8 Most Controversial TV Hosts in Pakistan

News Desk

Islamabad: Pakistani television boasts a vibrant history of engaging hosts who have captivated audiences with their charm and interviewing skills. However, some hosts have found themselves at the center of controversies, often due to their on-air behavior or the content of their programs. Here are a few notable examples: 

1. Nadia Khan: Known as the “queen of morning shows,” Nadia Khan’s straightforward approach has both entertained viewers and sparked discussions. Her on-air confrontation with actress Meera is particularly memorable, and more recently, she faced backlash for prematurely announcing actress Hiba Bukhari’s pregnancy on her review show, defending her actions despite public criticism.

2. Nida Yasir:As the host of Pakistan’s longest-running morning show, Nida Yasir has been involved in various controversies.

From guests like Shabbir Jan walking off the set to becoming the target of internet memes for her lack of knowledge on certain subjects, her show has had its fair share of contentious moments. One particularly troubling episode involved an interview with the parents of a child rape victim, which drew widespread condemnation for its insensitivity. 

3. Aamir Liaquat Hussain: Aamir Liaquat’s career has been overshadowed by numerous controversies. In 2008, his TV special “Khatmay Nabuwat” featured guest scholars who claimed that anyone associated with the Ahmadi community deserved to be killed for blasphemy, resulting in the murders of two prominent Ahmadi individuals shortly thereafter. In 2011, leaked behind-the-scenes footage revealed him using profanity and making light of sensitive issues.

His show “Aisay Nahi Chalay Ga” was banned in 2017 by the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) for hate speech, although the ban was later lifted. Additionally, he faced criticism for giving away abandoned infants to prospective parents on live television without ensuring proper confidentiality, raising significant ethical concerns.

4. Shahid Masood:A well-known journalist, has encountered legal issues due to his allegations made on air. In 2016, PEMRA imposed a 45-day ban on his show after he accused the Chief Justice of the Sindh High Court of bribery without any evidence. In 2018, he faced a three-month suspension for making baseless claims regarding the Zainab murder case, which were later disproven by a Joint Investigation Team.

5. Sohail Warraich:Recognized for his distinctive interviewing style on “Aik Din Geo Ke Saath,” where he often explores the personal lives of celebrities, sparking discussions about privacy. His visits to guests’ homes, including private spaces like bedrooms and bathrooms, have received both praise for their openness and criticism for being intrusive.

6. Mathira:Her late-night shows have often stirred controversy due to their daring content. Language misunderstandings have led to unintended adult humor, making her a divisive figure in Pakistani media. Despite the controversies, she remains a significant presence in the industry.

7. Ahsan Khan:Primarily known as an actor, has also made a name for himself as the host of “Time Out with Ahsan Khan,” where he has facilitated several on-air revelations and disputes among guests. His knack for making guests feel at ease often leads to unexpected disclosures, enhancing the show’s appeal and sometimes sparking controversies.

8. Fiza Ali:She transitioned from acting to hosting, has faced criticism for discussing adult themes during morning shows, which many viewers found inappropriate for that time of day. While some appreciate her frankness, it has frequently resulted in public backlash and debates over television content standards.

These examples illustrate the challenging balance that Pakistani TV hosts must strike between creating engaging content and adhering to ethical broadcasting standards. While controversies can enhance viewership, they also carry the weight of responsible journalism.