Under the title “The Greats Never Leave”, Dr. Paul Morcos, Lebanon’s Minister of Information, had the honor of presenting Tele Liban’s Shield to Walid Karbage, the son of the late legendary actor Antoine Karbage, in recognition of his father’s lifelong artistic and cultural contributions to Lebanon and to the national broadcaster, Tele Liban.
This heartfelt tribute was part of a special commemorative episode on Tele Liban, honoring the remarkable career of Antoine Karbage. The episode aired within the program “Album of Authenticity”, hosted by journalist Robert Franjieh and directed by Bassam Khaweri, and is scheduled for broadcast at 9:30 PM next Saturday.
Antoine Karbage was not only a towering figure in Lebanese theater and television but also a cultural icon whose work deeply shaped the identity of Lebanese performing arts. Over the course of more than five decades, he brought to life an array of memorable characters on stage and screen, blending classical drama with the everyday struggles and aspirations of the Lebanese people. His performances in legendary plays and television dramas resonated across generations, marked by emotional depth, eloquence, and an unwavering dedication to his craft.
Karbage was a pillar of the Rahbani Brothers’ theatrical legacy, sharing the stage with Fairouz in many of Lebanon’s most iconic plays. His roles in productions such as “Petra,” “Jibal Al Sawwan,” and “Mays Al Reem” left an indelible mark on Arabic drama. He later became one of the foundational faces of Lebanese television, especially through Tele Liban, where he helped elevate the quality and reach of local productions.
The commemorative episode features a rich collection of testimonies from artists, writers, and producers who worked closely with Karbage or were inspired by his artistry. Contributors include Nahi Lahoud, Philippe Hitti, Atef Al Alam, Takla Chamoun, Talal Al Drajani, Mona Tayeh, and Farid Sabbagh. Additional tributes come in video format from Maestro Abdel Halim Caracalla, writer Antoine Ghaddour, and celebrated performers Assi El Hallani, Georges Khabbaz, and actor Maurice Moussalli—each reflecting on the personal and national significance of Karbage’s legacy.
“Farewell, Antoine Karbage,” concluded Dr. Paul Morcos in his remarks. “Thank you from the heart for the cultural, artistic, and media legacy you have left us. Your presence endures in the spirit of our nation and the soul of our culture.”
