KARACHI: Pakistani actors Aliya Ali and Tipu Sharif have opened up about a common challenge faced by television performers — audiences often struggle to separate actors from the characters they portray on screen.
The stars of the popular drama Bas Tera Saath Ho recently shared personal experiences highlighting how viewers frequently associate them with their fictional roles, particularly when those characters are controversial or negative.
Fans Often Confuse Fiction with Reality
During a recent interview, Aliya Ali recalled an encounter with fans at a shopping mall where viewers openly expressed their dislike for her character in the drama.
“They told me they hated my character,” Aliya said with a smile.
According to the actor, the fans explained that her performance was so convincing that they had started disliking the character she portrayed.
While such reactions can be surprising, Aliya believes they are also a sign that the audience is emotionally invested in the story.
Tipu Sharif Shares Similar Experience
Fellow actor Tipu Sharif revealed that he has experienced similar situations.
Speaking about an incident at the premiere of Zombeid, he said he accidentally bumped into a woman and caused her popcorn to spill.
Instead of reacting angrily, the woman jokingly addressed him by the name of his character.
“She told me, ‘That’s okay, Ansa’s brother, don’t harm her,’” Tipu recalled.
The actor laughed while reflecting on the moment, saying it demonstrated how deeply viewers connect actors with the roles they play.
“They really associate you with your character,” he added.
The Challenge of Playing Controversial Roles
Aliya acknowledged that while audience reactions validate an actor’s performance, playing negative or controversial characters can also be emotionally challenging.
“It’s scary doing controversial roles because you want to make sure you are doing amazing acting but that fans can also differentiate between you and your character,” she explained.
The actor noted that performers often worry about being judged personally for the actions of fictional characters they portray on screen.
Bringing Complex Characters to Life
Both actors agreed that portraying toxic or morally complex personalities requires careful preparation and interpretation.
“When you’re not playing a positive role, there is only so much you can do,” Tipu said.
“When doing a toxic one, you can take it in so many directions.”
Aliya echoed his views, explaining that such roles require a deeper understanding of the character’s motivations and emotional layers.
She added that selecting these projects often involves detailed script analysis and extensive preparation.
Learning from Industry Veterans
Aliya also reflected on lessons she learned from veteran actor Rubina Ashraf.
According to Aliya, she previously focused heavily on her appearance and worried about looking perfect on screen.
However, Rubina encouraged her to prioritize performance over physical appearance.
“Character is seen through acting,” Aliya recalled being told.
The advice helped shift her perspective and allowed her to focus more on delivering authentic performances rather than maintaining a glamorous image in every scene.
Success Depends on More Than Talent
Discussing career growth in the entertainment industry, Aliya acknowledged that success is not always directly linked to hard work alone.
She pointed out that many factors influence whether a project becomes successful, including direction, publicity, timing, and audience reception.
“Sometimes when you do a big character or a good one, it won’t be a hit,” she said.
The actor emphasized that while performers should always give their best effort, the final outcome is often beyond their control.
“My faith is that I will get fame if it is meant to be. If not, it won’t happen,” she added.
Industry Bias Toward Lead Actors
Tipu Sharif also highlighted what he described as a structural imbalance within the entertainment industry.
According to him, lead actors often receive significantly more recognition and privileges than supporting cast members.
“We glamorise leads which makes all of us want to be the lead,” he said.
He noted that supporting actors frequently do not receive the same treatment or opportunities despite making valuable contributions to productions.
However, Tipu believes the industry is slowly evolving.
Rise of Ensemble Storytelling
The actor praised the growing popularity of ensemble casts in international entertainment industries.
He pointed to successful examples from both Hollywood and South Asian cinema where supporting characters have become equally important to storytelling.
Tipu referenced Nawazuddin Siddiqui as an example of an actor who achieved success despite not fitting traditional lead-actor expectations.
“People close their doors to this. You never know what can happen,” he said.
Respect for Everyone Behind the Camera
Both actors stressed the importance of respecting every individual involved in a production.
Tipu highlighted the contributions of technicians, crew members, and other behind-the-scenes professionals who play crucial roles in bringing stories to life.
“Actors are sensitive. But we should also give respect to technicians no matter who someone is,” he said.
Aliya added that supporting actors often receive fewer opportunities to perfect their performances compared to lead stars.
“Lead characters are given 10 or 15 takes until the scene is done, but other artists get just one take,” she observed.
A Lesson for Aspiring Actors
Concluding the discussion, Tipu Sharif offered advice to aspiring performers entering the entertainment industry.
“Observe, look, listen, and ask questions,” he said.
For Aliya Ali and Tipu Sharif, acting is not simply about fame or recognition. Instead, they view it as a continuous journey of learning, perseverance, and staying grounded in an industry where admiration and illusion often exist side by side.
