Veteran Pakistani actors Tipu Sharif and Alia Ali have sparked conversation online after candidly discussing what they believe are some of the biggest issues plaguing the entertainment industry, including toxic behaviour, favouritism and the growing culture of celebrity privilege on drama sets.
The actors appeared on a podcast for Fuchsia Magazine hosted by Rabia Mughni, where they openly shared their experiences working in the television industry and reflected on how the work environment has changed over the years.
During the conversation, the host remarked that actors seem to have become more toxic in recent times and asked for their opinion on the matter.
Responding to the question, Tipu Sharif agreed and claimed that such behaviour is particularly noticeable among some actresses.
“I believe that is true, especially when it comes to some actresses. If you meet certain heroine-type actresses in a social setting, at a production house or on a drama set, you feel like they are completely different people. If they are surrounded by two or three people from their circle, they may not even speak to you. But if you are someone like Fawad Khan, then they will happily come and sit beside you.”
The actor's remarks highlighted what he described as a hierarchy-driven culture where people often treat colleagues differently based on their popularity and status.
Adding her perspective, Alia Ali pointed to what she sees as favouritism on sets, particularly when it comes to established stars.
“There is another reality that people don't often talk about. If an established star is performing a scene, they may be given 10, 20 or even 25 takes until the director is satisfied. The scene won't move forward until their shot is approved. But when it comes to other actors, they are expected to deliver everything perfectly in just one take.”
Alia further explained that repeated takes can sometimes negatively affect an actor's performance.
“Personally, I consider myself a one-take artist. Either I deliver my best performance in the first take or, after repeating it several times, I become drained and the expressions lose their impact. For me, it becomes difficult to recreate the same energy again.”
Towards the end of the discussion, Tipu Sharif urged fellow actors to reflect on their conduct and remain open to learning.
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“Actresses especially should revisit their behaviour because the industry is growing and we need to help it grow even further. Every person continues to learn throughout life. The day we start believing that we know everything is the day growth stops.”
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Their candid remarks have since sparked debate on social media, with many users discussing whether favouritism, celebrity culture and unprofessional behaviour remain persistent issues within Pakistan's entertainment industry.
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