Latest news with #Hawass
Newsweek
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Newsweek
Joe Rogan's "Worst Podcast" Guest Hits Back
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. Prominent Egyptian archaeologist Zahi Hawass has accused podcaster Joe Rogan of pushing a false narrative that denies Egyptians built the pyramids—an agenda he told Newsweek he had confronted head-on with evidence. Responding to Rogan's description of their episode on The Joe Rogan Experience as possibly his "worst podcast," Hawass said he "was not bothered" by the negative comment—as long as he didn't allow the host to push a "nonsense" narrative on ancient Egyptian civilization. Newsweek has reached out to Joe Rogan's team via email for comment. The Context The two-hour episode of Joe Rogan's podcast on ancient Egypt aired on May 14 and has also been viewed by over a million people on YouTube. Hawass—cigar in hand—cited detailed archaeological evidence supporting the view that massive monuments such as the Great Pyramids of Giza were built by ancient Egyptians thousands of years ago and rejected theories that others could have built them. Speaking to Newsweek from the United States, where he is currently on a lecture tour, Hawass, the former minister of antiquities said: "I was direct and firm. What matters to me is defending Egyptian civilization." "Egypt's Indiana Jones" Hawass, who has embraced the nickname "Egypt's Indiana Jones", is an internationally recognized leading Egyptologist, but his critics—among them Egyptians—accuse him of self-promotion and monopolizing the field. Many Egyptians criticized his tone on Rogan's show as well as the content of the podcast. Hawass began the conversation with Rogan by dismissing the claims of late radio host Art Bell that Egyptians couldn't have moved the stones to build the pyramids, recounting how he showed Bell skilled quarrying techniques. Rogan then questioned him—asking how the stones were moved 5,000 years ago. At one point, Rogan asked if papyrus was made of animal skin — rather than the papyrus reeds used by ancient Egyptians. Egyptian archaeologist Zahi Hawass speaks to journalists during a conference to announce a series of archaeological discoveries on January 8, 2025 in Luxor, Egypt. Egyptian archaeologist Zahi Hawass speaks to journalists during a conference to announce a series of archaeological discoveries on January 8, 2025 in Luxor, Egypt. Photo byWhile Rogan praised Egypt's monumental achievements, achknowledging he'd never visited the country, their exchange centered on Rogan asking, "How do you know?" and Hawass replying, "I found it—I wrote it." Who Built The Pyramids? A week later, Rogan mocked Hawass and weighed in again on skeptical theories over who built the pyramids. "This is this closed-minded fellow that's been in charge of gatekeeping all of the knowledge," said Rogan, who has millions of followers and has interviewed President Donald Trump among numerous top figures. "That might have been the worst podcast I've ever done, but maybe a good one too," Rogan commented. Hawass has dismissed recent Italian research using Synthetic Aperture Radar tomography, which suggested the presence of massive vertical shafts beneath the Khafre pyramid. "I'm not concerned about attacks, even from others. I've been dealing with criticism my entire life; I've been working in archaeology and on the pyramids for over 50 years," Hawass told Newsweek. What People Are Saying Dr. Zahi Hawass told Newsweek: "The man clearly has an agenda aimed at denying that Egyptians built the pyramids. At the very least, that's nonsense. I didn't let him push that narrative—I responded with all the evidence. He produced a podcast about the pyramids featuring Zahi Hawass, but he didn't even read." Joe Rogan mockingly told Aaron Rogers on The Joe Rogan Experience episode of May 21: "He's discovered everything, basically. He's the best." Egyptian comedian and satirist Bassem Youssef wrote on Facebook, translated from Arabic: "The topic of Zahi Hawass and Joe Rogan has many angles that could be discussed. But from a scientific standpoint—and regardless of what might be said about Zahi Hawass's career (most of which would likely be negative)—Zahi Hawass, whether we agree with him or not, was clearly more knowledgeable in history and related fields than Joe Rogan, who's more of a blabbermouth and conspiracy theorist."
See - Sada Elbalad
4 days ago
- Politics
- See - Sada Elbalad
Zahi Hawass: Global Icon Amid Social Media Turmoil
Hatem Dwidar-Hassanain Tayea In recent days, renowned Egyptian archaeologist Zahi Hawass has found himself at the center of intense social media backlash following his appearance on The Joe Rogan Experience. The controversy has ignited an online firestorm, revealing the growing gap between traditional media's role in shaping informed discourse and the unchecked chaos of social media commentary. In an age where trending topics override truth, Hawass—a scholar with decades of achievements—is being targeted by individuals with little to no understanding of Egyptology or the Arabic language. These unqualified voices have taken it upon themselves to 'correct' a world expert, not out of academic interest, but for viral attention. This wave of misinformed outrage exemplifies the danger of unregulated digital platforms, where credibility is easily drowned out by clout-chasing and misinformation. The interview itself was not a casual or opportunistic event. Joe Rogan pursued Hawass for over a year. The delay was not due to hesitation, but because Hawass is a globally in-demand figure with ongoing responsibilities. The very fact that one of the world's most influential media personalities worked so hard to secure the interview speaks volumes. Zahi Hawass doesn't seek fame—fame seeks him. Beyond the fabricated errors highlighted online, there is a deeper subtext in the backlash: a broader attempt to undermine the authenticity of ancient Egyptian civilization. Criticism wasn't merely directed at Hawass personally; it was aimed at the legacy he represents—Egypt's documented, peer-reviewed, and globally respected heritage. Agree or disagree with his views, Zahi Hawass remains a towering figure in global archaeology. He is perhaps the most internationally recognized Egyptian voice today. His career has brought Egypt's history to millions, elevated the global status of its monuments, and contributed to the protection and promotion of its cultural identity. That legacy doesn't need defending—it speaks for itself. As discourse becomes increasingly driven by algorithm rather than accuracy, we must be cautious. Judgments made in haste, based on half-truths and social media soundbites, risk diminishing not only individuals but the credibility of entire fields. Zahi Hawass's life's work stands on solid ground. The world knows it. And Egypt should remember it. read more Analysis- Turkey Has 0 Regional Allies... Why? Analysis: Russia, Turkey... Libya in Return For Syria? Analysis: Who Will Gain Trump's Peace Plan Fruits? Analysis: Will Turkey's Erdogan Resort to Snap Election? Analysis: What Are Turkey's Aspirations in Iraq? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Mercenaries In Libya... Who Should Be Blamed? Opinion & Analysis Analysis- How 'Libya Nightmare' Takes Erdogan to Algiers Opinion & Analysis Analysis: What Happens After Brexit? Opinion & Analysis Analysis: Strategic Significance of Libya's Sirte, Jufra! News Ayat Khaddoura's Final Video Captures Bombardment of Beit Lahia News Australia Fines Telegram $600,000 Over Terrorism, Child Abuse Content Arts & Culture Nicole Kidman and Keith Urban's $4.7M LA Home Burglarized Sports Former Al Zamalek Player Ibrahim Shika Passes away after Long Battle with Cancer Sports Neymar Announced for Brazil's Preliminary List for 2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers News Prime Minister Moustafa Madbouly Inaugurates Two Indian Companies Arts & Culture New Archaeological Discovery from 26th Dynasty Uncovered in Karnak Temple Business Fear & Greed Index Plummets to Lowest Level Ever Recorded amid Global Trade War Arts & Culture Zahi Hawass: Claims of Columns Beneath the Pyramid of Khafre Are Lies News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks
Egypt Independent
24-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Egypt Independent
Archaeologist Zahi Hawass set to discuss 12 mysteries during tours of US and Canada
Egyptian Archaeologist Zahi Hawass is set to continue his grand lecture tour in the US and Canada, which runs from May to August. Titled 'Discover the Greatest Secrets of the Land of the Pharaohs,' Hawass will discuss several amazing ancient mysteries that have been buried beneath Egypt's sands for thousands of years. The archaeologist said on his official website: 'For decades, I have shared Egypt's history with the world, but now I present to you discoveries no one has yet heard of! We are in a golden age of exploration and revelation, and now is the time to uncover the deepest secrets.' During these lectures, Hawass will discuss 12 of the most mysterious archaeological discoveries: New Pyramid Discovered in Egypt Lost Golden City's Next Chapter The Hunt for Royal Tombs The Mystery of the Unknown Queen Valley of the Kings Breakthroughs New Discoveries at Saqqara Inside Ramses II's Tomb DNA Unlocked Secrets of the Great Pyramid Mysteries of the Sphinx Cleopatra and Mark Antony's Lost Tomb King Tut's Final Mystery Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
Time of India
23-05-2025
- Science
- Time of India
Joe Rogan recalls his 'worst podcast ever'
Joe Rogan, in a candid moment on his podcast, recently labeled his May 13 conversation with renowned Egyptian archaeologist Dr. Zahi Hawass as "the worst podcast I have ever done." The episode was intended to delve into the mysteries of ancient Egypt, but became a contentious exchange that has since sparked widespread discussion among listeners and experts alike. Dr. Hawass, a former Minister of Antiquities in Egypt, joined Rogan to discuss recent claims by Italian researchers Corrado Malanga, Filippo Biondi, and Armando Mei. The team had released satellite images suggesting the existence of massive vertical shafts and potential underground structures beneath the Khafre pyramid at Giza. Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Tan Thuan Dong: Unsold Furniture Liquidation 2024 (Prices May Surprise You) Unsold Furniture | Search Ads Learn More Undo During the podcast, Rogan pressed Dr. Hawass on these claims, referencing the satellite imagery and the use of tomographic radar technology. However, Dr. Hawass dismissed the findings as "bulls***," stating, "I'm not a scientist," and repeatedly directing Rogan to his own publications for answers. Live Events This approach frustrated both Rogan and his audience, with the podcaster remarking, "Just to see this closed-minded fellow that's been in charge of gatekeeping all the knowledge about Egypt." The tension escalated when Rogan brought up the Tomb of Osiris , an ancient underground burial complex in Giza. Dr. Hawass, who had explored the tomb in 2008, downplayed the significance of the radar findings, leading Rogan to question the archaeologist's openness to new methodologies. Listeners took to social media to express their disappointment, noting Dr. Hawass's frequent interruptions and evasive answers. One user commented, "He literally couldn't let Joe finish one sentence." The episode has since been widely criticized, with many labeling Dr. Hawass as Rogan's most challenging guest to date. Dr. Hawass has long been a critic of figures like Graham Hancock, who advocate for unconventional interpretations of ancient history. Their contentious relationship dates back to a 2015 debate in Egypt, where Dr. Hawass abruptly exited the stage during Hancock's presentation.
Daily News Egypt
06-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily News Egypt
2025: Landmark year for Egyptian archaeology
Renowned Egyptian archaeologist Zahi Hawass has sparked global anticipation by hinting at groundbreaking archaeological discoveries expected in 2025. Speaking in Phoenix, Arizona, during the first stop of his North American lecture tour to promote Egyptian tourism, Hawass captivated an American audience with stories from his storied career and the latest developments in Egyptology. The event was attended by tourism expert Mustafa Lotfy. In a talk that spanned ancient mysteries and modern breakthroughs, Hawass shared highlights from his personal and professional journey—from his early fascination with ancient Egypt to becoming one of the world's most recognizable figures in archaeology. He emphasized that passion is the cornerstone of success in any field, particularly one as demanding and rewarding as archaeology. One of the major revelations of the evening was the recent discovery of the tomb of Prince Weser-Ef-Ra in Saqqara. The prince was the son of King Userkaf, the first ruler of Egypt's Fifth Dynasty during the Old Kingdom. Hawass noted that the find includes an extraordinary false door carved from pink granite, measuring 4.5 meters in height and 1.15 meters in width—unprecedented in scale. The door is inscribed with the prince's titles, including 'Hereditary Prince,' 'Governor of Buto and Nekhbet,' 'Royal Scribe,' 'Vizier,' and 'Judge.' Another fascinating discovery discussed was a statue grouping of King Djoser, his wife, and their ten daughters. According to initial studies, the statues were originally placed in a chamber adjacent to Djoser's iconic Step Pyramid and were relocated to Weser-Ef-Ra's tomb during a later period. Looking ahead, Hawass proclaimed that 2025 will be a year of remarkable archaeological revelations in Egypt. He suggested that several long-standing questions—especially those concerning the pyramids and DNA analyses of royal mummies—are likely to be answered in the coming months. Hawass also delved into some of Egypt's most iconic archaeological enigmas, including the Great Pyramid of Khufu, the Sphinx, and the tombs of the pyramid builders, which he reiterated as definitive proof that Egyptians—not foreign laborers—built the pyramids. He also highlighted recent findings in the Saqqara region of Giza. The lecture covered the 'Golden City' of Luxor, considered the largest ancient settlement ever unearthed in Egypt. Founded by King Amenhotep III, the ninth ruler of the Eighteenth Dynasty, the city dates back to Egypt's New Kingdom era. Amenhotep's son, Akhenaten, co-ruled with him during the final eight years of his reign. The city features remarkably well-preserved streets and buildings, with some walls still standing at three meters high. 'This city is the largest administrative and industrial settlement from the height of the Egyptian Empire,' Hawass explained. 'Entire houses and city blocks have been uncovered—offering a unique window into daily life during the New Kingdom.' Hawass concluded the evening with a lively Q&A session, fielding questions about modern excavation techniques, the mysteries of ancient Egyptian civilization, and the future of archaeological research in the region. His enthusiasm, combined with the magnitude of recent and upcoming discoveries, left the audience eager for what 2025 might reveal beneath Egypt's timeless sands.
