Lebanese actor Bassem Maghnieh expressed his astonishment at the attacks and criticisms directed at Lebanese artist Assi El Helani and his son Walid El Helani for posting a photo of themselves receiving the experimental COVID-19 vaccine. He emphasized that the act is positive and beneficial to society, as they are encouraging people to take this step.
While appearing as a guest on the show "Al-Muwajah," he stated that he would be one of those receiving the vaccine, being convinced by the medical opinion supporting this action. Maghnieh defended his fellow artist Melhem Zein, who is seen as one of the most patriotic individuals, calling for an end to blaming him for the spread of COVID-19 in Lebanon. He questioned, "Why should I blame Melhem Zein and not the people who went out to party? Why didn’t the state prevent parties and take this decision?"
The Lebanese artist admitted he was wrong to criticize singer Carole Samaha publicly over a video she posted on TikTok, stating he should have reached out to her privately to express his opinion, especially since he has much affection for her and sees her in a particular way that the audience is used to.
He also expressed his discomfort with the criticism directed at Ragheb Alama by director Nasser Faqih, particularly since Ragheb Alama is one of the stars who raised Lebanon's name high. He remarked: "Recently, I was bothered by a tweet from Nasser Faqih that attacked Lebanese actors, claiming that we need 100 light-years to resemble Arab actors. I took this as a personal insult to me and my fellow actors, which led me to decline to be a guest on Adil Karam's program, despite the affection I have for him and his brother Tarek, because how can I appear on a show directed by someone who does not recognize me as an actor?"
Discussing his career, he said: "I study my steps carefully, and thank God, I have achieved a lot of success in most of the works I've participated in, whether Lebanese or Arabic. An actor may go through difficult times in life, but they should not compromise for material or moral circumstances and should value their history; otherwise, producers will not respect them and will 'hold them by the hand that hurts.'"
He expressed his admiration for Syrian actors, including Qusai Khouli and Basel Khaiat, considering himself to be more Arab than them because they have received opportunities at the Arab level more than he has.
On a different note, Bassem Maghnieh shared his sadness over the loss of his father, ensuring to send a message, "Every day I remember you and recall the moments I was away from you, and it saddens me greatly. I hope you are in a place where you are comfortable, and surely you are, because if you don’t enter paradise, who will?"
He indicated that he was upset with fellow artist Ziad Burji, whom he considers a dear friend, explaining the coldness between them because Burji did not call him to offer condolences for his father’s passing. He noted that Ragheb Alama was the first star to express his condolences to him.
