The fifth edition of the Joy Awards unfolded in a spectacular fashion at the ANB Arena in Riyadh on Saturday, showcasing the brilliance of both Arab and international stars. Organized by the General Entertainment Authority (GEA) under the leadership of Turki Al Al Sheikh, the event served as a grand celebration of artistic excellence, bringing together a diverse array of prominent figures, celebrities, and esteemed guests from around the globe.
The ceremony commenced with a series of captivating artistic performances that set the tone for the evening. As the audience was treated to a visual and auditory feast, the anticipation for the awards presentation grew. The awards recognized outstanding contributions across various categories, highlighting the rich tapestry of talent within the entertainment industry. Among the notable winners was Syrian actor Samer Ismail, who was honored with the award for Favorite Actor in the TV Series category. Saudi actress Al Anoud Abdulhakim also made waves by being named Favorite New Face in the Series category, marking a significant milestone in her burgeoning career.
In the realm of television, the Favorite Egyptian Series award was bestowed upon “Ne’mat El-Afokado,” while the Favorite Gulf Series award went to “Shabab Al-Bomb 12,” a recognition accepted by Faisal Al-Issa. These awards not only celebrate individual talent but also underscore the collaborative efforts that bring these compelling stories to life on screen.
The Joy Awards also took a moment to honor industry legends with Lifetime Achievement Awards. This year, the prestigious accolades were awarded to a remarkable lineup of artists, including Syrian artist Yaser Al-Azmeh, American actor Morgan Freeman, Italian musician Andrea Bocelli, Saudi filmmaker Abdullah Al-Muheisen, Kuwaiti singer Abdullah Al Ruwaished, and renowned international composer Hans Zimmer. Each of these honorees has made significant contributions to their respective fields, leaving an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
In the acting categories, Huda Hussein was celebrated as the Favorite Actress in the Series category, while Hana Al-Zahed took home the award for Favorite Actress in Cinema. The Favorite Actor in Cinema award was presented to Egyptian actor Hesham Maged, further emphasizing the depth of talent present in the Arab film industry.
The Joy Awards also recognized athletic excellence, with Salem Al-Dawsari being named Favorite Athlete and Saudi mixed martial artist Hattan Al-Saif receiving the title of Favorite Female Athlete. This acknowledgment of sports figures highlights the growing intersection between entertainment and athletics in the region.
A poignant moment of the evening was the presentation of the Diamond Entertainment Industry Award to the late Prince Badr bin Abdulmohsen, honoring his poetic contributions to the arts. His son, Prince Khaled bin Badr, accepted the award on his behalf, a touching tribute that resonated deeply with attendees.
For the first time, the Most Popular Song award was shared between Egyptian singers Angham and Tamer Ashour, showcasing the collaborative spirit of the music industry. Additionally, Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad was recognized for his outstanding contributions to fashion, further emphasizing the event’s commitment to celebrating diverse artistic expressions.
Other notable awards included Favorite Song, which went to Majid Al-Mohandis, and the Favorite Influencer awards, which were presented to Ahmad Al-Qahtani and Narin Beauty. Emerging Musical Talent was awarded to Saudi artist Rakan Al Sa’ed, while Hollywood star Matthew McConaughey was honored as the Personality of the Year, bridging the gap between Western and Arab entertainment.
The Joy Awards also took the opportunity to celebrate industry veterans such as Mariam Al-Saleh and Ibrahim Al-Sallal, along with several Gulf icons, recognizing their pioneering roles in shaping the entertainment landscape. This acknowledgment of seasoned professionals serves as an inspiration for emerging talents and reinforces the importance of legacy within the industry.
Overall, the fifth edition of the Joy Awards was a resounding success, reflecting the vibrancy and dynamism of the entertainment scene in the Arab world and beyond. The event not only celebrated individual achievements but also fostered a sense of community among artists, creators, and fans, paving the way for future collaborations and innovations in the industry.
