Oud Exclusive

Shereen Reda: Honesty Is the Shortcut to Truth… and Cinema Taught Me to Be Myself

Oct 19, 2025

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Fashion: Fendi، Accessories: Fendi special thanks to: St. Regis

In a world where images and roles shift at the speed of light, Shereen Reda remains one of the Arab world's most genuine and daring actresses, a woman unafraid to break molds or repeat the familiar. Instead, she constantly seeks the unfamiliar, rediscovering herself with every new role. Between cinema, which shaped her identity as an actress, and the characters that redefined how women are portrayed on screen, Shereen speaks to us with her signature honesty about art, fashion, truth, and the dream of theater that still awaits her on the horizon.

You've worked across cinema, television, and theater, each with its own rhythm and audience. Which medium do you feel shaped you most as an actress?

I've worked in cinema and television, but unfortunately, I haven't done theater yet. I think cinema shaped me the most as an actress. I always prefer roles that are nothing like me, they give me the freedom to explore a side of myself that doesn't exist in real life.

Many of your roles have challenged stereotypes about women in Arab cinema. Was that always intentional? And are there any boundaries you still want to break?

The one boundary I haven't crossed yet is playing a messy, unpolished character, something completely unlike me. That's what I'm always drawn to.
I've always said I wish I could play a man. I know that's impossible, but who says we have to stop dreaming?

Is there a specific project you consider a turning point in your career?

Yes, definitely, "Photocopy". That film was a real turning point for me. I was so young at the time, and it made people realize that I could actually be a serious actress.

Fashion plays a role in shaping how the public perceives you, but it's also a form of self expression. How do you view the role of fashion in shaping the identity of Arab women, especially in the arts?

For me, fashion is about what suits me, not about following trends. I don't care whether skinny pants are in or wide ones are trending, I wear what looks good on me and reflects my personality. I don't like extravagance, Im very simple.

As for Arab women, I truly believe they're among the most stylish women in the world. Women in our region love fashion, they're beautiful, elegant, and always well dressed. That makes me proud to be an Arab woman.

There's an increasing overlap between the worlds of fashion and entertainment. How do you balance being an actress, a cultural figure, and a style icon at once?

A style icon! Honestly, I just dress appropriately for events and film festivals. I wear what I feel looks good, not to make a fashion statement or create a "boom." I simply like wearing things that are chic, fun, and feel right.

You're known for being outspoken and honest. Do you think Arab audiences are becoming more accepting of that, especially from women?

Yes, I'm honest and bold, and that's what people want. They want truth. No one likes being lied to, and the audience today is very smart. If an artist appears on TV and lies, people can tell. They're aware and sharp.
I've always believed that honesty is the shortest path.

What's the biggest misconception about you that you wish people would let go of?

People think I'm rude or overly bold, but I'm not. I'm just being myself. I think people have simply forgotten what honesty looks like.

What's your advice for young Arab creatives, actors, designers, or filmmakers, who want longevity in their careers?

The road ahead is long and it's going to be hard, but don't give up. Success is beautiful, and when you love what you do, when you truly work with passion, you'll succeed eventually. There will be obstacles, but just keep going, never stop.