There is one man who is considered the leading voice in ancient Egyptian archeology. One of the best preserved ancient civilisations once came under the control of Dr. Zahi Hawass, former Minister of Antiquities of Egypt. He is a marmite character and wielded his power with an iron fist. Speaking to the New York Post, he recalled a time he was even able to ban Beyoncé from the Great Pyramids.
You would think that someone as renowned as Beyoncé would be allowed to go where she likes. But, something she did, along with her entourage, rubbed the gatekeeper of the pyramids up the wrong way.
Hawass has been described by Joe Rogan as a “close-minded fellow who’s been in charge of gatekeeping all the knowledge.” When he appeared on his podcast, Rogan stated that it was one of the worst he had ever done. If he’s able to upset even mild-mannered Joe, he must be abrasive.
But there is no denying the contributions he has made to the study of ancient Egyptian history. His long list of accolades includes the repatriation of stolen artifacts and some fascinating studies into the construction of the Great Pyramids.
Banned Beyoncé
If you’re as rich as Beyoncé, it’s possible to get a tour of the Great Pyramids with the big man himself. There is no better guide than the former minister of antiquities. But, he’s got a few rules that need to be followed, which clashed with Beys.
“Beyoncé came in 2008, and it did not end well. She was a very nice lady, but she had a very bad bodyguard. I have a camera lady who follows me during these tours, to record everything — and Beyonce’s bodyguard … snatched the camera right out of her hand,” he explained.
“I wouldn’t stand for it!”. So, “I told her and her bodyguard to get out, and banned her from the pyramids,” he continued. And, just like that, Beyoncé was banned from the Great Pyramids. Although what gives this old guy permission to ban anyone from a 6,000-year-old relic is anyone’s guess.
But, she’s seen them now. She won’t need to go again.