Some of the actors in our entertainment industry have not only graced screens but woven stories, evoked emotions, and etched their names into the fabric of Pakistani entertainment, becoming beloved and iconic figures in their own right. While audiences have adored them on the big screen, it’s their roots on the small screen that laid the foundation for their success. These celebrities, once household names through their television dramas, have seamlessly transitioned to the world of films. From the small screen to the silver screen, they’ve not only retained their popularity but have also left an indelible mark on both the drama and film industries, showcasing their versatility and conquering both realms with success.
We’ve compiled a list of 5 actors who have smoothly made the leap from television to the silver screen, leaving an impact in both realms.
Fawad Khan
The nation’s crush, Fawad Khan has this innate ability to capture the audience’s attention with his screen presence. Fawad Khan made his television debut as the gawky spy named Bond in the 2001 sitcom Jutt and Bond. After that, there was no looking back for him. He was part of several dramas and then switched to films, never failing to impress his loyal fan base.
His first acting appearance in a film was in Shoaib Mansoor’s socio-drama Khuda Kay Liye, where he plays the intriguing role of a musician who is brainwashed by the local maulvi.
Fawad Khan has gone on to play versatile roles in various films, both in Pakistan and across the border. His most notable work in India has been in the films Khoobsurat and Kapoor & Sons where he played the lead role. He was also the protagonist in the mega-hit film of Pakistan, The Legend of Maula Jatt. His latest film, Money Back Guarantee was released early in the year. While he might not grace the screen frequently, there’s no doubt about his immense stardom and we can’t wait to see him next in Neelofar.
Maya Ali
The stunning Maya Ali made her debut on television back in 2011. Since then, she has been unstoppable. The actress gained recognition for her performances in dramas such as Diyar-e-Dil, Mann Mayal, and Aun Zara among many other projects. After delivering versatile performances, the actress made her film debut in 2018 in the romantic action-comedy film Teefa in Trouble alongside Ali Zafar. She played the role of Anya Bonzo in the film and was praised for her performance and her on-screen chemistry with her co-actor.
Maya Ali continued her streak of adding charisma and glamour to the screen after she went on to do Asim Raza’s film Parey Hut Love, in which she played the strong-willed female protagonist Saniya. The actress was also praised for her on-screen chemistry with Sheheryar Munawar in the film. As of now, according to the latest reports, Maya Ali is working on her new film Aasman Bolay Ga, a directorial project of Shoaib Mansoor. We are excited to see what Maya has in store for us this time.
Fahad Mustafa
Fahad Mustafa has proven his versatility by taking on different roles in the entertainment industry. From a successful producer to a charming actor, he has done it all. Fahad Mustafa has been a part of some of the most remembered dramas of our industry, including Main Abdul Qadir Hoon, where he played the challenging role of a man who goes through extreme transitions in his life as life’s complexities make him evolve as a person.
His debut film was Na Maloom Afraad, where he played the character of Farhan. His successful trajectory as a film actor continued with his performances in films such as Actor in Law, Jawani Phir Nahi Ani 2, Load Wedding, and Quaid-e-Azam Zindabad.
Saba Qamar
A force to be reckoned with, Saba Qamar knows how to shine and mould in any role, whether it’s for the small or the silver screen. Saba Qamar has a long list of projects. Her most notable work on television includes her performance in the drama Maat, in which she played the role of Saman, an evil and demanding sister, aced to perfection by the actress.
Saba Qamar also played the role of Kanwal Baloch in Baaghi, in which she did absolute justice in depicting the real-life story of the complex life of a woman who was killed by her brother. Her other celebrated dramas include Cheekh and Fraud.
Saba continued to impress us with her versatile acting skills in the various films she did over the years. Saba’s debut film was Manto, where she played the character of Noor Jehan. Her road-comedy film Lahore Se Aagay also garnered appreciation from the audience. In her most recent offerings, Saba went on to do a challenging role in the film Kamli.
Humayun Saeed
The heartthrob of Pakistani entertainment, Humayun Saeed, has spearheaded numerous iconic projects, securing an unmatched level of acclaim and popularity within the country. He has been a part of several iconic dramas over the years, including him playing the character of Sarmad in the comedy-drama Ladies Park. Humayun Saeed has also been a part of the romantic project, Dil Lagi. His performance and his on-screen chemistry were praised by the audience in Bin Roye. Humayun also characterized the role of Danish in one of the most watched and talked about dramas, Meray Paas Tum Ho.
His career in films is equally impressive. He made his film debut in Inteha, which was directed by Samina Peerzada. He has also played the lead protagonist in Pakistan’s most successful films including Jawani Phir Nahi Ani, Punjab Nahi Jaungi, Jawani Phir Nahi Ani 2, as well as London Nahi Jaunga.
This brings us to the end of our list. Which of these stars’ journeys are you impressed by the most?
