Pakistani film and television actor and director Shan Shahid has shared his views on the growing trend of social media influencers and digital creators entering mainstream showbiz.
Speaking during a recent podcast, Shan said popularity alone should not be mistaken for long-term success, stressing the importance of learning the craft and receiving proper training.
Asked about the casting of new faces and social media creators in films and television projects, Shan said he has no concern over who producers choose to include in their projects. According to him, creators are free to make their own decisions.
Taking a sarcastic tone, he remarked, “Your camera, your circus! Do whatever you want. I can’t say anything; I have no control over it.”
However, Shan also emphasized that sudden fame does not necessarily translate into a sustainable career. He said the initial wave of popularity gained through social media can be extremely powerful, but without genuine talent and proper training, such fame may not last.
According to the veteran actor, overnight popularity can provide temporary recognition, but the momentum eventually fades if it is not supported by artistic ability and dedication.
Shan described the pursuit of instant success as one of the major challenges facing the entertainment industry. He noted that when people achieve popularity without first learning the fundamentals of their craft, sustaining a long-term career can become difficult.
He cited legendary Pakistani singers Mehdi Hassan and Noor Jehan as examples of artists whose work continues to resonate decades later because they underwent extensive training and developed a deep understanding of music, melody and classical traditions.
The gap between social media fame and traditional showbiz in Pakistan is also narrowing, with several digital creators moving from online platforms to television dramas and films.
Among them is popular YouTuber Rajab Butt, who is set to make his big-screen debut alongside actress Amar Khan in an upcoming Pakistani film. The film is being directed by Syed Faisal Bukhari, with the screenplay written by Sarmad Ibrahim.