Sohail Ahmed

Sohail Ahmed is a Pakistani actor, comedian and director. He performs in various television serials, movies and comedy stage plays that are principally based in Lahore.

Early life and education

Sohail Ahmed was born on 1 May 1963 in Gujranwala, Punjab. His father, Mian Muhammad Akram, served as a DSP in Gujranwala. The actor comes from a family with literary roots—his maternal grandfather, Faqir Muhammad Faqir, was a writer and philanthropist known as Baba-e-Punjabi. This grandfather authored more than 40 books in Punjabi during his lifetime.

Ahmed has three brothers who pursue different professions. Javed works as a journalist and poet, while Aurangzeb and Junaid are both teachers. His brother Junaid Akram is also a published author of Punjabi literature.

Career

As a stage actor, Sohail Ahmed is recognized for his improvisation skills. He prefers to use spontaneous or impromptu dialogues during comedy shows to engage his audience. Most of the television serials he acts in have aired on PTV. His extensive work in stage dramas includes titles such as Shartiya Mithay, Kaali Chaadar and Feeqa In America.

He has appeared in numerous other stage productions including Kotha, Ek Tera Sanam Khana and Roti Khol Deo. Other notable works include Bara maza aye ga, Double Sawari and Topi Drama. He also performed in Ashiqo Gham Na Karo, Luddi Hai Jamalou and Kuch Na Kaho.

In January 2009, Ahmed began playing the character Azizi on the Dunya News show Hasb-e-Haal. He developed this specific character in collaboration with co-anchor Aftab Iqbal when the program started. Through this role, he provides humorous commentary regarding social issues and current affairs. This character remains his most famous contribution to the wider public.

His long list of stage credits continues with Titliyan, Suway Lal and Deewanay Mastanay. He also appeared in Sawa Sair, Saheli Mere Shohar Ki and Le Ja Sakhiya. Additional productions include Shabash Begum, Khirki Ke Peechay and Soney Ki Chirya.

Ahmed's career spans many more plays such as Haye Oye, Kangley Parauhne and Raja Ab To Aaja. He has also been part of Haasay Wandi De, Aik Jhoot aur Sahi and Wonderful. Other credits include Sohni Lagdi, Ketchup and Rawangi Baraat.

The actor's filmography includes Dum Dama Dum, Love Spot and Baba Cable. He also worked on Kotha, Hazar Janaab and Mouqa Milay kadi kadi. His work extends to Taj Mahal, High Speed and No Tension.

He has appeared in Begum Mujhe Eidi Do, Paon Ka Zewar and Wailay Masroof. Other titles include Kaun Jeeta Kaun Haara, Pholay Badshah and Baba Bori. He also performed in Munday Nu Samjhao, Anokhi Dulhan and Garam Garam.

His stage history is rounded out by Nokar Sahib, Reshman Jawan Ho Gayi and Dil Da Boowa. He also participated in Check Post, Hot Pot and Chabian. Final credits include Yeh Baat Aur Hai, Miss Peeno and Anjanay Log.

Personal life

Ahmed has a son named Hamza Sohail who is also an actor. Hamza Sohail earned an MBA from London before entering the entertainment industry. He made his professional debut in 2021 with the Hum TV production Raqeeb Se.

Awards and recognition

The Government of Pakistan has honored Ahmed with two major awards. He received the Presidential Pride of Performance in 2011. In 2013, he was awarded the Sitara-i-Imtiaz (Star of Excellence) by the President of Pakistan.