Amel Bent: Tearful memories and new roots in Algeria

Amel Bent: Tearful memories and new roots in Algeria

Amel Bent provided in-depth insights into her emotional year 2024 in the episode of “Un dimanche à la campagne” on October 26, 2025. The 39-year-old singer spoke about the painful loss of her grandmother, which plunged her into a deep crisis. Amel noted that grieving her grandmother, who passed away in November 2023, was not only challenging, but also an opportunity for self-reflection. “I retreated and thought a lot about my life,” she revealed, and realized it was time to focus on myself and slow down.

The relationship with her grandmother, who was an important caregiver for Amel Bent, was particularly moving. This connection influenced their perspective on their own heritage and identity. “It was my second home and the source of my memories,” explained the singer. Her grandmother's desire to be buried in Oran, Algeria touched Amel to the core and reinforced her need to connect with her roots. After the funeral, she embarked on an emotional journey in which she applied for Algerian citizenship to honor her grandmother's memory, like Gala reported.

On the way to identity

Amel Bent’s decision to accept Algerian citizenship was not just a bureaucratic move. She became particularly emotional when she cried at the consulate and asked to begin the necessary formalities. “I didn’t want to have to apply for a visa every time just to visit my grandmother’s grave,” she confessed. She eventually received citizenship and felt relieved because the ability to travel regularly to visit her grandmother helped her deal with her grief.

These experiences illustrate how the loss of a loved one can cause grief that is universal and has different cultural manifestations. According to Mourning Research, grief is viewed as a natural reaction, the expression of which is influenced by cultural backgrounds. Amel found not only pain in her grief, but also new strength and insight. She sees herself as a woman reawakened from grief and ready to celebrate life.

A path of change

This year highlighted the complex interplay of grief and identity for Amel Bent. Despite the emotional pain of losing her grandmother, she recognized the need to rediscover herself and connect with her roots. “I feel more vulnerable than ever but also encouraged to celebrate life,” she concluded. In these moments of grief, Amel Bent found a new way to face her past while embracing the future.