July 30, 2026
Islamabad: A recent controversy over the treatment of senior actors in Pakistan’s television industry has sparked widespread debate on social media. After veteran actor Muhammad Ahmed spoke about the behavior of a younger colleague, Federal Minister for Information Atta Tarar proposed the creation of a special mentorship program or advisory council to promote professionalism and respect within the entertainment industry.
Atta Tarar Proposes Mentorship Program
In a post on social media platform X, Atta Tarar described the incident involving Muhammad Ahmed as unfortunate, saying it highlighted the need for structured guidance for emerging actors.
He suggested establishing a mentorship program or council comprising senior artists to educate newcomers about professional ethics, respect for senior colleagues, and appropriate on-set conduct. Tarar also announced plans to convene a meeting with members of the entertainment industry to discuss the proposal.
What Did Muhammad Ahmed Say?
Speaking during a podcast, veteran actor Muhammad Ahmed revealed that he had once offered constructive advice to a young actor to help improve his performance. However, after achieving success, the same actor allegedly began treating him disrespectfully.
He also recalled an incident on the set of a television drama where he became uncomfortable after being the subject of a joke. Although he chose not to react at the time, he later said the experience reflected a broader issue of declining respect for senior artists.
Viral Video Intensifies the Controversy
The debate gained momentum after a video surfaced on social media showing actor Fahad Sheikh and several other cast members interacting with Muhammad Ahmed in what appeared to be a lighthearted moment during the filming of a drama.
In the clip, Fahad Sheikh approaches Muhammad Ahmed with a hairdryer and jokingly asks, "How should I style your hair? Should I part it on one side?” Another person can be heard suggesting, "No, make a center part.”
The video quickly went viral, with some social media users describing it as disrespectful toward a senior actor, while others argued it reflected the friendly atmosphere often found on television sets.
Fahad Sheikh Issues Clarification and Public Apology
Following the growing criticism, Fahad Sheikh released a statement on Instagram, saying the viral clip had been taken out of context.
He publicly apologized to Muhammad Ahmed and said the edited video had created a misleading impression that he had bullied or humiliated the veteran actor. According to Fahad Sheikh, the clip had been selectively edited, resulting in widespread misunderstandings.
He also announced plans to pursue legal action against those responsible for circulating the edited version of the video.
In his statement, Fahad Sheikh wrote:
"Incomplete stories are always dangerous because they present only one side of the picture. What is being described as bullying was never the reality. On a drama set, we are not just colleagues—we are like family. We laugh together, eat together, and support one another through good and difficult times.”
Muhammad Ahmed Maintains His Position
Despite the apology, Muhammad Ahmed later told the media that the issue extended beyond a single incident.
According to him, younger actors should understand that there are boundaries when interacting or joking with senior colleagues. He also criticized the practice of recording videos without a person’s consent and later sharing them on social media, calling it unethical and harmful because it can unnecessarily involve innocent people in public controversies.
Social Media Remains Divided
The controversy has divided social media users into two camps. One group has expressed support for Muhammad Ahmed, emphasizing the importance of respecting senior artists and preserving professional values within the entertainment industry.
Another group believes Fahad Sheikh’s public apology should be accepted and the matter should be considered resolved.
Several social media users also began naming different young actors without evidence, prompting many artists to urge the public to avoid spreading rumors or making unverified accusations.
A Broader Debate About Professional Ethics
The incident has evolved beyond a disagreement between two actors and has reignited discussion within Pakistan’s entertainment industry about professional ethics, respect for senior performers, appropriate behavior on drama sets, and the responsible use of social media.
The debate has also highlighted the importance of maintaining healthy workplace relationships while ensuring that humor and informal interactions never cross the boundaries of professionalism and mutual respect.
