Madiha Kamel, a renowned Egyptian actress, embarked on a remarkable three-decade-long career in cinema, television, and theater, accumulating an impressive 140 credits. As a child, she showcased her passion for acting by participating in school plays, her talent and beauty already evident.
At just 16, she gained widespread recognition, earning the title of "The Beach Girl" in a beauty contest in Alexandria, with her photograph gracing the cover of the prominent entertainment magazine "Al-Kawakeb". Despite receiving numerous acting offers, her father's concerns for her well-being in the entertainment industry led him to initially refuse her participation. However, he eventually relented, allowing her to take part in a few fashion shows, though her true ambition remained to pursue an acting career.
Madiha Kamel relocated to Cairo in 1962 to complete her high school education and subsequently enrolled at the Faculty of Arts at Ain Shams University in 1965. Her professional journey began in 1964, with small roles in film and theater, complemented by her work as a fashion model. Over time, she transitioned from minor parts to leading roles, with her breakout performance opposite Farid Shawqi in 30 Yom fi el-Sign (1966) being a significant milestone.
After a brief hiatus, Madiha Kamel returned to the spotlight, taking on numerous second-lead roles in both Egypt and Lebanon, including Hello Shalaby (1969),Oghneya Ala El Mamar (1972),Zaier el-fager (1975),and The Liar (1975). Her big break came when director Kamal El Sheikh cast her in the lead role of El-Soud ela al-hawia (1978),alongside Mahmoud Yassine. She also experienced significant success with El Bashayer (1987).
Throughout her illustrious career, Madiha Kamel received numerous film awards, including the State Encouragement Award in 1983 for Ashyaa Ded El Qanoon (1982),the Catholic Center Award for Oyun la tanam (1982),the Critics and Writers Association Award for Bariq Aynayk (1982),and an honorary award at the Mediterranean Film Festival in Alexandria for her roles in Al Qitt Asloh Assad (1985) and Wa Laken She' ma Yabqa (1985).
Madiha Kamel retired from acting in April 1992 due to religious and personal reasons, with her final film appearance being in Bawabat Iblees (1993).
