Khaberni - The Saudi Media Regulation Authority has suspended a podcast that violated professional guidelines after an episode that stirred controversy featuring actress Rana Jabran.
The General Commission for Media Regulation in Saudi Arabia decided to suspend an unregulated podcast after it breached media work regulations, as the episode was recorded in a manner described as unprofessional, showing the host and the guest sitting on a couch, covered by a blanket.
The Authority clarified that it has revoked the "trusted" licensing of both the show’s host and the guest, after verifying "violations that included breach of public taste and professional standards of media production."
The decision came after airing an episode of the podcast "Mirror" in which the media personality, Mohammad Al-Said, hosted actress Rana Jabran, who recently gained prominence for her role in the series "Ummi" consisting of 90 episodes.
The episode discussed personal and social topics in a candid and spontaneous manner, which sparked a broad wave of interaction and criticism across social media platforms.
Jabran faced severe attacks on platform "X" following her remarks about "a girl’s modesty," with some commentators deeming her contradictory due to her sitting style and boldness in conversation.
The actress responded to the criticisms on "Snapchat," saying: "I saw and just sat there laughing, I am affected but not to that extent," considering that some criticisms aimed for fame at her expense.
Jabran discussed her experience in the series “Ummi” during the episode, pointing out that the character “Saham” the villain, received public sympathy as it represented a painful reality many mothers have endured.
She recalled a poignant scene where she cried bitterly while calling out to her daughter hiding in the closet, describing the scene as having a significant psychological impact on her even after the shooting ended.
She also discussed aspects of her private life, affirming that she is not thinking about getting involved at the moment due to her full dedication to her work, and said: "I’m the last person who might think about entering a relationship right now, I don’t have time and I don’t want to be unfair to anyone," adding that she has reached "a phase of peace with herself."
She also talked about how losing her mother changed her outlook on life, explaining: "After my mother’s death, I decided not to be upset about anything, whoever has experienced loss knows there is no greater pain."
In the end of the interview, Rana described herself as belonging to the old generation in terms of values and principles, preferring the "old school" man who embodies masculinity and gallantry, saying: "I don’t like a girl who lacks modesty, nor a man who has forgotten the meaning of respect."
