Remembering the late ‘King of Comedy’ Umer Shareef on his birth anniversary

WEB DESK: Today marks the birth anniversary of Pakistan’s famous comedian Umer Shareef, widely known as the ‘King of Comedy’.

Born on April 19, 1960, in Karachi, Shareef left an indelible mark on the entertainment industry in Pakistan from a young age.

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Shareef rose to prominence in the 1980s when his comedic talent shone through in iconic pieces like “Bakra Qistoon Pe”. His stage shows captivated audiences, showcasing his prowess in stand-up comedy and his ability to tackle various comedic genres, including satire, character, and even improvisational comedy.

Recognising the growing demand for pre-recorded entertainment, Shareef would record his comedy shows, making them accessible to a wider audience and earning him nationwide recognition.

Among his notable works are “Akbar e Azam in Pakistan”, “Mano Meri Baat”, and “Eidy Chupa ke Rakhna”. He also graced the small screen with shows like “The Shareef Show”, interviewing prominent personalities of Pakistan.

Beyond comedy, he ventured into acting, earning acclaim for roles in select movies like “Mr 420”, which garnered multiple awards including the a best movie award.

In recognition of his contribution to Pakistan, the government honoured Shareef with the prestigious “Tamgha-e-Imtiaz”.

Despite his public success, Shareef faced personal challenges, including a private battle with cancer revealed in 2021. Following appeals, the Pakistani government allocated funds for his medical treatment.

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Sadly, Umer Shareef passed away in October 2021 at the age of 66, leaving behind a huge legacy. Alongside Moin Akhtar, he is celebrated as one of Pakistan’s finest comedians.

Shareef is survived by his wife Zareen Ghazal and his three children.