Marwan Najjar, a renowned Lebanese writer, director, producer, and critic, has died at the age of 76. Najjar was one of the most prominent figures in Lebanese drama and left a significant legacy.
His works defined Lebanese childhood and adolescence, and many Lebanese actors rose to fame through his works. Najjar’s extensive archive included theater productions, films, and television series, such as Diala, Al Estaz Mandour, and Min Ahla Byout Ras Beirut.
Najjar began his journey as a writer, director, and producer while studying comparative literature and languages at the American University of Beirut. He started writing and directing plays in college and collaborated with his friend Kifah Fakhoury on a musical show.
Najjar pursued a journalistic career and eventually found himself reporting on political and social issues due to the Lebanese civil war.
Najjar’s big break came when he met TV drama star Hind Abillamah and her husband, director Antoine S. Rémi. The couple gave Najjar his first professional opportunity, and he created a number of TV dramatic episodes.
He continued his career in the early 1980s, writing original scripts and remarkable adaptations from French and English sources.
Najjar was also passionate about education and sharing knowledge and values with succeeding generations. He was instrumental in introducing serious educational shows promoting the “will to conquer all fields of science” and a famous quiz show, Al Moutafawikoun, on Lebanese television.
Najjar’s popularity increased in the 1980s, when laughter was badly needed in Lebanon, and he created a character named Fares Ibn Imm Fares, who became an icon of innocent and naive candor.
He used comedy as a tool of endorsement, serving educational goals, creating the character of the revolutionary old teacher, Ustaz Mandour, who became the symbol of humorous and rigorous teaching.
Despite a remarkable TV career covering comedy, drama, education, documentaries, and cultural contests, Najjar’s dream was still one yard higher than the stalls. He chose the rigor of well-made comedy, adapting the play by Georges Feydeau: A Flea in Her Ear, to introduce local audiences to the charm of structural dynamics.
Marwan Najjar leaves behind a comprehensive portfolio that cannot be erased from memory.
His journey ended after 76 years full of creativity, and he will be remembered as one of the most prominent figures in Lebanese drama.
