Egypt's favorite satirist Bassem Youssef also happens to be one of the world's biggest overachievers. He started his broadcast with a YouTube show called "B+," which he shot from his laundry room, and went on to host one of Egypt's most widely watched TV programs, "Al Bernameg." Now, with his latest achievement, an American digital series named Democracy Handbook, his humor has literally transcended barriers.
He throws your life into rather harsh perspective, doesn't he? And you wish you were him ... even if just for a day?
1. Like that time when he bravely stood by Awlad el-Shawarea, a satirical Egyptian group that mocked the president in a video
Youssef himself has been a victim of state repression with his show “El Bernameg.” Back in 2013, an Egyptian prosecutor was investigating Youssef on charges of speaking against President Mohammed Morsi on the show. The prosecutor’s office claimed that the show was “circulating false news.” There was also an arrest warrant issued against Youssef for allegedly insulting Islam and Morsi. Shortly after Abdel Fattah Al Sisi took the reins of power in Egypt, the show came to an abrupt halt. "The present climate in Egypt is not suitable for a political satire program," said Youssef.
2. And when he was dubbed the "Jon Stewart of the Middle East"
3. When he made posing next to Chelsea Handler look so casual
4. And making selfies on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert look easy
5. That time he made all "Breaking Bad" fans jealous after posting a selfie with Bryan Cranston
6. And when he met Charlize Theron
7. When he proved to be more than just a recreational athlete
8. Which made meeting athletes all the more exciting
9. And when he met legendary musicians like Roger Waters
10. And of course having a signature move... that nobody could pull off quite as well
