Zoya Nasir criticises praise for Sacha Baron Cohen’s Pakistan remark

Pakistani actor Zoya Nasir has questioned the positive reaction to British comedian Sacha Baron Cohen’s recent mention of Pakistan arguing that his controversial comedy and use of cultural stereotypes deserve greater scrutiny.

Nasir shared her views on Instagram Stories after a video featuring Cohen and Pakistani actor Haris Waheed circulated on social media. The exchange attracted attention after Cohen acknowledged Waheed’s Pakistani identity during their brief meeting.

Waheed who posted the video earlier this week is seen approaching Cohen, expressing his admiration for the comedian and telling him that he is from Pakistan. Cohen, appearing in character for the upcoming film Ali G: Who Iz I responds with an enthusiastic shoutout to Pakistan, prompting cheers from people nearby.

The interaction received a warm response online, with many users appreciating the international star’s recognition of the country. However Nasir challenged the widespread enthusiasm, pointing to what she considers problematic aspects of Cohen’s past work.

In her Instagram Stories, the actor criticised what she described as a lack of awareness about the comedian’s treatment of Muslims and his use of racial and religious stereotypes. She also questioned whether the exchange should be interpreted as a genuinely positive moment.

Nasir’s remarks have brought renewed attention to the debate surrounding Cohen’s style of comedy and the distinction between satire and potentially offensive portrayals of different communities.

Cohen is known for controversial characters that use exaggerated accents, cultural imitation and provocative humour to expose prejudice and social attitudes. His work has nevertheless drawn criticism over whether such portrayals challenge stereotypes or risk reinforcing them.

His Borat character has generated debate over ethnic and cultural caricatures, while The Dictator has faced scrutiny for its portrayal of authoritarianism and Middle Eastern communities. His Ali G persona has also attracted criticism for borrowing elements of Black culture.

Cohen has defended his comedy as satire intended to expose ignorance prejudice and bias rather than promote them.

In an interview published by Time on October 20, 2026 the comedian explained that Ali G was created to highlight cultural prejudice and show how people in positions of authority could be misled by the character. He acknowledged that audiences do not always interpret his work in the same way.

Nasir’s criticism underscores the differing reactions to Cohen’s comedy, particularly when appearances by his fictional characters are viewed as gestures of goodwill towards particular countries or communities.