Hamza Ali Abbasi, one of Pakistan’s most recognized actors, has finally clarified long-standing rumors about his departure from the entertainment industry. Speaking candidly on a recent podcast, Hamza addressed the media storm that followed his 2019 announcement, and explained what truly prompted his decision to take a break from acting.
According to Hamza, the widespread belief that he left showbiz for the sake of Islam is based on a misinterpretation of his own words. In 2019, he released a 17-minute video explaining his personal journey, but much of what he shared was misunderstood or overlooked. Nowhere in that video did I say I was quitting showbiz for Islam, he stated during the podcast. I clearly said I was taking a break — a pause — to explore and better understand my faith.
Media Got It Wrong
Hamza expressed frustration over how his message was distorted. The very next day after the release of his video, headlines across Pakistani media declared that he had quit acting permanently for religious reasons. No one bothered to watch the full video,he added. If they had, they would have known I never used the words ‘quitting showbiz for Islam.’ I said I needed time to reflect and understand the deeper aspects of life and faith.
A Year of Study in Dallas
After announcing his temporary break, Hamza traveled to Dallas, Texas, where he spent a year studying under renowned scholar and preacher Javed Ahmed Ghamdi. It was a time of reflection, learning, and transformation,he recalled. I had many questions — about God, the afterlife, resurrection, and the very purpose of life. And I was determined to find their answers through structured study.
During his time in Dallas, Hamza explored Islamic philosophy, theology, and spirituality. His aim wasn’t to abandon his career, but to gain clarity about his beliefs and how they align with his profession. I had spiritual confusion. I wasn’t sure if what I was doing in life was aligned with what I believed in,he said.
From Doubt to Certainty
Hamza shared that before this period of intense study, he was only 20 percent sure about the concepts of God, resurrection, and life after death. But now, he says, his faith is absolute. Today, I am 100 percent certain. There is no doubt in my heart that God exists, that there will be a resurrection, and that life after death is real and eternal.
This clarity has given him peace and purpose — and has also brought him back to the screen with a renewed mindset.
Arts and Islam: A Misunderstood Relationship
Another major misconception Hamza wanted to clear up is the idea that Islam and the performing arts are fundamentally opposed. One of the most important things I learned from Ghamdi Sahib is that Islam does not prohibit the arts,Hamza explained. In fact, the arts can be a powerful medium to spread positive messages and inspire goodness, as long as they stay within ethical and moral bounds.
He pointed out how society often creates unnecessary conflict between religion and creativity. In our culture, we tend to think that being religious means you have to reject the arts. That’s not true. What matters is your intention and the content you are promoting.
Hamza Ali Abbasi has since returned to acting, choosing projects that align with his personal values. He’s also more selective and thoughtful in his roles, ensuring they reflect the principles he believes in. I’m still part of the industry, just more conscious of what I do and why I do it, he said.
He closed the conversation by urging fans and media outlets to be more responsible in interpreting public statements. Before you spread something, make sure you understand it completely,he advised. Misreporting can damage reputations and spread false narratives.
Hamza’s journey is a compelling reminder that faith and profession don’t have to be at odds. In a world full of assumptions, his story brings clarity, showing that it’s possible to seek spiritual depth while staying true to one’s passion.
