Pakistani theatre director Dawar Mehmood’s highly critical remarks regarding the physical appearance and grooming of theatre actors, specifically those from Karachi, have drawn strong reactions.
Mehmood sparked intense public debate after he, during a recent podcast, said that while acting skills are important, the camera demands presentability, asserting that many “Karachi-based actors have dirty teeth and dirty faces” and fail to transition to television because they refuse to groom themselves.
He doubled down by stating that these performers remain limited to minor, stereotyped roles like thieves, pickpockets or beggars because they lack the necessary on-screen aesthetic.
The director’s unfiltered commentary immediately triggered polarising reactions across social media platforms, leaving netizens divided.
While critics fiercely defended the artistic integrity of stage performers, arguing that true talent should always outshine superficial beauty standards, a significant portion of the audience also agreed with Mehmood.
One user slammed his perspective, calling him a “foolish man”, while another challenged his professional credibility by writing, “You are just a money maker, not an artist.”
Some also pointed out that theatre requires an actor to perform with their entire body, whereas television relies heavily on just facial presentation. Many felt his harsh words were unnecessarily disrespectful toward hardworking professionals.
Those who sprung to action to support the director, viewed his critique as an uncomfortable truth about the entertainment industry. Supporters rallied behind him, with comments stating he was “spitting facts” and that even some established actors lacked grooming and personality.
“He spoke too much truth,” wrote one as the discussion also veered into personal grievances with some users calling Mehmood out directly to “pay his workers after getting the work done instead of running away with the money”.
