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Actor reflects on industry gatekeeping, sudden stardom and the limited window for women to remain leading stars
Screengrab of NamrahShahid/Youtube
Actor Namra Shahid has spoken candidly about what she describes as the industry's narrow window for female actors, arguing that women in television often face a critical career crossroads by their mid-to-late thirties. "You reach your mid-30s or late-30s. By that time, you are either an established lead actor or you just end up doing side characters," she said during a recent interview, highlighting what she sees as the limited opportunities available to women seeking substantial leading roles later in their careers. Reflecting on her decade-long journey in the entertainment industry, Namra said success in television is often shaped by factors beyond talent alone. While some actors spend years working their way up the ladder, others appear to secure leading roles almost overnight. "I have no idea how people suddenly arrive out of nowhere and instantly become the main lead of a serial," she said. "I've been working for ten years, so for me, it has been a very long journey." Also Read: Mahira Khan meets King Charles III at British Asian Trust gala in London The actor also pointed to a disconnect between a show's popularity and an individual performer's career growth, noting that appearing in a successful drama does not necessarily guarantee meaningful exposure. "These were the projects that you knew people would watch, but sometimes it also happens that your character doesn't hold that worth within the script or the drama," she explained while discussing some of her earlier projects. According to Namra, building a sustainable career requires more than strong performances. She stressed the importance of professional management, strategic planning and a reliable support system behind the scenes. Read More: Hajra Yamin on the blurring line between actors and content creators "Obviously, you need a team to keep a business running," she said. "If the cloth isn't even being made, what will I do with that factory?" Despite the challenges she outlined, Namra said she remains open to criticism and views public reviews as an important part of professional growth. "I actually like reviews. I didn't take it personally; I took it very positively," she said. "It pushes us to put in that extra hard work so that if someone gives a great performance, people absolutely must know the actor's name." The actor's reflections offered a glimpse into the realities of building a long-term career in television, from navigating industry dynamics and career progression to confronting the challenges female actors continue to face.
English (US) ·