Cinema is the reason I'm an actor today: Bilal Abbas Khan on acting inspirations

‘Balaa’ star discusses his passion for acting, career trajectory in recent interview

Bilal Abbas Khan has made a drastic impact on the drama industry with his remarkable performances serials such as Cheekh, Pyar ke Sadqay, Balaa and the currently on-air drama, Dunk. His stellar performances have gained the attention of many around the world.

In just about four years, the O Rangreza actor proved his mettle in a wide array of projects opposite the likes of Saba Qamar, Ushna Shah, Yumna Zaidi, Sana Javed and Madiha Imam.

Recently, Khan was listed in the Top 50 Global Asian Stars and boasts over two million Instagram followers in a short span of time. One of his upcoming projects includes a feature film helmed by Nabeel Qureshi titled Khel Khel Mein, wherein he will star alongside celebrated actor Sajal Aly.

In an interview with Eastern Eye, Abbas discussed his passion for actor, career trajectory and what he hopes the future holds.

Acting debut

“My first foray into acting came from watching a lot of films,” began Khan when asked about his journey. “I have always been that avid binge-watching young adult and must I add, I saw a lot of films! In fact, I’ve watched way too many in my days! Bollywood, South-Indian, Hollywood or any other international releases… Cinema is the reason why I’m an actor today.”

He added, “I have just ventured into the industry as an actor but looking back, it has been quite an eventful journey. I’m glad I took this decision and made mistakes along the way. I followed my dreams and that’s the reason why I stand here today, more grateful than ever.”

Challenging characters

Asked about the characters he has done over the past, the 27-year-old said, “I consider myself fortunate enough to have been given such great roles that I have enjoyed thoroughly. For me, when one is playing a certain character, it’s essentially the beginning to live like that person for several months until you grow fondness for it along the way. All my characters are close to my heart and always will be.”

Khan further elaborated on how picking his roles carefully is a crucial step for growth. “I make a conscious effort to choose and select roles that challenge me, allowing me to explore the hidden actor within,” he explained. “The most challenging character for me was Wajih from Cheekh as that role was quite the adventure. It required a lot of mental ability to absorb all that Wajih was meant to be, as he was a multi-dimensional character himself.”

The boy next door

When asked what he likes, other than acting, Khan shared, “I have always been into video games, binge-watching and working out. Consider it as my past time activity as I’m a private person. These are the things that speak the most to me when I’m not working.”

He continued, “When I see someone performing well in a film or show that I’m watching, in that moment, it allows me to make mental notes and motivates me to raise the bar for myself even more.”
Lastly, the actor confessed if he were to learn another skill, he would pick up a language or two, learn dancing, acquire some fighting skills and build up his stamina to develop more as an actor.