Yasir Hussain defends comedy, calls for an end to ‘People’s Court’ over controversial performances

Actor and comedian Yasir Hussain has addressed the criticism he frequently receives online, arguing that comedians should not be held

Actor and comedian Yasir Hussain has addressed the criticism he frequently receives online, arguing that comedians should not be held to stricter standards than journalists, policymakers or other public figures. Speaking in a recent interview, Hussain discussed the ongoing debate over boundaries in comedy and questioned why restrictions are often demanded specifically from comedians.

Hussain said that if society believes boundaries are necessary, they should be applied consistently across all fields. He argued that journalism, government policies and other forms of public expression should also be subject to the same standards rather than placing additional restrictions on comedy.

Referring to his appearance on Nadir Ali’s podcast, Hussain said guests already know the host’s style and the kind of questions they may face before agreeing to participate. He explained that he appeared on the programme despite being aware that Nadir Ali was known for asking controversial questions and using a particular style of humour. According to Hussain, people who dislike a host’s approach should consider that before appearing on the programme instead of objecting afterward.

He applied the same argument to stand-up comedy, saying audiences voluntarily purchase tickets to watch a particular comedian. Hussain maintained that people who do not enjoy a performer’s material have the option of not attending or watching the show. In his view, disagreement with comedy should not automatically lead to calls for a performer to be cancelled.

The actor further argued that serious complaints should be handled through legal and institutional channels rather than through what he described as a “people’s court”. He said that if an issue genuinely involves a violation of law, relevant government authorities and courts already exist to examine such matters. He urged people to rely on proper legal procedures instead of reaching public verdicts through social media backlash.

Discussing how he responds to criticism, Hussain said negative reactions no longer affect him significantly. Rather than focusing on criticism, he prefers to remember the positive response from audiences, particularly their applause and appreciation during his performances.

Hussain also spoke about his upcoming theatre play, *So Suite*, which is set to be staged in Lahore. He praised Punjab’s efforts to revive theatre and appreciated Provincial Minister for Information and Culture Azma Bokhari for supporting the initiative. He said theatre in Karachi receives considerable support from the Arts Council but called on the Sindh government to provide greater assistance to local theatre performers and emerging artists.

Explaining his preference for theatre over television, Hussain said theatre requires considerable dedication, time and effort. Although television provides regular professional opportunities, he said he has repeatedly expressed his reluctance to work in the medium. However, he remains open to returning to television if offered a strong character, creative freedom and a quality production.

For Hussain, theatre continues to hold a special place in his career. He described the experience as something he deeply enjoys and suggested that nothing compares to the satisfaction he gets from performing on stage.

Hussain was most recently seen on television as Inspector Sajid in Express Entertainment’s crime drama *Missing Darling*, which revolves around the disappearance of a TikToker known as “Darling” and the secrets revealed during the investigation.