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Adnan Shah Tipu, a familiar face in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, sat down with BBC Urdu to reflect on his 25-year journey. Known for his dynamic performances, Tipu has carved a niche for himself as a character actor, yet, he believes the industry’s preference for appearance over skill remains a significant barrier for real talent to flourish.

During the interview, Tipu explained that he doesn’t mind whether his characters are part of the narrative for a shorter or longer period as long as they resonate with him. “For me, whether a character is one page long or 10 pages long, if he’s making sense to me it’s a challenge, and if through him I can bring some positive change in society, then why not?” he said.

‘By our standards, DeNiro and Pacino would quit’

The In Flames actor also reflected on his career as a character actor, lamenting that the Pakistani entertainment industry has yet to shift focus towards character-driven films and shows. “I’ve always considered myself a hero, whether I’m playing the leading role or the supporting role. The quality of work makes you a hero or a zero,” he asserted.

Highlighting how different the situation is globally, pointing to the success of actors like Nawazuddin Siddiqui in India, he said, “In India, someone like Nawazuddin will get the leading role because the film revolves around the character, not his appearance. Over here, even if they make a film like that, they will cast someone who doesn’t fit the role to play that role.”

Tipu did not shy away from expressing his frustration over the Pakistani entertainment industry’s fixation with appearance and social media following. He said, “If, in the world, people started casting actors based on our standards and based on their following, actors like Robert De Niro and Al Pacino would quit.”

The veteran also pointed out another problem that limits the kind of actors that can thrive in the Pakistani showbiz. “The kind of stories we are focusing on, we will never have the kind of diversity required to cast a range of actors,” he said, emphasising the need for nuanced storytelling that allows talented but unconventional actors to take centre stage.

He praised filmmakers such as Kashif Nisar for breaking this mould with bold casting choices, such as selecting Ehteshamuddin in the lead role in Kabuli Pulao.

Switching off the villain

The conversation also explored the impact of playing dark characters. Tipu acknowledged the toll that repeated villainous roles can take on an actor’s mental health. “Yes, it affects you, but you need to remember that you’re only acting. When you come home and look at your wife and kids — that’s your reality check.”

He emphasised the importance of learning to “switch on and switch off” to prevent emotional burnout.

When asked about getting real-life backlash for reel-life characters, Tipu admitted to receiving a lot of hate comments online. He also shared a shocking incident.

“I was on a bike with my daughter when a man stopped me and told me I deserved whatever was happening to my character in the drama,” Tipu revealed, adding that such reactions should be taken as a compliment. “I feel that if this happens to you, it means as an actor, you’ve done a great job.”

Refusing to be typecast

Tipu’s journey has not been without challenges. He opened up about the struggle to secure serious roles, despite his critically acclaimed performance in Khamosh Pani.

Since he also did Sub Set Hai, he received 36 sitcom offers, all of which he had to turn down to secure a role of his choice. “I had to stay hungry for two years because I didn’t want to be restricted to one style or genre.”

For Tipu, versatility is the essence of being an actor. “Comedy allows me to experiment and lighten the mood, while serious roles give me the space to explore emotions deeply. It’s important to keep growing and challenging yourself. What’s the point otherwise?”

The road ahead

Despite the difficulties, Tipu remains hopeful about change. He noted his recent leading role in the film 13 as a sign of progress, though not at the pace he would like. “Things are changing, but not to the extent that we’d like. Everywhere in the world right now, the focus has shifted to being character-focused.”