Web Desk: Veteran Pakistani actor Firdous Jamal has opened up about his reported ban by Hum TV and the controversial interviews that have repeatedly put him in the spotlight.
The senior actor, who has appeared in numerous popular television and film projects, discussed both issues during an appearance on Ambreen Fatima’s YouTube show.
Addressing his reported lifetime ban by Hum TV, Jamal said he did not consider the decision a personal loss.
“If Hum TV has banned me, it’s their loss, not mine,” he said, arguing that an actor’s livelihood ultimately depends on God rather than any individual television executive.
Jamal said actors spend years learning their craft and building their careers, adding that he considers himself a hardworking performer who has dedicated his life to acting.
He also maintained that his comments about fellow actors are focused on their professional work rather than their personalities.
According to Jamal, criticism of an actor’s craft should not be confused with a personal attack.
The veteran actor also reflected on his appearances on podcasts, where his remarks about fellow celebrities have frequently generated controversy.
Jamal said he was previously unaware that some podcasters deliberately pursued controversial subjects during interviews.
“I was unaware of the fact that these podcasters dig into controversy,” he said, adding that he has now begun to understand the strategy behind such questioning.
The actor described himself as a straightforward person who prefers speaking about acting and discussing the craft rather than creating controversy.
Jamal said he believes podcasters increasingly focus on controversial subjects because such content attracts greater public attention.
He argued that discussions about the technical aspects of acting may not generate the same level of interest as provocative comments about other celebrities.
The veteran actor said he prefers to remain focused on acting and described honesty as an important principle throughout his career.
Jamal is regarded as one of Pakistan’s veteran performers, with a career spanning television, film and theatre.
His credits include popular dramas such as Pyare Afzal, Khuda Aur Mohabbat, Waris, Manchalay Ka Sauda, Dehleez, Dhoop Deewar, Takmeel, Kaanch Kay Par, Anna and Nashaib, among numerous other projects.
His candid comments in interviews have often sparked discussion on social media, particularly when he weighs in on the performances or careers of other prominent actors.
In his latest appearance, however, Jamal suggested that he has become more cautious about the nature of podcast interviews and now better understands how controversial remarks can become the main focus of an appearance.
Read more: Firdous Jamal takes U-Turn on earlier remarks about Shah Rukh Khan