The Sun issues apology to former ‘Coronation Street’ star Qasim Akhtar over false extremism claims

Former ‘Coronation Street’ and ‘Shameless’ actor Qasim Akhtar has received a public apology and damages from The Sun newspaper after High Court libel proceedings over false allegations linking him to Islamic extremism.

Akhtar, 35, from Manchester, is widely known for his role as Chesney Karib in Channel 4’s long-running comedy drama ‘Shameless’ between 2007 and 2013, and later as Zeedan Nazir in ITV’s ‘Coronation Street’ from 2014 until 2023.

The legal action arose from an article published by The Sun in November 2025, both online and in print, which claimed that Akhtar had “backed” and “teamed up with” an Islamic cleric. The article further alleged he was associated with extremism, radicalisation and violence, and falsely stated that he had moved to Pakistan and undertaken firearms training.

In March 2026, Akhtar instructed media law firm Taylor Hampton to issue High Court proceedings against News Group Newspapers, the publisher of The Sun, for libel and defamation. The case has now been settled.

In a statement published by the newspaper, The Sun said: “We now accept that these allegations were entirely false and should never have been published. Mr Akhtar has never endorsed or supported any such views and strongly condemns all forms of extremism and violence.

“He has never been involved in or associated with radicalisation nor has he, as further falsely claimed, moved to Pakistan and undertaken firearms training.

“We have agreed to pay Mr Akhtar a sum in damages and apologise unreservedly for the serious harm and distress caused to him by the publication of these false allegations.”

As part of the settlement, The Sun has agreed to pay damages and legal costs, and has undertaken not to repeat the allegations. The parties will also issue a statement in open court with permission granted by the High Court.

Daniel Taylor, Managing Partner at Taylor Hampton, described the article as “extremely serious and deeply damaging.” He said: “The allegations made against Mr Akhtar were entirely false and carried profoundly harmful implications, particularly given the nature of the claims and the wider social climate surrounding extremism.

“Mr Akhtar is a respected actor and public figure who has never supported or endorsed any form of extremism or violence. The article also had the effect of unfairly targeting him because of his religion and identity.”

He added: “We hope this apology serves as an important reminder of the serious consequences reckless reporting can have on people’s lives.”