Joe Rogan Podcast Guest Responds to Criticism
- Egyptologist Zahi Hawass, often called "Egypt's Indiana Jones," appeared on Joe Rogan's podcast to discuss ancient Egypt and the construction of the pyramids.
- hawass, a former antiquities minister, aimed to counter theories suggesting the Great Pyramids of Giza were not built by ancient Egyptians.
- However, the podcast drew criticism, including from Egyptians, regarding hawass's tone and the content discussed.
Egyptologist Zahi Hawass, a recent guest on the Joe Rogan podcast, is defending Egyptian heritage and responding to a wave of criticism following the controversial episode. Hawass, known as “Egypt’s Indiana Jones,” addressed claims that ancient Egyptians were incapable of building the Great Pyramids, but his statements and the podcast itself sparked debate. Discussions included misconceptions about papyrus and historical narratives, leading to public commentary and skepticism surrounding Hawass’s perspective.The episode aimed to counter certain theories, but the resulting exchange has fueled further criticism. News Directory 3 reports on the details of the podcast and the fallout.What will Hawass say next to counter the criticism?
Zahi Hawass Defends Egyptian Heritage on Joe Rogan Podcast
Egyptologist Zahi Hawass, often called “Egypt’s Indiana Jones,” appeared on Joe Rogan’s podcast to discuss ancient Egypt and the construction of the pyramids. The episode, which aired in May, has garnered over a million views, but also sparked controversy.

hawass, a former antiquities minister, aimed to counter theories suggesting the Great Pyramids of Giza were not built by ancient Egyptians. Speaking from the U.S., where he is on a lecture tour, Hawass emphasized his commitment to defending Egyptian civilization.
However, the podcast drew criticism, including from Egyptians, regarding hawass’s tone and the content discussed. The conversation began with Hawass dismissing claims that Egyptians couldn’t have moved the stones for the pyramids, referencing a discussion with the late radio host Art Bell.
Rogan questioned Hawass about how the stones were moved 5,000 years ago and at one point, mistakenly asked if papyrus was made of animal skin. A week later, Rogan revisited the topic, expressing skepticism and describing Hawass as a “closed-minded fellow” gatekeeping knowledge.
Hawass maintains that Rogan has an agenda to deny Egyptian involvement in building the pyramids.He stated that he provided evidence to counter this narrative, but Rogan seemingly hadn’t read up on the subject.
Egyptian comedian Bassem Youssef commented on the exchange, noting that nonetheless of opinions on Hawass’s career, he possessed more knowledge of history than rogan.

Despite the criticism,Hawass remains steadfast in his position. he dismissed recent research suggesting massive shafts beneath the Khafre pyramid, stating he is accustomed to criticism throughout his 50 years working in archaeology.
