Celebrities

Adnan Shah Tipu: If Hollywood Cast Like Pakistan, Al Pacino Would Quit

Adnan Shah Tipu, a familiar face in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, reflected on his 25-year journey during an interview with BBC Urdu. Known for his dynamic performances, Tipu has carved out a niche as a character actor but believes the industry’s preference for appearance over talent remains a major obstacle for true talent to thrive.

In the interview, Tipu expressed that he doesn’t mind whether his characters have shorter or longer screen time as long as they resonate with him. “For me, whether a character is one page long or 10 pages long, if it makes sense to me, it’s a challenge. And if I can bring some positive change in society through that character, then why not?” he explained.

Adnan Shah Tipu and his Thoughts

The In Flames actor also discussed his career as a character actor, lamenting that Pakistan’s entertainment industry still hasn’t fully embraced character-driven films and shows. “I’ve always considered myself a hero, whether in a leading or supporting role. It’s the quality of work that makes you a hero or a zero,” he emphasized.

Contrasting this with the global scene, he highlighted actors like Nawazuddin Siddiqui in India, saying, “In India, Nawazuddin can land a leading role because the film revolves around the character, not his appearance. Here, even if they create a character-driven film, they’ll cast someone who doesn’t fit the role to play it.”

Adnan Shah Tipu openly expressed his frustration with the Pakistani entertainment industry’s obsession with appearance and social media following. He stated, “If people around the world started casting actors based on our standards and their following, actors like Robert De Niro and Al Pacino would quit.”

He also highlighted another issue that restricts the diversity of actors in the industry. “With the type of stories we’re focusing on, we’ll never achieve the diversity needed to cast a range of actors,” he said, stressing the need for more nuanced storytelling that allows talented but unconventional actors to take the spotlight.

Tipu praised filmmakers like Kashif Nisar for breaking this mold, citing Nisar’s bold choice to cast Ehteshamuddin in the lead role of Kabuli Pulao as an example of change.

Switching Off the Villain

The conversation also delved into the psychological effects of playing dark characters. Tipu acknowledged the toll repeated villainous roles can take on an actor’s mental health. “Yes, it affects you, but you have to remember it’s just acting. When you come home and see your wife and kids, that’s your reality check.”

He stressed the importance of learning how to “switch on and switch off” to avoid emotional burnout.

When asked about facing real-life backlash for his real-life villains, Tipu revealed that he often receives hate comments online. He also shared a startling encounter: “I was on a bike with my daughter when a man stopped me and said I deserved what was happening to my character in the drama,” Tipu recalled, adding that such reactions should be seen as compliments. “If this happens, it means you’ve done a great job as an actor.”

Refusing to Be Typecast

Tipu’s career hasn’t been without its struggles. He talked about the challenges of securing serious roles despite his critically acclaimed performance in Khamosh Pani. After his success in the sitcom Sub Set Hai, he received 36 sitcom offers, all of which he had to reject in order to pursue more serious roles. “I went hungry for two years because I didn’t want to be pigeonholed into one style or genre.”

For Tipu, versatility is the essence of acting. “Comedy lets me experiment and lighten the mood, while serious roles allow me to deeply explore emotions. It’s essential to keep growing and challenging yourself. Otherwise, what’s the point?”

The Road Ahead

Despite the challenges, Tipu remains optimistic about change. He pointed to his recent leading role in the film 13 as a sign of progress, though he admitted the change is slower than he’d like. “Things are evolving, but not at the pace we’d prefer. Globally, the focus has shifted to character-driven stories.”

Also Read: Adnan Shah Tipu On Losing Film With Madhuri Dixit

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Farhan Saeed Celebrates Sybil Suhail’s Win

Farhan Saeed, former frontman of the renowned Pakistani band Jal and now a singer-songwriter and actor, took to Instagram to publicly express his pride after Sybil Sohail became the first Pakistani woman to win the gold medal at the Asian Weightlifting Masters Championship in Doha, Qatar.

In a simple Instagram Story, Saeed tagged Sohail herself and wrote, “Proud moment. Congratulations.” Adding a Pakistani flag emoji at the end of his short but sweet message to lock in his national pride, Saeed’s simple message captured the essence of the country’s joy and pride in Sohail’s achievement

This gold medal marked not only her debut in international weightlifting but also a significant milestone for Pakistani women in strength sports.

Previously a decorated powerlifter, Sohail holds titles such as Commonwealth Powerlifting Champion and Asian Commonwealth Powerlifting Champion. Transitioning to weightlifting, she set out with a clear ambition: to raise Pakistan’s flag at major Asian events.

“I aim to make my country proud, make my family proud. We have sacrificed a lot for the sport, but I need to make sure that all of that effort and dedication pays off,” Sohail told The Express Tribune in Doha.

Also Read:Hania Aamir & Farhan Saeed Face Criticism Over Comments On Pahalgam Incident

Celebrities

Ayeza Khan Criticized for Remarks after Sana Yousaf’s Murder

Actress Ayeza Khan is facing widespread criticism for her statement following the horrifying murder of 17-year-old TikTok star Sana Yousaf, with many accusing her of victim-blaming and showing a lack of empathy.

In a now-viral Instagram Story, Ayeza wrote, “Let’s all understand the pros and cons of social media, especially when it comes to our security. Keep your addresses, car numbers, regular spots, and children’s details private. It’s not safe, it’s just not safe.

Share less. Times have changed. Recognize that the audience you have today isn’t the one you personally chose. It’s from all over the world.
Let’s take responsibility for what we share. May Allah protect us all and keep us in good company. Ameen.”

Social media users quickly criticised the timing and tone of her message. Critics argue that by emphasising digital privacy instead of addressing the gender-based violence that led to Sana’s death, Ayeza inadvertently shifted the blame toward the victim.

One user commented, “Ayeza Khan once again effortlessly portraying her lack of brain cells. Stop blaming women for getting murdered and START BLAMING MEN FOR MURDERING them.”

Another wrote, “In other words, Ayeza Khan blamed the victim….?
Great. Now we know where it’s coming from… Your husband is playing toxic roles on national TV, setting terrible examples, and you’re here blaming the victim.”

Many pointed out the irony in her message, citing her husband Danish Taimoor’s frequent portrayal of violent and misogynistic characters in television dramas; roles that, some argue, normalise abusive behaviour and contribute to the unsafe climate women navigate daily.

A user stated, “When a girl says no and faces violence, we shouldn’t question her choices—rather, we should condemn the abuser. Ayeza Khan needs to understand this. Victim blaming solves nothing.”

Another added: “Classic ‘pick me’ behavior from Ayeza Khan. Couldn’t even post a prayer for the deceased had to lecture about social media. Also, your husband makes trash psychotic dramas that glorify this stuff. How about calling that out?”

Also Read: Was Hania Aamir Missing from Nayel Wajahat’s Big Day?

Celebrities

Celebrities Demand Exemplary Punishment in Sana Yousaf’s Brutal Murder

The tragic murder of 17-year-old TikToker and MBBS student Sana Yousaf has shaken Pakistan to its core — and now, the country’s biggest celebrities are speaking out with one voice: justice must be swift, and the punishment must set an example.

On a quiet day that turned into a national nightmare, Sana was gunned down in front of her mother and aunt — allegedly by her own cousin — for nothing more than saying “No.” A simple, rightful refusal to unwanted advances cost her her life.

This chilling case, steeped in violence, entitlement, and gendered rage, has prompted an outpouring of grief and fury from across the nation. Among those leading the call for accountability are Pakistan’s most prominent actors, who have used their platforms not just to mourn, but to demand justice that speaks louder than hashtags.

Mahira Khan, who has long used her voice to amplify social justice issues, didn’t mince words. “An example needs to be made,” she said, urging the legal system to ensure that Sana’s killer receives the kind of punishment that sends a powerful message: Women are not disposable. No means no. And murder will not go unpunished.

Actress Sajal Aly echoed the nation’s heartbreak, lamenting that a young girl full of life and dreams was shot dead simply for exercising her right to reject a man. “How many more?” her post seemed to ask — a question that has haunted too many families, too many daughters.

Maya Ali expressed open frustration and fury, demanding the harshest consequences for the perpetrator. “He should be hanged,” she wrote, voicing what many felt: that justice, in this case, must be clear, public, and absolute.

Imran Abbas, deeply disturbed, called on authorities to treat this case not as an isolated tragedy, but as part of a horrifying pattern of violence against women. His words carried the weight of sorrow and the urgency of action: this must stop now.

Veteran actress Nadia Jamil, known for her activism, also shared her devastation at Sana’s murder. She reminded her followers that behind every trending hashtag is a real girl, a real life cut short — and a grieving family left with nothing but silence where laughter once lived.

The suspect, now in custody, has reportedly confessed. The weapon was recovered. The evidence is there. What remains to be seen is whether Pakistan’s justice system will rise to the occasion — not just for Sana, but for every woman who’s been silenced, threatened, or killed for daring to say no.

This is not just about one girl. It is about all of them. It is about reclaiming the basic human right to live, to reject, to be safe in one’s home — even from those who share your blood.

Sana Yousaf should have been studying, smiling into her phone, and planning a future. Instead, her name has become a rallying cry.