Egyptian veteran talk show host Amr Adib said he is taking a temporary break from media after his contract with long-time employer Orbit ended two weeks ago.
Adib, who has one of the biggest audiences in the Middle East, has been hosting his show Al-Kahira Al-Youm (Cairo Today) for almost two decades on the subscription-only TV channel
In comments to privately-owned Al-Masry Al-Youm Wednesday, Adib noted that his contract with the Dubai-based network ended on 30 June and he does not intend to renew it.
Adib originally planned not to renew his contract last year, but continued to work with the channel for an extra year upon their request.
The star host's contract concluded without any problems with his employer, which he said significantly contributed to his media prominence over the years.
"I have obtained [all of my] money...and we [he and the channel] enjoy appreciation, respect and love," he said.
Adib is currently undecided about how long his respite will last.
"I have no idea until this moment when I will [return] to media again. I need a rest period," Adib said, adding that his move comes in a time when the Egyptian media scene is "calm".
Adib was one of the pioneers of talk shows in Egypt. He is known for his strident take on controversial issues and a folksy style that some believe has contributed to his popularity.
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