Saudi-Egyptian broadcast deal raises issue of censorship
In line with the reform campaign launched by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi TV has signed a contract to broadcast two Egyptian-produced series.
CAIRO — Saudi TV has signed a contract for the exclusive broadcast of two Egyptian drama series across the Arab world beginning during Ramadan 2018. On Dec. 8, Khaled Madkhali, director of state-owned Saudi TV, tweeted that he had signed a contract with Magnum Productions to broadcast “Hidden Worlds,” starring the legendary Egyptian actor Adel Imam, and “Tayeh,” starring the popular Amr Youssef. In a separate tweet, Madkhali added that the move is supported by Saudi Culture Minister Awad al-Awad, noting that it represents a quantum leap for Saudi TV. The cost of this deal has not been disclosed.
At a Cairo press conference on Dec. 3, Madkhali explained that a fondness for Egyptian dramas because of popular actors like Imam will make Saudi TV a center of attention in the Gulf and larger Arab world. Saudi TV is free and accessible across the Middle East.
Madkhali also pointed out that the contract stipulates that the series not violate the norms of Saudi society, and thus must avoid crossing certain moral and political lines. He did not elaborate on the parameters. Although Magnum had originally planned to produce the series independently, it will now do so with input from the Saudis. Al-Monitor attempted to contact Magnum Productions for further details about the deal, but to no avail.
Magnum President Rami Imam said in a press statement released Dec. 9 that Saudi TV will have exclusive rights to re-runs for “Tayeh” and “Hidden Worlds” for 10 years in the region, except in Egypt.
