‘He only had pneumonia’: Shafqat Cheema’s son rubbishes reports of his father being in a coma

In the wake of reports of veteran Pakistani actor Shafqat Cheema’s ill health, his son Sheheryar Cheema has stepped forward to clear the air and clarify that his father is not in a coma.

Contrary to reports claiming that “Pakistan’s favourite villain” — a title the Punjabi film star has earned over the years — suffered a stroke and slipped into a coma, Sheheryar confirmed that his father’s condition was never that serious.

He told Images, “He only had pneumonia, and Alhamdulillah, he is feeling well and is home now.”

Earlier, a video of Sheheryar had circulated online, in which he labelled reports about his father’s coma and stroke “fake news.” He added that Shafqat was temporarily admitted to Lahore’s Shalimar Hospital due to pneumonia and has since been discharged.

Several incorrect news reports painted a very alarming picture. One report stated that the renowned Punjabi actor had been admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to a blood clot in his brain, resulting in a coma. They also mentioned that his family had requested prayers for his recovery.

Naturally anxious over the conflicting information, fans took to social media to express both worry and relief. Some criticised the media for spreading unverified news, calling for more responsible reporting, especially when senior actors are concerned.

Shafqat Cheema is widely known for playing iconic villainous roles in several Punjabi films. He is notably known to have played the villain in the 2011 blockbuster film Bol. He also acted in a supporting role in the drama Khuda Aur Muhabbat. Most recently, he played Jeeva Natt in Bilal Lashari’s The Legend of Maula Jatt.