Waseem Abbas is a Pakistani television, stage and film actor, screenwriter and director. He is widely recognized for his extensive work across various media platforms in Pakistan. His career spans decades of contribution to the entertainment industry through both acting and directing roles.
Early life and education
Waseem Abbas was born in Lahore, Punjab on 9 September 1960. He comes from a prominent family within the Pakistani film industry. His father, Inayat Hussain Bhatti, served as a singer, actor and director. His paternal uncle, Kaifi—whose full name was Kifayat Hussain Bhatti—was also a well-known actor and director.
Abbas has an elder brother named Nadeem Abbas Bhatti. This brother worked as an actor before he transitioned into film production and distribution. He also has three sisters. Through one of these sisters, his nephew Aagha Ali performs as an actor and singer.
Career
The path to stardom was not immediate for Abbas. His father initially opposed his decision to enter the entertainment industry. When he first attempted to find work on the radio, he was rejected. He eventually found a footing by working as an assistant director for a stage play where he also performed. This period helped him build the necessary experience for television. He secured his television break in 1978 with the PTV drama Ek Haqeeqat Ek Fasana.
He became a famous artist from the Lahore center of Pakistan Television Corporation. While he appeared in several films, he did not achieve significant success as a film hero. His filmography includes titles such as Badaltey Mousam in 1980 and Manzil in 1981. He also appeared in Zara si baat in 1982 and Tina in 1983. Other film credits include Badalte rishte in 1983, Jatt Majhe da in 1988 and Ishq rog in 1989.
Abbas found his greatest fame through television dramas on PTV and other networks. He is known for roles in serials such as Samundar, Raat and Ashiyana. He also participated in Landa Bazar and Din. One of his most notable achievements is the comedy series Family Front. He served as both an actor and the director for this production. This series featured him alongside his wife, Saba Hameed.
Personal life
Abbas has a complex family history involving two marriages. He has four children from his first marriage. Following a divorce, he married the Pakistani television actress Saba Hameed in 1993. Their son, Ali Abbas, is also an actor. Meesha Shafi is an actor, model and singer who is the daughter of Saba Hameed. Additionally, his son is a model in Pakistan.