"What difference does it make? Let them talk": Humayun Saeed responds to criticism
Pakistani film and drama megastar Humayun Saeed has finally responded to the recent criticism from veteran actor Firdous Jamal.
A few days ago, in an interview, Firdous Jamal remarked that in his opinion, Humayun Saeed is not a particularly good actor, noting that there are more talented actors in the industry.
He acknowledged that Saeed has access to significant resources and platforms and has worked in a few good dramas, which is why people like him.
However, Jamal also suggested that Saeed uses his resources to advance his own career and prevent better actors from coming forward.
In the wake of Jamal’s comments, several prominent Pakistani actors came to Saeed’s defence, with actor Yasir Hussain also weighing in, directing his frustration towards Pakistani TV hosts.
In a message shared on his official Instagram story, Hussain expressed his admiration for Saeed, calling him a major star in the film industry, but also praised Firdous Jamal’s acting talent.
He criticised TV hosts for inviting Firdous Jamal onto shows at his age and asking him controversial questions.
Hussain angrily suggested that hosts should ask Firdous Jamal once and for all to write his opinions about Humayun Saeed and Mahira Khan on stamp paper and then leave him alone.
Humayun Saeed, after Hussain’s message went viral on social media, also shared it on his own Instagram story, adding, "Yes! This message is for all hosts."
Earlier during an interview with Nida Yasir, when asked about criticism regarding his age and continued prominence in lead roles, Saeed displayed a nonchalant attitude, claiming that he remains unfazed by such remarks.
In a bold assertion, he remarked that those who criticise him are at a lower level and that he gauges his success by the audience's continued support and ticket sales.
"In Pakistan, insecurities are more," he began. "Our mindset has changed. Everyone has an issue with all successful people.
"Secondly, all controversies arise from people who are lower than you. If they're above you, do they say such things? Someone who is more successful will not criticise you. It will come from someone who is below you. If you don't receive such criticism, understand that there is a problem with you. You're not working well."
When asked by Nida if he feels hurt by the criticism, he said, "They will say it, why not?" He added, "They must think, 'When will he quit? He keeps appearing as a hero.' What difference does it make? Let them talk."
In a confident assertion, he furthered, "The day they stop buying my tickets is the day I will know that my time is over or I am not doing the right kind of work. They may talk, but they're the ones who come to watch my films the most after spending their money".
"There could be 100 comments out of which two say why is he coming as a hero, but they will keep talking forever. They've been saying this since my first film and they'll say it till the next ten films."