Veteran actor Shehzad Nawaz has candidly discussed the limitations and typecasting he faces in the Pakistani drama industry. Speaking on a recent episode of 365 News’ talk show, Nawaz expressed his frustration with being repeatedly cast in father roles, despite feeling that he is not yet old enough for such characters.

Nawaz explained that it is common in the industry for actors to be typecast into specific roles. In his case, he has often been offered roles as the father of young characters, including those of his close friends. “I have played the role of a father to my friends in several dramas, which is something I find rather odd,” he said.

The actor also pointed out some peculiar aspects of the industry, particularly when it comes to actors with facial hair. He noted that actors with thick, well-groomed mustaches are rarely cast as historical warriors or great leaders. Instead, they are often relegated to playing typical feudal lords or landlords. Nawaz emphasized that a well-maintained mustache is often seen as a symbol of masculinity, but it rarely translates into heroic roles in the industry.

Another point of contention for Nawaz is the industry’s tendency to cast older actors in leading roles, while younger actors like himself are more often assigned to roles as fathers. He pointed out that while actors of his age group, such as Nauman Ijaz, continue to land heroic roles, he himself is mainly offered father figures, with many of his on-screen wives being killed off in the plotlines. “I don’t understand why my characters always have widowed wives or even two wives who die,” he added.

In response to this recurring issue, Nawaz revealed that he plans to take matters into his own hands. “I have decided to produce my own drama soon, and in it, I will cast myself as the hero,” he said, acknowledging that more and more actors are now taking control of their careers in this way.

Nawaz’s comments shed light on the challenges faced by seasoned actors in an industry that often relies on typecasting, and his decision to step behind the camera may pave the way for a new direction in his career.

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