Netflix faces backlash in Egypt over 'misrepresenting history' with Black Cleopatra

The controversy over the upcoming Netflix series "Queen Cleopatra" has sparked outrage among some Egyptians who are upset that the main character is portrayed by a black actress. The issue has become so contentious that it has led to legal action and threats of a ban on the streaming service, as well as signatures on Change.org.

The series follows the story of the legendary ruler of Egypt, Cleopatra, who is depicted by British actress Adele James, who is of Jamaican descent. While many have praised the choice of a black actress to play the role, some Egyptians have taken offense to this, arguing that it goes against their cultural and national identity.

Lawyer Mahmud al Semary filed a complaint with the Egyptian Prosecutor's Office to demand "legal action" against Netflix. He argues that "most" of what the series platform broadcasts "contradicts Islamic and social values and principles, especially Egyptian ones," which, according to him, "would erase the Egyptian identity." If successful his actions could lead to a ban on the streaming service in Egypt.

"To preserve the Egyptian national and cultural identity among Egyptians worldwide and be proud of it," the text presented by Al Semary to the Prosecutor's Office states, "and to strengthen the sense of belonging to the homeland, we ask and request that necessary legal action be taken against this platform."

A petition on Change.org calling for the cancellation of the series "Queen Cleopatra" was created, citing the show's alleged "falsification of history" by portraying Cleopatra as a black person despite her being widely regarded as a queen with Greek ancestry. Within hours, the petition gained support from 85,000 signatories.

Former Egyptian Minister of Antiquities, Zahi Hawass, has spoken out against the series for distorting facts from Ancient Egyptian history. "Cleopatra was Greek and looked like the queens and princesses of Macedonia, who were blond, not black," he said. "If we look at the huge figure of Cleopatra and her son by Julius Caesar, Caesarion, on the south wall of the Temple of Hathor in Dendera and on her coins, there is no evidence that she was black."

The series producer, Jada Pinkett Smith, explained at a festival in February that it is part of the "African Queens" project, which aims to "represent black women."