Hisham Sharbatji

A Syrian television director born in Damascus and is widely regarded as one of the key figures in the rise of modern Syrian drama. He studied theater arts in Cairo before continuing his studies in Germany, and became known for directing comedy and social dramas that dealt with everyday issues in an accessible and relatable way. He played a major role in launching the popular Syrian comedy series *Maraya* with Yasser Al-Azma, directing *Maraya 84*, *Maraya 86*, and *Maraya 88*, before later returning to direct *Maraya 2006*. Over a career spanning several decades, he left a lasting mark on Syrian television and was widely known by the nickname “Sheikh Al-Kar.” He was also the father of director Rasha Sharbatji. Sharbatji died in May 2023 at the age of 75 after a period of illness.