Saud blames Shaan, Syed Noor for Lollywood's decline

Actor becomes vocal about the state of cinema

In a promotional video for Excuse Me with Ahmad Ali Butt that is now making rounds on the internet, actor and producer Saud Qasmi candidly shared his views on the state of the Pakistani film industry and the individuals he believes are responsible for its decline.

"Shaan and Syed Noor have hurt Lollywood. There are a few others, but these are the main people. If they wanted, the industry could have gone far. We've all contributed to its downfall. Shaan's problem is that he…" Saud trailed off, laughing before continuing, "Let's just say that instead of finding faults in others you should focus on your own faults."

Saud's remarks quickly sparked a heated debate online. Social media users flocked to the comments section to defend Shaan, widely regarded as one of Pakistan's most iconic film stars.

"Shaan is the one and only superstar in Pakistan," wrote one Instagram user in support.

Another commenter took a different stance, pointing fingers back at Saud's own cinematic contributions: "Look who's talking. Saud did extremely stupid films."

However, there were also voices that backed Saud's perspective. "He's not wrong," one user simply agreed.

This isn't the first time the actor has been vocal about the state of Pakistan's entertainment industry. In an appearance on Sahiba's talk show in February 2024, Saud spoke about his decision to refrain from acting in the dramas he produced, a rare move in an industry where producers often cast themselves in prominent roles. Reflecting on his groundbreaking series Yeh Zindagi Hai, he described how it set a precedent in Pakistani television storytelling.

"When I was working and started dramas, I gave my own characters to others. I could have done them myself. But I thought no, (the other actor) should be pushed ahead. Give him a chance. I've given work to everyone. I haven't appeared as a hero in my production. No one's ever done this."

However, Saud expressed disappointment at the lack of acknowledgment from those he helped elevate. "It was a mistake. Those whom I gave work to did not even turn back to acknowledge me. They don't even take my name. So many people have (been propelled forward) due to my dramas. I don't know, are they embarrassed to say so?"