In a shifting landscape of the Pakistani entertainment industry, a notable number of celebrated actresses have quietly withdrawn from the limelight over the past few years.
Whether due to personal transformations, religious inclinations, or a conscious choice to step back from the public eye, the disappearance of these talented women has left fans wondering: where did they go, and are they coming back?
Between 2020 and 2025, several high-profile actresses who once ruled television screens with blockbuster dramas have either retired, taken indefinite breaks, or shifted their focus entirely away from acting. From long-term absences to public declarations of quitting showbiz, these actresses have had a significant impact on the industry and its audiences. While a few are expected to make comebacks, others seem content with a life away from fame.
Aiman Khan
One of the most followed celebrities in Pakistan, Aiman Khan stepped away from acting after her marriage in 2018. Her last major project was Hari Hari Churiyaan. Although active on social media, she has not returned to acting.
Zarnish Khan
Known for her roles in Sun Yara and Ek Mohabbat Kaafi Hai, Zarnish reportedly distanced herself from the industry after performing Umrah in early 2023. She deleted her glamorous social media content and has shown no intention of returning to acting.
Sanam Chaudhry
Famous for her performances in Meer Abru and Ghar Titli Ka Par, Sanam declared her retirement in 2021. Since then, she has embraced a more spiritual path and shifted her focus to family life, though she once hinted at returning under specific modest conditions.
Anum Fayyaz
Last seen in Dikhawa Season 3 and Beqadar (2022), Anum officially announced her retirement in 2023 to pursue a more spiritual and family-oriented lifestyle. Since then, she has remained absent from television screens with no new projects announced.
Naimal Khawar Khan
Having captured hearts with her role in Anaa (2019), Naimal took a hiatus post-marriage. However, she is set to make a comeback in 2025 in a drama opposite Hamza Ali Abbasi, marking her return after a five-year break.
Sanam Baloch
Last seen in Khaas (2019), Sanam Baloch stepped back from acting amid personal developments. Though there is speculation about her return following a public appearance, no official project has been confirmed.
Rabi Pirzada
After a personal controversy in 2019, singer and actress Rabi Pirzada chose to leave the entertainment industry. She has since devoted herself to religious and humanitarian causes, remaining inactive in showbiz.
Sara Chaudhry
Once a household name in the early 2000s, Sara Chaudhry gradually faded from the screen around 2019. She has not acted since, citing religious motivations for her departure.
Urooj Nasir
Known for her bold on-screen presence in the early 2000s, Urooj stepped away from acting around 2019. She has remained low-profile, focusing on personal growth and faith.
Ainy Jaffri
After appearing in Tajdeed-e-Wafa (2018) and the film Ballu Mahi, Ainy took a long break but returned recently in a web series, signaling a soft comeback into acting.
Ayesha Khan
A beloved figure in Pakistani dramas like Mann Mayal and Mehram, Ayesha Khan retired in 2018 following her marriage. Sadly, reports in 2025 confirmed her passing, leaving fans heartbroken.
Sarwat Gilani
While not regularly seen on TV, Sarwat remains highly active in selective, meaningful roles. From the critically acclaimed Churails and Qatil Haseenaon Ke Naam to the internationally celebrated film Joyland (2022), she continues to evolve as a performer and social advocate.
Amna Sheikh
Last seen in prominent dramas during the 2010s, including Maat, Amna Sheikh has been missing from mainstream projects. Though fans speculate about a potential comeback, there has been no official confirmation.
These leading actresses’ exit from the Pakistani entertainment scene marks a period of personal transformation. While their current focus is off-screen, the evolving industry may yet see surprising comebacks, reflecting the intricate balance between celebrity life and personal choices.
