Fawad Khan among judges as ‘Pakistan Idol’ returns after decades-long hiatus

Popular reality television show Pakistan Idol is set to return after more than a decade, with a new lineup of celebrity judges, including renowned actor and singer Fawad Khan, international media outlet Variety reported this week.

Originally aired on Geo Entertainment from December 2013 to April 2014, Pakistan Idol followed the format of the globally recognised “Idol” franchise, created by British producer Simon Fuller. The first season featured Ali Azmat, Hadiqa Kiani, and Bushra Ansari as judges.

According to Variety, production company MHL Global has acquired the rights from format distributor Fremantle to revive the competition.

The upcoming season will feature a high-profile judging panel including Fawad Khan, vocalist Zeb Bangash, qawwali artist Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, and musician Bilal Maqsood of Strings.

MHL Global has also announced a multi-platform broadcast strategy, with the show scheduled to air simultaneously on five Pakistani television networks — an unprecedented move for the global Idol franchise.

In addition to traditional TV broadcasting, the reboot will include modern digital engagement. Online auditions will be launched via the Begin platform, while in-person auditions are planned across major cities and remote areas of Pakistan.