Egypt's most famous comic actor, Adel Imam, has been sentenced to three months in jail for insulting Islam in roles he played on stage and screen.
Imam has frequently poked fun at authorities and politicians of all colors during a 40-year career.
The sentence handed down by a Cairo court on February 2 came weeks after Islamists claimed most seats in Egypt's parliamentary election.
Imam was sued by a lawyer, Asran Mansour, who reportedly has Islamist ties.
The actor who was not present in court was also fined 1,000 Egyptian pounds ($170).
He has one month to appeal.
Court cases against directors, actors, artists, and intellectuals for failing to respect religious authority are common in Egypt.
But correspondents say the case against Imam is likely to draw attention due to his high profile and the timing of the verdict.
Compiled from agency reports
Imam has frequently poked fun at authorities and politicians of all colors during a 40-year career.
The sentence handed down by a Cairo court on February 2 came weeks after Islamists claimed most seats in Egypt's parliamentary election.
Imam was sued by a lawyer, Asran Mansour, who reportedly has Islamist ties.
The actor who was not present in court was also fined 1,000 Egyptian pounds ($170).
He has one month to appeal.
Court cases against directors, actors, artists, and intellectuals for failing to respect religious authority are common in Egypt.
But correspondents say the case against Imam is likely to draw attention due to his high profile and the timing of the verdict.
Compiled from agency reports
