Veteran Pakistani actor and writer Mohammed Ahmed has shared his thoughts on the growing trend of online criticism and controversy-driven content, saying many people now gain popularity by criticising others instead of creating meaningful work.
Speaking during a recent conversation, Mohammed Ahmed sarcastically remarked that acting and writing no longer seem to be considered difficult professions by many social media users. He said the easiest way to attract attention today is to criticize others and create controversy, as such content quickly gains likes and engagement online.
Without naming anyone, Mohammed Ahmed said that when some people have no work or fail to achieve success in their own careers, they often turn to speaking negatively about others. According to him, creating online controversies has become an easy way to gain views, followers and public attention.
He also expressed concern over the growing popularity of roasting, gossip and personal criticism on platforms such as YouTube and TikTok. He said negative content often receives more attention than original or creative work, encouraging more people to follow the same approach.
Mohammed Ahmed added that genuine talent, whether in acting, writing or any other creative field, takes years of hard work and dedication. However, he believes social media often rewards sensational content, allowing controversy to spread much faster than meaningful creative work.
Although Mohammed Ahmed did not mention anyone by name, his remarks have sparked discussion on social media, with many users interpreting them as an indirect criticism of personalities who remain in the spotlight through controversy rather than their professional work.
His remarks also received support from several well-known figures in Pakistan's entertainment industry. Host Maya Khan, producer Shazia Wajahat, director Mehreen Jabbar, actor Dr. Ejaz Waris, actress Rabya Kulsoom and actor Adeel Husain reacted with supportive comments, praising both his message and his sense of humour.
Director Mohammed Ehteshamuddin jokingly commented that Mohammed Ahmed was far too decent to ever become the kind of person he was describing.
Several fans also appreciated the respectful way he expressed his views, with one user writing that criticism delivered with grace and good manners has become rare in today's entertainment industry.
The discussion also drew appreciation from fans outside Pakistan, with one Indian admirer praising Mohammed Ahmed's sincere performances and saying his work is loved by audiences across the border.