Fahad Mustafa says social media has changed how stars connect with audiences

Actor Fahad Mustafa has opened up about his career, the evolving entertainment industry, and his latest film Zombeid in a recent interview with BBC News Urdu.

Reflecting on his journey in television and cinema, Mustafa said he always aspired to be recognised as a film star despite his extensive work in dramas.

“I used to go and play cricket matches with filmmakers, and people would say, ‘Look, here comes Fahad Mustafa, the film star.’ I would think, ‘I’m just Fahad Mustafa.’ I wasn't hurt by it, but I also wanted to be known as a film star,” he said.

The actor attributed his popularity to the positive image he has cultivated over the years. “Mothers want their sons to be like me, and wives want husbands like me. People in Pakistan feel that I bring positivity and make them laugh. How can I fake that on television?” he remarked.

Speaking about changes within the entertainment industry, Mustafa said social media has blurred traditional class distinctions, creating a more direct connection between celebrities and audiences.

“We are all masses; we don’t categorise. In the age of social platforms, everyone follows the same trends, whether they are rich or poor, a CEO or a watchman. That is how we connect with the public,” he said.

The actor also reflected on public perception and success, noting: “I once heard that when people start liking you, they accept your work even if it is not your best.”

Addressing claims about industry favouritism, Mustafa said he had never personally experienced unfair treatment but acknowledged that such discussions often arise within entertainment circles. “There is no lobby left in the industry,” he said, while emphasising that he remains deeply committed to his work.

Referring to the success of his recent drama Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum, Mustafa said the attention and expectations that followed only strengthened his determination. “After Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum, it felt as though people were waiting for me to fail. When I act, I give it my full time and attention,” he said.

He also highlighted the financial differences between television and cinema, arguing that films involve far greater risk. “At the end of the day, no matter how high a drama’s ratings are, the payment remains the same. Films are different,” he said. “If a drama doesn't work, people move on. If a film fails, everyone knows.”

Discussing his long-running game show Jeeto Pakistan, Mustafa said maintaining energy and enthusiasm after years of hosting can be challenging. “Sometimes I lose motivation because I have been doing it for so long.”

The actor concluded by discussing Zombeid, the thriller-apocalypse film that premiered on Eidul Azha. Mustafa admitted he initially had little interest in zombie or apocalypse-themed stories because the genre is uncommon in Pakistan.

“I never thought I would do a zombie-apocalypse film because it is not something you usually hear about in Pakistan. But sometimes ideas that don't seem interesting at first become exciting once you start making them,” he said.

He also praised his relationship with directors, whom he described as friends, and acknowledged the demanding nature of filmmaking, with shoots sometimes stretching to 20 hours a day.

While exhausting, Mustafa said the creative process remains rewarding and exciting. Earlier this year, the actor also appeared in Aag Lagey Basti Mein alongside Mahira Khan, which was released on Eidul Fitr.