Vinay Kumar
Saudi actress, broadcaster, and model Rana Jabran, 38, has become the center of a media storm after her appearance on the “Mirror” podcast led to the show’s suspension and the removal of the episode from platforms. Her frank discussion of personal and social topics quickly went viral, sparking both engagement and criticism across the Gulf region.
The “Mirror” podcast episode that sparked controversy
Rana Jabran appeared on the “Mirror” podcast, hosted by Mohammed Al-Saeed, where she addressed personal experiences, societal topics, and professional insights with an unprecedented level of candor. The episode immediately drew widespread attention, becoming a social media sensation in Saudi Arabia and across the Gulf. However, the release triggered swift action from the Saudi Media Regulatory Authority, which suspended the podcast for violating professional standards. According to Al-Ain News, the episode was described as “unprofessional”, with the host and guest appearing on a couch covered by a blanket—an arrangement deemed inconsistent with public taste and media guidelines. The authority also revoked the “Mawthuq” licenses of both Jabran and the host, confirming that the episode breached professional broadcasting standards. While the official statement did not explicitly name the show, circulating images confirmed that the discussion was part of the “Mirror” podcast. The episode sparked particular debate on social media, especially regarding Jabran’s comments on girls’ modesty. Critics on the X platform accused her of contradicting herself due to her speaking style and body language. Responding via Snapchat, she said: “I saw it and started laughing. I get affected, but not to this extent,” suggesting some backlash was motivated by those seeking attention at her expense.
What Rana Jabran shared during the interview
During the episode, Jabran discussed both her personal life and professional experiences in depth:
- Reflecting on her role as
Suham in the 90-episode series My Mother, she noted that the character resonated with audiences because it reflected painful realities experienced by many mothers. She described a scene where she cried bitterly calling out to her daughter hiding in a closet, which left a lasting psychological impact even after filming ended. - On relationships, she stated: “I am the last person who would think about getting into a relationship now. I don’t have time, and I don’t want to wrong anyone,” highlighting her focus on personal growth and professional commitments.
- Discussing loss, she reflected on her mother’s passing: “After my mother passed away, I decided not to be upset about anything. Anyone who has experienced loss knows that there is no greater pain.”
- She also spoke about her values and principles, describing herself as part of the older generation in outlook, preferring traditional masculinity and chivalry in men, and emphasizing the importance of respect and modesty in both genders.
Who is Rana Jabran?
Rana Jabran Al Jabran, born on February 7, 1987, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, is a 38-year-old actress, broadcaster, and model. She has become one of Saudi Arabia’s most prominent media figures, known for her ability to engage audiences naturally while selecting meaningful roles that carry a social message. Her notable artistic works include:
- Love Brought Us Together (2022)
- Legitimate Revenge (2022)
- Forty in Twenty (2022)
- Tash Ma Tash (2023)
- Complex 75 (2024)
- My Mother (2025)
- Hojan (2025)
Jabran has repeatedly emphasized that art is a responsibility and a message first, fame second, reflecting her careful approach to role selection. Her performances, particularly in My Mother, have been praised for psychological depth and the ability to evoke empathy, making her a respected and widely followed figure in Saudi media.
Ongoing engagement and impact
Despite the controversy surrounding the podcast, Rana Jabran continues to maintain strong engagement with fans on social media, with many expressing support and interest in her perspective. The suspension of the “Mirror” podcast raises questions about the future of similar platforms and underscores the delicate balance between artistic expression and regulatory compliance in Saudi Arabia.
