W Tekabel Habib: A Compelling Drama That Exceeds Expectations

Egypt Today

02-04-2025

Some duos or trios have such undeniable chemistry that, even before watching their series, you just know it's going to be a huge success. From the moment it was announced that Yasmine AbdelAziz and Karim Fahmi would reunite in a new series written by Amr Mahmoud Yassin, anticipation soared—and they certainly did not disappoint us.
Ever since Wa Neheb Tani Leeh aired a few years ago, audiences have been eager to see Karim Fahmi and Yasmine Abdel Aziz together again. Their on-screen chemistry captivated viewers, making them an ideal TV couple. This year, they've done it again, alongside Yassin's script, W Tekabel Habib has not only met but exceeded the high expectations set for it.
Yassin has delivered a much-needed series at a time when viewers have grown tired of the so-called 'working-class drama' or 'essential street viewing.' While this genre has been successful in the past—think Mohamed Sami and Mohammed Ramadan's collaborations or the unique duo of Mostafa Shaaban and Amr Saad in Molok El Gada'ana—recent years have shown that this formula doesn't always work. The first half of Ramadan this year has proven as much.
As we reach the midpoint of Ramadan, it's safe to say that W Tekabel Habib is one of the most gripping series this season. Every episode is packed with action and intrigue, keeping viewers glued to their screens for fear of missing a moment. Unlike many other 30-episode dramas, there's no sense of repetition, and even scenes without the main stars remain compelling. What sets a great writer apart is their ability to end each episode with a cliffhanger that keeps the audience eagerly anticipating the next and Yassin excels at this.
He also has a talent for crafting complex yet realistic human relationships, blending drama and romance seamlessly. The way he has developed these characters makes every scene engaging, even when the leads aren't present. Every actor shines in their role, but the biggest surprise has been Khaled Selim. When the cast was first announced, it was difficult to picture Khaled Selim and Nicole Saba in these roles—not because of their acting abilities, but due to the type of characters they've traditionally played. However, both have delivered performances unlike anything they've done before.
Khaled Selim plays Youssef, Leil's (Yasmine AbdelAziz) husband, who betrays her by marrying Rukaya (Nicole Saba) to save the family business from bankruptcy. Though his character is ruthless, he's impossible to hate, as he commands the screen with a magnetic presence. Nicole Saba, meanwhile, brings elegance and class to the role of the evil Rukaya, making her one of the most attractive characters in the series. Viewers eagerly await her scenes, watching how she strategizes against those who stand in her way.
Anoushka, as the matriarch of the Abu Al Azem family, is in her element. It's impossible to imagine anyone else playing Iglal—a cruel and manipulative woman, yet one whose determination to protect her family earns her a measure of respect. Similarly, Passant Shawky delivers a standout performance as the lovestruck Farah. Though her character's actions may be questionable, anyone who has ever been deeply in love can relate to the transformation love can bring.
Mahmoud Yassen Jr. is another revelation in this series. He plays Hazem, the youngest brother, who is torn between his principles and his desire to please his parents while maintaining a drama-free life. A known playboy, it's clear that this trait will ultimately be his downfall.
Karim Fahmi and Yasmine Abdel Aziz are no strangers to overwhelming success. Together, they form the golden couple of TV dramas. Fahmi's character, Faris, embodies reason, justice, and morality, standing firm in his beliefs even when they go against his family. Every scene featuring Fahmi is electric, and when he shares the screen with Abdel Aziz, the drama reaches another level.
No words can fully capture Abdel Aziz's portrayal of Leil, a devoted wife and mother whose world is turned upside down by her husband's betrayal and his family's cruelty. Her performance in pivotal moments—such as confronting her husband and his new wife or the heartbreaking scene where her daughters are taken from her—demonstrates her immense talent, making viewers fully invested in her pain and resilience.
A vital aspect of any successful series is its opening theme. The choice of singer and the lyrics set the tone for what's to come. With Elissa performing the theme song, W Tekabel instantly draws viewers in, offering a powerful preview of the drama that awaits.