Before becoming household names in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, many leading actresses first made their mark as video jockeys (VJs). Hosting music shows, interviewing artists, and entertaining youth audiences, these stars used the platform of TV channels like MTV Pakistan, Aag TV, ARY Musik, and Indus Music to kickstart their careers.
Here’s a look at six popular Pakistani actresses who began as VJs before stepping into the limelight of acting.
1) Mahira Khan ( Aag TV’s “Weekend with Mahira”)
Before becoming Pakistan’s biggest film star, Mahira Khan started her career as a VJ on MTV Pakistan in 2006 and then moved to AAG TV. She hosted Weekends with Mahira, where her confident style, natural charm, and youth-oriented content gained her early recognition. This exposure laid the foundation for her acting career, which took off with Bol and soared with Humsafar, making her one of the most celebrated actresses in the country.
2) Sanam Saeed (Indus Music)
Sanam Saeed began her career as a VJ on Indus Music, where she hosted show Cafe Current. Her cool, composed persona and deep interest in music connected well with the young viewers. Though she remained on-screen in a hosting role for a short time, it provided her with enough presence and performance experience to eventually move into acting. Sanam earned critical acclaim for her strong performance in Zindagi Gulzar Hai and has since become known for her bold role choices in TV and film.
3) Yashma Gill (Play TV)
Yashma Gill started her on-screen journey as a VJ on Play TV, where her lively presence and spontaneous energy made her a favorite among youth. Her time as a VJ allowed her to build confidence and develop a strong screen presence. She eventually transitioned to acting, appearing in several hit dramas like Pyar Ke Sadqay and Bebaak, and is now recognized as one of the prominent actresses of the new generation.
4) Urwa Hocane (ARY Musik)
Urwa Hocane first stepped into the media world as a VJ on ARY Musik, where her expressive style and connection with young audiences stood out. Her vibrant personality quickly translated into an acting career, beginning with Meri Ladli and followed by several successful drama serials and films like Udaari and Punjab Nahi Jaungi. Her journey reflects how VJ-ing served as a strong stepping stone into mainstream entertainment.
5) Syra Yousuf (MTV Pakistan)
Syra Yousuf rose to fame as a fresh face on MTV Pakistan, hosting shows such as Bheja Fry & Most Wanted. where she hosted youth shows that combined music, celebrity interviews, and cultural commentary. Her sweet demeanor and approachable screen presence made her a favorite, paving the way for her acting debut in Mera Naseeb. Over the years, she has appeared in various successful dramas and films, building a reputation for grace and natural acting.
6) Ayesha Omar (Indus Music / MTV)
Ayesha Omar hosted shows as a VJ on both Indus Music and later MTV Pakistan, where she became known for her bold fashion sense and lively screen personality. Her VJ work made her a recognizable face, eventually leading to her iconic role in the sitcom Bulbulay. She is now an established actress, singer, and style icon in Pakistan’s entertainment scene.
7) Sanam Jung (Play TV / Aag TV)
Sanam Jung began her television journey in 2008 as a VJ on Play TV, where her warm personality and engaging style won over viewers. In 2010, she moved to Aag TV, continuing her music show hosting before shifting to acting. Her debut in Dil e Muztar made her an instant favorite, and she has since become one of Pakistan’s most loved drama hosts and actresses.
The journey from VJ to successful actress has been a common path for many in Pakistan’s entertainment industry. Channels like Aag TV, MTV Pakistan, and ARY Musik gave these talented women the platform to connect with audiences and build the confidence that later translated into memorable acting careers. Their stories are a testament to how versatile talent can flourish when given the right stage.