1971–1998
Shahid began his acting career in 1970 when director Abbas Nosha cast him in the film Ek Raat. However, this film was never released. His proper debut came shortly afterward when S.A. Bukhari offered him a lead role in the film Aansoo (1971), where he portrayed a negative character named Nadeem. The film was both a critical and commercial success, opening the doors for Shahid in the film industry.
During the 1970s and 1980s, Shahid became one of the most sought-after actors in Pakistani cinema. He acted in nearly 300 films, covering a range of genres and character types. He starred opposite top heroines of the era, including Shabnam, Nisho, Sangeeta, Babra Sharif, and Deeba.
In 1972, he appeared in the classic film Umrao Jaan Ada, which is considered one of the landmark films of Pakistani cinema. His performance further solidified his standing as a leading actor. Other notable films include Shararat, Nehle Pe Dehla, Baharon Ki Manzil, Abhi To Main Jawan Hoon, Mere Huzoor, Shama-e-Mohabbat, Aah-e-Bewafa, Ishqash, Dil Aur Duniya, Dhanak, Deedar, Dekha Jaayega, Pyar Ka Gharana, Wada, Naukrewani Da Theka, Dehshat Khan, Jadoo, and Mirza Jat.
Shahid quit working in films as a result of sub-standard film production in Pakistan film industry after he worked Zor, directed by Syed Noor and released in 1998, where he played the character of Dawud, the movie's main antagonist.
