Stuff We Love
Lebanese TV Shows That Defined Each Decade: From the 70s to Today
For decades, Lebanese series have been a staple of our daily lives. Each era introduced new stories, characters who felt like family, and moments we’ll never forget. As society evolved, so did the way these shows were written and produced.
Let’s take a walk down memory lane and celebrate the shows that shaped Lebanese television.
The 1970s: A Time of Iconic Beginnings
Alo Hayete
No one can forget this legendary series, especially the iconic line: “Alo hayete.” Starring the unforgettable romantic duo Hind Abi Lamaa and Abdel Majid Majzoub, the show became the talk of the town and a symbol of love on screen.
Abou Salim Al Tabel and His Band
A comedy that delighted both kids and adults alike. Every episode was a chance to escape life’s troubles, even if just for a little while. Led by Salah Tizani as Abou Salim, the show gave us memorable catchphrases like “Siyaret el Jamiiyeh” and “Kel Yom Hkeye,” forever ingrained in Lebanese culture.
Aazef El Leil
A short but unforgettable romantic series, just 13 episodes long. It stood out for its use of classical Arabic dialogue and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack composed by Elias Rahbani. Starring Hind and Abdel Majid once again, it remains a cherished gem.
El Meshwar El Taweel
A heartwarming drama starring the beloved Chouchou (Hassan Alaa El Din). The story of Warda and her love for Sharif, a simple café worker, unfolded against the backdrop of an unforgettable Beirut.
The 1980s: The Golden Age of Lebanese Comedy
Al Moalema Wal Ostaaz
A love story between a teacher and her colleague that was more than just romance, it offered a deep reflection on Lebanese society and the struggles within the education system. Not to mention it had some of the most hilarious acting we’ve seen to date!
El Denye Heik
Written by the brilliant Mohamed Chamel, this comedy introduced us to characters we couldn’t help but love—Zomorod, Aziz, and Belbol el Maziikati, each bringing their own unique charm and humor to the screen.
Arbaa Mjaneen w Bass
An absolute comedy classic starring Elie Snaifer and Philippe Akiki. Every episode had a mystery to solve, yet somehow, it always ended in laughter.
The 1990s: The Golden Age of Lebanese Drama
Ekteble Ossa
A defining show of the ’90s. Whenever someone mentions Lebanese TV from that era, Ekteble Ossa is the first name that comes to mind. Its blend of fantasy and reality, with touching stories that resonated with every Lebanese household, made it unforgettable.
Secretairet Baba
A dramatic yet comedic take on a husband’s affair with his secretary, highlighting both the absurdity and heartbreak of family drama.
Talbeen El Orb
One of the first Lebanese series to deliver over 100 episodes, Talbeen El Orb shared love stories that stayed with audiences for years. Even today, its soundtrack sparks nostalgia.
El Aassefa Tahob Marratein
A show that shocked and mesmerized viewers. The story revolved around a powerful businessman adored by many women, but his dramatic and unexpected fate kept audiences hooked.
The 2000s: The Start of a New Era
Min Ahla Byout Ras Beirut
This series became famous not just for its storyline but also for its theme song, Mahzouz Ktir. It beautifully captured the struggles of Lebanese youth navigating school, university, and family expectations.
See also: Min Ahla Byout Ras Beirut Cast: Where Are They Now?
Marte w Ana
From the very first episode, audiences fell in love with Fadi and Carine. Their portrayal of a newlywed couple was comedic, relatable, and heartwarming.
Khataaya Saghira
A gripping drama that kept viewers on edge as Sari embarked on a relentless search for the truth. Every twist and turn heightened the suspense.
Sajina
Samar, trapped in an unhappy marriage, finds hope and freedom when a kind lawyer helps her rediscover love. Her story was both heartbreaking and inspiring.
Familia
A heartfelt series blending humor and emotion, exploring family bonds, love, and the struggles of university students finding their place in the world.
The 2010s: Before the Rise of Streaming Platforms
Helwe W Kezzebe
Dalida is beautiful, but she’s also a compulsive liar. She’s hopelessly in love with the famous Ramzi Dib long before she even meets him. But Ramzi himself is just as deceitful, charming multiple women at once. When Dalida claims she’s insanely rich (despite her modest background), things spiral into chaos.
Wa Ashraqat Al Shams
A series that captivated Lebanon, starring Amiee Sayyah and Youssef El Khal. This historical drama wove together romance and politics, depicting the struggles between Arabs and the Ottoman Empire. Its powerful storyline and memorable performances left a lasting impact.
El Hob El Haqiqe
Inspired by an old Mexican telenovela once aired on LBC, this series followed Noura, a soft-spoken, romantic girl from an aristocratic family who falls for someone outside her social class. Determined to keep them apart, her family arranges her marriage to Rakan, a respectable man from her world, who then tries to win her heart.
Albi Daq
This series marked Carine’s grand entrance into Lebanese drama. Albi Daq captured hearts with the love story of Tina and Sami, a perfect blend of comedy and romance that made audiences laugh, cry, and fall in love alongside them.
Through the years, Lebanese television has gifted us unforgettable stories. Some of these shows may no longer be on our screens, but they will always live in our memories.
