Veteran actor Faisal Rehman has raised serious concerns about the current state of the television industry, stating that Pakistani dramas lack originality, which is why they have failed to gain meaningful recognition on global platforms. His candid remarks have sparked renewed debate about storytelling, creative freedom, and the future direction of local content.
Speaking about his long absence from television, Faisal Rehman made it clear that his priorities have changed. Rather than making a traditional comeback, he says he has shifted his focus to social media, where he feels more creatively fulfilled and independent.
Why Faisal Rehman Stepped Away from Television
Faisal Rehman revealed that after returning to television with a serial following a 10-year break, he quickly realized that the roles being offered did not allow him to grow as an actor. According to him, the characters lacked depth and offered no room for performance.
He openly questioned the creative limitations of stereotypical roles, particularly those assigned to senior actors. What can an ‘Abbu’ character really do? he asked, explaining that without a strong script, layered character, and capable director, an actor’s talent is wasted.
This frustration highlights a broader issue—Pakistani dramas lack originality not only in storylines but also in character development.
The Creative Crisis in Pakistani Dramas
Faisal Rehman believes that while content is being produced regularly, it often feels repetitive and uninspired. He argues that the industry relies heavily on familiar formulas instead of experimenting with bold narratives or unique perspectives.
According to him, actors are expected to fit into predefined molds, leaving little space for innovation or performance-driven storytelling. This environment, he says, discourages serious artists who want to challenge themselves creatively.
His comments echo a growing sentiment within the entertainment community that Pakistani dramas lack originality because writers and producers are hesitant to move beyond safe, predictable themes.
Why Pakistani Dramas Struggle on Netflix
One of Faisal Rehman’s most striking observations was about the absence of Pakistani dramas on platforms like Netflix. He acknowledged that Pakistan’s entertainment industry is relatively small, but size alone is not the real issue.
The bigger problem, he argued, is that many local dramas appear to imitate Indian cultural narratives rather than developing a distinct identity. Netflix already has an abundance of Indian content, making it difficult for Pakistani productions to stand out when they lack originality or professional polish.
Without strong storytelling and international production standards, Faisal Rehman believes Pakistani dramas lack originality needed to compete on global streaming platforms.
Actor, Not a Planner
Another important point Faisal Rehman made was about the unrealistic expectations placed on actors. He emphasized that actors should not be forced to plan their own careers or create opportunities for themselves beyond their craft.
“I am an actor, not a producer,” he said, stressing that it is the responsibility of writers and directors to bring compelling stories to the table. Without meaningful roles, even experienced performers are left with limited options.
This imbalance further contributes to why Pakistani dramas lack originality, as creative responsibility is often misplaced or diluted.
The Need for Strong Stories and Direction
At the heart of Faisal Rehman’s criticism is the absence of powerful storytelling. He believes that strong characters emerge only when scripts are written with intention and depth, supported by capable direction.
Innovation, according to him, does not require massive budgets—it requires courage to tell new stories. Until the industry prioritizes originality over ratings-driven formulas, Pakistani dramas lack originality will remain a recurring criticism.
A Wake-Up Call for the Industry
Faisal Rehman’s statements should be seen as constructive criticism rather than negativity. As someone with decades of experience, his insights reflect a genuine concern for the future of Pakistani television.
If local creators want international recognition and platforms like Netflix to take interest, they must invest in fresh narratives, professional execution, and authentic cultural storytelling.
Faisal Rehman’s honest assessment sheds light on why Pakistani dramas lack originality and struggle to compete globally. His refusal to settle for shallow roles sends a strong message about artistic integrity and creative responsibility.
As audiences evolve and global standards rise, the Pakistani drama industry faces a clear choice: continue repeating familiar formulas or embrace innovation and storytelling excellence. The future of Pakistani content depends on that decision.
