“Acting Gave Me a Purpose and a Career I Truly Love”

From a young boy appearing on PTV screens to becoming one of the most recognisable faces in Pakistani entertainment, Sohail Sameer’s journey reflects decades of evolution, resilience and artistic growth. Beginning his career in modeling, Sameer initially stepped into the world of cameras through fashion and photography before discovering his true passion for storytelling through acting. Having been spotted by the incredible Savera Nadeem, Sameer has successfully transitioned between television, films and modeling, building a career defined not only by versatility but also by a deep understanding of human emotions.

Best known for his memorable portrayal of Nazakat Ali in the hit drama Suno Chanda and having won the award for Best Soap Actor (Male) for his work in Sartaj Mera Tu Raj Mera, Sameer has earned appreciation and love from the masses for bringing warmth, humour and authenticity to his characters. While comedy remains one of his most celebrated strengths, the actor believes that every performance begins with honesty – understanding a character’s motivations rather than simply trying to entertain.

Beyond his professional achievements, Sameer has also been open about the personal experiences that have shaped him, including the challenges his family faced and the role faith and gratitude played during difficult times. After more than two decades in the industry, he continues to view acting as a journey of constant learning, seeking roles that challenge him emotionally and allow him to explore new dimensions as an artist.

In a candid conversation with MAG, Sohail Sameer reflects on his early days, the changing landscape of Pakistani entertainment, the pressures of fame in the social media era, and the lessons that have defined, both his career and personal life. Excerpts:

SK: You began your journey as a child artist on PTV before entering modelling and later acting. Looking back, what memories stand out from your earliest days in front of the camera, and when did you realise this was the path you wanted to pursue?
SS: Yes, I entered the industry at a young age through modelling, but to be honest, I never saw myself pursuing it seriously as a long-term career. It was more of an opportunity that introduced me to the world of cameras, creativity, and media. Those early experiences helped me understand the professional side of the industry and gave me valuable exposure, but I was always more interested in performance and storytelling.

As I spent more time on sets and interacted with actors and directors, I realised that acting offered [me] something much deeper. It allowed me to explore human emotions, tell meaningful stories, and connect with audiences in a way that modelling never could. That’s when I knew acting was the path I wanted to follow. Looking back, modelling opened the door, but acting gave me a purpose and a career that I genuinely love.

SK: Having worked as a model, and in television and films, how has your approach to performance evolved over the years? Do you believe your modelling background helped you become a more confident actor?
SS: Absolutely. Modelling taught me discipline, presentation, and professionalism. It also helped me understand how to communicate emotions without words. Fashion and photography are all about attention to detail, confidence, and consistency. Those lessons later became valuable assets in my acting career.

I do admit that while modelling helped me become comfortable in front of the camera, acting actually taught me how to connect emotionally with an audience. Over the years, my focus has shifted from simply performing to understanding the psychology and motivations of a character. Experience has taught me that authenticity is more important than perfection.

SK: Your role as Nazakat Ali in Suno Chanda became one of your most recognised performances. What was it about that character that connected so strongly with audiences?
SS: Nazakat Ali was relatable, genuine, and full of warmth. He represented a type of person many people have encountered in their own families or communities. The character’s innocence, humour, and sincerity made him memorable. I believe audiences connected with him because he felt real rather than exaggerated.

SK: Comedy is often considered one of the most challenging genres for actors. How do you prepare for a lighthearted character, and what do you think makes a comic performance memorable?
SS: Comedy requires timing, observation, and honesty. I never approach comedy with the intention of being funny; instead, I focus on being truthful to the character. The humour emerges naturally from the situation. Memorable comedy comes from authenticity because audiences can instantly recognise when a performance feels forced.

SK: After spending many years in the entertainment industry, how do you think Pakistani television has changed – both in terms of storytelling and the opportunities available for actors today?
SS: The industry has become more diverse and competitive. We now see a broader range of stories and characters, and digital platforms have expanded opportunities for artists. At the same time, audiences have become more discerning. This evolution challenges actors to continuously improve and adapt to changing expectations.

SK: You have often spoken about the importance of family and faith in your life. You once shared the emotional journey of your daughter’s childhood illness and how your faith helped you navigate during that difficult time. How did that experience change your perspective on life and gratitude?
SS: That period was one of the most difficult chapters of my life, but it was also one of the most transformative. It reminded me that health, family, and faith are blessings we often take for granted. The experience deepened my gratitude and strengthened my belief that challenges often carry lessons that shape us into stronger and more compassionate individuals.

SK: Social media today often turns celebrities’ personal opinions into public discussions. Your comments about joint family systems and relationships have sparked conversations online. How important do you think it is to have balanced discussions about family values, independence, and mutual respect?
SS: Every family structure has its strengths and challenges. The key is balance, understanding, and respect. Healthy relationships are built on communication rather than rigid expectations. Social media can be a useful platform for dialogue, provided discussions remain respectful and open-minded.

SK: Do you think celebrities today face more pressure because of social media than previous generations did?
SS: Without a doubt! Earlier, artists were judged primarily on their work. Today, every statement, photograph, or opinion can become a public debate within minutes. While social media creates opportunities to connect with audiences, it also demands greater responsibility and resilience.

SK: What is one misconception people have about actors and their personal lives?
SS: Many people assume that actors live glamourous and care-free lives. In reality, like everyone else, we face personal struggles, have responsibilities, and go through challenges. The only difference is that our profession places us under public scrutiny. This is why most of us are extra careful to keep up appearances because we do not want every personal detail of our life to become a subject of public discussion.

SK: Do you believe fame changes people, or does it simply reveal who they already are?
SS: I believe fame amplifies a person’s existing qualities. It provides access, influence, and visibility, which often reveal an individual’s true character. Fame itself is neither good nor bad; it simply magnifies what is already there.

SK: After two decades in the industry, what kind of roles or challenges are you looking forward to exploring in the future?
SS: I am always interested in roles that challenge me emotionally and intellectually. I would love to explore complex, layered characters that push me beyond familiar territory. As an artist, growth comes from stepping into the unknown and continuously reinventing yourself.