Web Desk: Actor Saqib Sumeer has offered a glimpse into the financial side of Tamasha, revealing that contestants on the popular reality show receive weekly payments that can differ substantially depending on their experience and standing in the entertainment industry.
Sumeer discussed the matter after leaving the show during an interview with Navid Azhar for Runway Pakistan. His comments have sparked interest among viewers curious about what contestants receive while competing on the programme.
Sumeer said contestants are compensated for the time they spend on Tamasha, but the production does not follow a single payment rate for everyone.
Instead, he explained that the amount is determined on an individual basis. Established performers, newcomers and senior artists can negotiate different deals based on their professional reputation, experience and popularity.
He compared the system with the entertainment industry’s broader payment practices, where actors generally receive different remuneration for television projects depending on their career profile.
Speaking about his own arrangement, Sumeer indicated that he entered the reality show after securing the compensation he had sought.
He said he received the fee he requested and consequently had no grievances regarding his financial agreement with the programme.
The revelation provides an uncommon look at the business arrangements behind reality television, where contestants remain on the show for varying lengths of time and their earnings can therefore depend partly on how long they survive in the competition.
Sumeer has established himself as a character actor after beginning his professional journey at the National Academy of Performing Arts (NAPA).
Over the years, he has appeared in a range of Pakistani television productions, including Jhok Sarkar, Khuda Aur Mohabbat, Dumpukht, Raqeeb Se, Gentleman and Stand Up Girl. He has also earned recognition for his work in Aik Mohabbat Aur and his appearance on Tamasha.
Since his elimination, Sumeer has been speaking publicly about his experience on the reality show and sharing details about life inside the competition.
His latest remarks have now drawn attention to a lesser-known aspect of Tamasha the differing financial arrangements made with its contestants.
Read more: Hania Aamir hits back at Jia Ali’s ‘out of control’ remarks
