Lead:
Murad Aygen has withdrawn from the fifth season of the Turkish drama "Mulberry Drink" (Dut Suyuu) two episodes in, citing dissatisfaction with how his character "Lider" has been developed. The actor confirmed the departure is unrelated to changes in the writing staff but reflects his discomfort with the new direction his role has taken. The series resumes broadcast this week on Show TV.
Top Stories:
Martha Stewart apologizes for Halloween costume portraying homelessness — The 85-year-old American lifestyle expert issued a public apology on Instagram after facing criticism for a costume depicting a homeless person at Halloween. Stewart acknowledged the costume was inappropriate and lacked sensitivity, citing awareness that many people face economic hardship.Egyptian content creator Alia Qamroun remains detained despite prosecution bail — Qamroon's attorney Hasan al-Asiuti confirmed his client has not been released from custody despite a bail order of 5,000 Egyptian pounds from prosecutors. A prior court sentence of one month imprisonment for allegedly damaging a judge's car in Tanta remains final and enforceable; settlement with the injured party is the only path to end the sentence.Film "Shams al-Zanati" faces production uncertainty as producer Raymond Ramses receives three-year sentence — A Cairo court issued an in-absentia ruling sentencing producer Raymond Ramses to three years imprisonment for issuing a check without funds. The conviction raises serious questions about the future of the film starring Mohamed Emam.Dora Bandali to be honored at Al-Zaman Al-Jameel festival — The festival will take place on 22 November at the Ambassadors Hall at Lebanon Casino, with Syrian artist Shukran Murtaja presenting the tribute to Bandali on an elaborately decorated stage.Fadel Shaker teases new single "Nam Al-Lail" from album "Helim Jadid" — The Lebanese artist released a promotional clip from the music video of his latest song, scheduled for release on 3 November 2026. The track marks the opening single from Shaker's new album and follows his recent return to live performance and his signing with Echo Sounds management company.Boudchart announces second Beirut Hall concert for 26 December — Following the sold-out success of his first performance in Lebanon, the international artist has scheduled a second show at Beirut Hall to meet audience demand.Coming Up:
Anou (Anwar al-Bizri) presents the first showing of his musical project "Bird & the Whale — Migration" on 7 November at Hammam al-Jadid in Sidon's old city, with the full production planned for release in 2026. Tunisian artist Amani al-Suwaisi released the music video for "Ajayeb al-Duniya," a romantic song in white dialect featuring choreography directed by Ziad Khuri.