qabdh Ala Fatima” (The Night Fatima Was Arrested) in 1984.

However, his magnificent performance in the  ‘Ya Azizi Kolna Lesos' film, starring Mahmoud Abdel-Aziz won much praise from Arab fans and critics alike.

His breakthrough came with (The Bellydancer and the Politician) in 1990, starring renowned actress Nabila Abid.

In 1965, Kabil debuted on television with the teleplay (The Thief and the Dog), written by Naguib Mahfouz for the National Television.

He later starred in several teleplays and continued his successful journey as a versatile television actor with his tremendous performances in “Layla Asifa Gedan” (A Very Stormy Night).

His last films were ‘Zakia Hanim'(Lady Zakia), Terrorism, and ‘Bawabt ElHalwany’ (The Gate of Halwany).

Unfortunately, he died of a brain hemorrhage on December 3, 1992, according to his son Amr Salah. His death came as a shock to the entire Arab world.

While many would probably agree that Kabil didn’t get nearly as much credit as he deserves, it’s also safe to say that his legacy will continue to live on through the many things he contributed to the entertainment industry and the Arab society as a whole.

Over the course of his career as an actor, he touched more lives than he will ever know. Even in his death, he will continue to leave an impact on people all over the Arab world.