Egyptian pop superstar Amr Diab to appear in new Netflix series

Egyptian superstar Amr Diab will be starring in a new Arabic original Netflix series, the streaming giant announced, returning him to screens around the world after a 27-year absence.

"Amr Diab, the Middle East's best selling artist, winner of 7 World Music Awards and 6 African Music Awards, returns to drama after an absence of 27 years with Netflix," the network tweeted on Wednesday.

Netflix did not provide any additional details about the venture and fans will be eagerly awaiting more information on the drama's release date and plot.

"I am thrilled to work with Netflix on this new project," Diab told his 11.8 million Instagram followers.

"I have always believed that art is a global language, and we have been able to build bridges of connections and love with diverse cultures through music," he said.

"And, now with this new project with Netflix, I am excited that we will be reaching more than 193 million members in more than 190 countries around the world where they will be able to watch new content made in Egypt and enjoyed by the world," he added in the statement translated by Variety. 

Diab last graced screens in 1993 when he starred in the film Deahk We La'ab (Laughter and Fun) alongside late Egyptian movie star Omar Sharif.

Diab chose to focus on his singing career and in 2014 he became the first Arabic performer to hold the number 1 spot on the Billboard World Albums Charts with his album "Shoft El Ayam".