Syrian artist Basil Khayyat revealed new details about his personal and professional life during his appearance as a guest on the “My Story” podcast with journalist Muhammad Qais.
He spoke candidly about the difficult period he went through after leaving Syria, as well as the role his wife, Nahed Zeidan, played in supporting him, and his stance on retirement and artistic competition.
Excerpts from Basil Khayyat’s interview went viral on social media after the public shared a series of his statements in which he addressed sensitive aspects of his life for the first time.
Basel Khayyat Talks About His Financial Crisis After Leaving Syria
During the interview, Basil Khayyat reflected on the early days of his life outside Syria, confirming that it was one of the most difficult periods for him, both financially and professionally.
He explained that at one point he found himself in a very difficult financial situation and was unable to work,
which led his wife, Nahed Zeidan, to help shoulder the family’s financial responsibilities.
Khayyat said, “There was a period in my life when I was completely unable to work, and financially I was practically at zero. Nahed went to work and took on the responsibility of supporting the household.”
His remarks highlighted the magnitude of the challenges that accompanied his transition to a new life outside Syria.
The difficulties were not limited to a change of residence; they also included the search for stability and work, as well as reorganizing family life.
Basel Khayyat Addresses Accusations of Treason
Basel Khayyat also touched on the period during which he faced accusations of treason in Syria.
He said that at the time, he felt completely helpless and did not know how to deal with what was happening around him.
He explained that his decision at that stage was to leave the country with his wife and son, Shams.
The Syrian artist also recalled an incident in which milk was thrown at him while filming one of his artistic projects.
He noted that at the time, he tried to focus on his work and ignore the events around him, but he was unable to detach himself from the reality Syria was facing.
He added that what was happening around him left him with a strong sense of helplessness, especially given the large number of casualties.
Will Basil Khayyat Retire from Acting Early?
One of Basil Khayyat’s most notable remarks during the interview was his discussion of the possibility of retiring at a young age.
He confirmed that he is considering stepping away from the spotlight while the public still wants to see his work.
He said, “I intend to retire early, on the premise that I’ll step out of the spotlight while people still want me.”
He clarified that he doesn’t mean to question the audience’s loyalty, but he wants to preserve the image by which people have come to know him and remain an influential and respected artist.
He continued, “I want to clear my head for something else. I’m fed up, and I have no desire for conflicts or problems.”
He noted that he prefers to step back when he feels he has achieved what he wants artistically, rather than continuing just to stay in the spotlight.
Basel Khayyat Talks About Competition and His Weaknesses
Khayyat also discussed his view of competition in the art world, affirming his confidence in his abilities and his potential.
He said, “I’m not afraid of anyone. I know what I’m capable of, and after all this work, I’ve only used a small fraction of my potential.”
He emphasized that he has worked on developing himself both mentally and physically over the past few years. At the same time,
he acknowledged having weaknesses, but stressed that he knows how to deal with them and find suitable alternatives.
Nahed Zeidan and Her Role in Basil Khayyat’s Life
Basel Khayyat’s remarks about his wife, Nahed Zeidan, once again highlighted the role she has played in his life, especially during the difficult times the family has gone through.
The Syrian actor has previously described his wife as the “guiding compass” in his life, noting that he consults her on many decisions and trusts her judgment.
His recent remarks reflect the extent of the support she provided him during the period when he faced financial and professional difficulties, before he regained his footing and resumed his presence in Arab television dramas.
