Marah Jaber: "Smile, General" prevented me from returning to Damascus

In a rare media appearance after a ten-year absence, Syrian actress Marah Jaber revealed a major surprise, revealing that her participation in the series "Smile, General" was the primary reason she remained outside Syria for the past several years.

"Maria"...the role that turned the tables

In a TV interview, Jabr recounted the behind-the-scenes story of her acceptance of the role of journalist "Maria" in the series, which sparked widespread controversy when it aired during Ramadan 2023. She said she received an offer from writer Samer Radwan, who told her frankly that accepting the role might prevent her from returning to Damascus. Despite this, after deep consideration and encouragement from those close to her, Jabr decided to accept the challenge and participate in the work that has created a qualitative shift in Syrian drama.

"The fear was doubled." Damascus is under the weight of anticipation.

Jabr made no secret of the extent of the fear she experienced during the show's run, not only for herself but also for her family members who remained in Syria. She said she was living in a state of anticipation and anxiety, especially given her knowledge that the former regime was targeting the families of the artists who participated in the series.

"I'd rather forget that stage"...towards a new future

Concluding her remarks, Jabr emphasized that she would rather forget that period and everything it entailed, and that she looked forward to a new future in Syria, liberated from the former regime. She said she was prepared to let go of the past and its successes, because hope and the future are what matter most at this stage.

"Smile, General" is a bold work of art.

It's worth noting that the series "Smile, General" tackles the struggle for power and influence within a virtual presidential palace, and the resulting woes for the people. The series stars a group of Syrian drama stars, including Maxim Khalil, Abdul Hakim Qatifan, Sawsan Arshid, Reem Ali, Mazen Al-Nattour, Ezza Al-Bahra, and Ghatfan Ghanem.