Today marks a deeply sorrowful and heartbreaking day for the Pakistani showbiz industry. On Tuesday, January 27, 2026, the legendary actor Khalid Hafeez, best known and loved by millions as "Shamim" from the cult classic drama serial Guest House, departed this temporary world.
Khalid Hafeez was an artist who defined an era of PTV. His journey from a musician to one of the most iconic faces of Pakistani television is a story of talent, versatility, and resilience.
From Music to the Screen: The Early Days
Born in 1942, Khalid Hafeez was one of four brothers. Interestingly, acting was not his original dream. As a young man, he formed a music band called the "Bazooka Band". However, when the band did not find significant success, destiny led him toward the Pakistan Television Corporation (PTV).
He began appearing in dramas during PTV's early days. By 1979, he was making his mark in the drama series Gharonda (play: Kacha Sheesha) alongside Roohi Bano, and in Ghar Chota Sa with Bushra Ansari.
His versatility was evident early on. In 1980, he starred in the Nishan-e-Haider special Captain Raja Muhammad Sarwar Shaheed. He delivered memorable dialogue in the role, portraying the intensity of military conflict:
"No Sarwar, at this moment you are not as important as the reinforcements... and every single man of the reinforcements is extremely important to us."
The Role That Changed Everything: Guest House
While he was a respected actor, it was the 1991–1992 blockbuster sitcom Guest House (aired from PTV Islamabad Center) that skyrocketed him to the heights of fame.
Playing the role of Mr. Shamim, the owner of the guest house, Khalid Hafeez created a character that became a household name. His portrayal was so natural and endearing that it earned him overnight stardom. To this day, fans remember his dialogues and his unique, sincere style of acting.
"My style of love was sincerity, not my weakness."
A Versatile Performer
Khalid Hafeez proved he wasn't limited to comedy. In 1993, he took on a completely different avatar in the popular drama Shahbaz. He played Khabar Khan (KK), a mafia head whose goal was to spread chaos. His dialogue from the show remains iconic:
"KK... When there is peace in the city, I feel anxious. When there is a little chaos and noise, it feels lively."
Despite his massive popularity and numerous offers, Khalid Hafeez remained highly selective. He was primarily a businessman who owned a travel agency and a Pizza Center in Islamabad; acting was his passion, not his primary livelihood.
Notable Works:
- Guest House
- Shahbaz
- Neend
- Kundi
- Kacha Sheesha
- Ghar Chota Sa
- Nishan-e-Haider
- Mohabbat Aur Mausam
- Yeh Chahatein Yeh Ranjishein
- Welcome to Pakistan
In 1996, he also donned the producer's hat for the popular drama Aahan, written by Syed Wasi Shah.
The Final Years
Khalid Hafeez spent his later years in Islamabad, living with his younger son Haroon and his grandchildren, while his elder son resides in the USA.
Behind the scenes, he fought a long health battle. Since 1990, he had been living with only one functioning kidney. In recent times, due to complications with that remaining kidney, he was on dialysis.
On January 27, 2026, he lost this battle and passed away, leaving behind a legacy of laughter and artistic excellence. As he once said in a philosophical moment:
"When a person starts finding their past beautiful, golden, and good, understand that they have grown old."
A Final Prayer
We pray that Allah (SWT) grants him complete forgiveness, overlooks his shortcomings, and grants him a high station in Jannat-ul-Firdaus. May the Almighty grant Sabr-e-Jameel (beautiful patience) to his grieving family and fans. Ameen.
Lesson from his Life: Always remember, never wish ill for anyone. Always think good and wish good for others, and Allah will reward you for it.