Singer, actor and producer Ali Zafar has returned to Pakistani television as a judge on Pakistan’s Got Talent, the local edition of the world’s most successful entertainment format, which airs in over 70 countries including versions such as America’s Got Talent and Britain’s Got Talent.
The role marks Zafar’s first sustained television appearance in several years. Across a career spanning music, film and live performance in Pakistan and India, he has built a reputation for range and for speaking plainly, both of which he brings to the panel in the form of honest, constructive feedback for the contestants.
“What has surprised me most is the sheer level of talent walking onto that stage,” said Zafar.
“There are people from small towns and cities across Pakistan who have never had a platform like this. Watching them get one is genuinely moving. My job is simply to be honest with them and to make sure they leave better than they arrived.”
Pakistan’s Got Talent brings the franchise’s open-call format home, inviting singers, dancers, musicians, comedians and variety performers of all ages to audition. The show airs every Saturday and Sunday at 10pm.