Emerging Pakistani theatre and showbiz actress Shiza Hashmi has revealed the challenges she faces in the television industry, citing favoritism and a powerful lobbying system that often sidelines newcomers.
During a recent appearance on a private TV channel program, Hashmi described how producers and production houses call actors to their offices but waste their time without offering work. She said, “When you contact them for work, they hand you numbers of low-level staff who only give importance to candidates with wealthy or influential backgrounds.”
The actress added that the industry is dominated by a few families, making it difficult for newcomers to break through. “I am a skilled artist, which is why I have done TV commercials with reputable multinational brands, but these people offer dinners and lunches, not actual work,” she said.
Hashmi also highlighted that many in the industry remain silent due to fear, but she stated, “I have no fear and I am speaking out.”