By: Yomna Walid
Some TV series may come to an end, but certain characters remain with audiences long after the final episode. That was the case with actress Reem Elmasry, whose portrayal of Nahed in "Underage" left a lasting impression. The series explores challenges facing Generation Z, including one of its most sensitive issues: forced marriage at a young age.
Nahed is a teenage girl whose parents marry her off to a wealthy man she has never met, believing financial security will guarantee her happiness. Instead, after moving to Cairo, she finds herself trapped in an abusive marriage while trying to hide a secret life from those around her.
Throughout her career, Reem has appeared in several notable productions, including "Valentino" alongside Adel Emam, "Abu Al-Aroussa 2," "Sayd El Akarib," and the comedy film "Al Safa Thanaweya Banat."
NileFM spoke with Reem Elmasry about preparing for one of her most emotionally demanding roles, the challenges of bringing Nahed to life, and the audience response that touched her the most.
What made you fall in love with acting and decide to pursue it as a career?
I've loved acting since I was very young. I used to perform in theatre productions at cultural centres and arts institutions, so that passion was planted in me from childhood. My mother played a huge role in that because she loved theatre, and I grew up sharing the same passion for acting.
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You started your career in theatre. What's the most important lesson you learned from that experience?
Theatre has taught me so much, both artistically and personally, and I'm still learning every day. I think one of the greatest lessons theatre gives any actor is how to overcome stage fright and truly connect with a live audience. That's something incredibly valuable for every performer.
What do you consider the turning point in your acting career?
Honestly, every project I work on changes me in some way or helps me take another step forward. But "Underage" was definitely a life-changing experience. It made a huge difference, both in how audiences saw me and in how I understood and appreciated acting. Thankfully, the series was very well received.
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You've worked in theatre, film and television. Which medium best represents you as an actress?
Every medium has its own unique joy. Whether it's theatre, cinema or television, as long as I'm acting, I'm expressing who I am as both an actress and a person. Even if I'm acting in front of the mirror in my room, I'm still doing what I love.
Nahed in Underage is a very layered character. How did you prepare for the role?
It all started with many discussions with director Yahya Ismail and the series' writers, Mina Bebawi and Mohamed Elsoury. I kept asking about Nahed's background, motivations, circumstances and what her life was like before the events of the series. Together, we established clear boundaries for her personality and explored every aspect of her life so I could help audiences understand that although she is still very young, she is carrying burdens that belong to someone much older.
Did you consult any specialists or references while preparing for the role?
No. I relied on the vision of the director, the writers and my own personal interpretation of the character.
How did you portray the contrast between Nahed's personality at home and at school?
First of all, it was God's blessing, along with a great deal of preparation and discussion. I've seen real-life examples of young girls carrying responsibilities far beyond their age, regardless of their circumstances. I also wanted Nahed to behave differently with each character in the series because she is someone constantly trying to fit in and adapt to the world around her. That can sometimes make her appear as if she is changing her personality or being misunderstood.
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Which scene was the most difficult for you to film, and why?
Probably the scene where Nody's husband beats Nahed and throws her out of the house. It was emotionally very difficult.
What was it like working with the "Underage" cast and crew?
It was honestly one of the happiest and most enjoyable experiences I've ever had. The atmosphere was filled with love, support and so many wonderful memories.
Did playing Nahed stay with you after filming ended?
Absolutely. She affected me deeply. I loved her, sympathised with everything she went through and felt that she became a part of me.
Among the girls in the series, which character is closest to you in real life, and why?
Honestly, I love them all. They're all close to my heart. They are some of the sweetest and most talented girls I've ever met, and I wish them nothing but the very best.
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What audience reaction touched you the most after Underage aired?
I'm grateful for every reaction and every message I received. But what moved me the most was hearing from parents who said the series made them genuinely worry about their children and rethink how they understand and communicate with them. Knowing that the series was able to make even a small difference in the way parents see and treat their children made me incredibly happy.
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If Underage returns for another season, what issue would you like it to explore?
I'd love for it to continue addressing meaningful human stories that truly connect with this generation and reflect what they are experiencing in their lives.
Photo Credit: Reem Elmasry's official page&nbsp;
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