Bafta-winning actor Adeel Akhtar has revealed he was subjected to a lengthy and intimidating interrogation by US airport security, who questioned him about potential links to terrorist organisations.
The Harrowing Detention at JFK
Akhtar, known for his role in the satirical film Four Lions, recounted the incident which took place in 2002 while travelling to an audition in New York with his girlfriend. Speaking on BBC Radio 4's Desert Island Discs, he described how security personnel took his passport just before he boarded his flight in the UK, promising its return upon arrival at John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
"Once we landed at JFK, the plane sort of taxied off into a secluded part on the runway, and then I see this convoy of cars coming through," Akhtar said. Officials boarded the aircraft and informed him they intended to handcuff him "for their own protection." He was then escorted into the airport for questioning.
Hours of Questioning on Faith and Allegiances
The actor detailed a protracted and unsettling process. The interrogation lasted for four or five hours, involving periods of intense waiting alongside direct questioning. The focus of the security officials' inquiries was deeply personal and pointed.
"They were asking if I had any sort of affiliations to terrorist organisations, and whether I was a practicing Muslim or not," Akhtar stated. He emphasised the context of the era, noting this was "during the time of Guantanamo and things like that," which made him acutely aware of the implications behind their questions.
Akhtar described maintaining his composure throughout the ordeal. "I just sort of held my nerve and answered the questions as honestly as I could, and then got out of there," he said, admitting the experience was profoundly "scary."
Aftermath and a Father's Failed Legal Battle
Despite being "shocked" by the event, Akhtar proceeded to attend his audition. The repercussions, however, extended far beyond that day. His father, operating on a steadfast belief in justice and the rule of law, subsequently attempted to sue the FBI over the treatment of his son.
Akhtar recounted the emotional toll this failed legal action took on his father. "I just saw this really proud man not believe in what he believed in for years and years and years," he shared. He interpreted his father's actions as an expression of love and protection, and witnessing his inability to achieve justice left his father "emotionally withdrawn" and "slightly beaten."
Adeel Akhtar has since established a distinguished career, winning Baftas for his performances in the BBC film Murdered By My Father and the crime drama Sherwood, in addition to his celebrated role in Four Lions.
