How did you start your modeling career?
I started my career as a model for Ather Shahzad’s makeup show in 2002. I can still remember my first time like it happened yesterday; I had butterflies in my stomach before going on the runway. Little did I know then that this was the field that I will excel in and eventually make a career out of
What skills did you learn as a model that you incorporate in acting?
I believe that despite a lot of similarities between the two professions, the training of a model is totally different from the training of an actor. Each genre requires a different set of skills. Having said that, my experience as a model and having faced the camera many times shooting in TV commercials has given me an extra edge. Modelling has also projected my image and helped me establish myself as a brand.
EMMAD IRFANI TELLS MAHLIA lONE ABOUT HIS effortless TRANSITION FROM MODEL TO ACTOR
How does one pose for the perfect shot? Any pointers?
That depends on the particular situation, mood and character that is being portrayed.
You won Best Male Model at the Lux Style Awards 05. How did that help your career and which doors, if any, did that open for you?
It was great to see my work being rewarded in that manner and reach a status that is coveted. Even then I went and pursued a career in the corporate world working as senior marketing manager for a firm.
How did you transition into acting? Tell us about your experience acting in your first drama serial Asmanoo Pe Likha. How far has your acting prowess developed since then?
I was hoping you would ask me this. The story goes like this, having spent a decade working as a model and for three years at a desk job, I was at a crossroads in my life searching and asking myself what I wanted to do with my life. Where did I see myself in the next five years? What inspires me? While all this was going on, I reached a turning point in my life. In 2012, Asim Raza cast me as a lead for one of his commercials with a storyline about relationships and emotions. I needed a touch of inspiration and a tap of encouragement and it came in that way. From there on out, I started my quest to hone this beautiful craft. Deciding that I’m ready to face all the challenges to excel at this, by the grace of God, I’m glad I took this leap of faith as you only live once.
Currently I’m doing a project for Momina Duraid Productions, which is one of their premium projects. I play a powerful politician. I believe it will be the definitive project for me as an actor
Have you studied acting? How do you prepare for a role?
A lot of introspection and observation goes into preparing for a role. I believe it’s not about what you know, it’s about what you do with what you know. Knowledge is definitely powerful if acted upon. The preparation I do certainly has evolved with time. I research to develop my characters, each of whom have different motives and objectives from mine.
Do you get roles through your agent or are you approached directly? Do you read for them or are they written with you in mind?
Initially, I was just flattered to be offered a role. Over time one learns the factors to consider before taking up a role.
What are some factors you consider when accepting a role?
I look at the traits and attributes of a character, which should be believable and when portrayed by me, should be convincing. What makes me fall in love with a character is how much I can relate to it, whether it’s watching a character on screen or reading it and using my own imagination.
Tell us about your current and future projects?
Currently, I’m doing a project for Momina Duraid Productions, which is one of their premium projects. I play a powerful politician in it. I believe it will be the definitive project for me as an actor. Shahzad Kashmiri is the director and I have formed great camaraderie with him. InshAllah, I’m very confident and optimistic about this particular project.
Any funny on set incidents?
They happen from time to time. Yes work is fun but it’s also something very serious, so I try to bring as much positivity and fun to the table for the team.
Crazy fan/groupie stories?
Thankfully no. I just call it an occupational hazard.
Tell us about your family life.
I’m a very family oriented person. My wife and my son are the reason where I am today and the source of my strength and resolve, as are my parents. They were supportive of me when I started as a model.
How do you relax in your downtime?
I’m quite a music junkie. I like to listen to and sing along with classics by Queen, Guns n Roses and Bon Jovi. Haha!
What is your workout and diet regime?
I am quite disciplined. Just like eating and sleeping, exercise is of equal importance, combined with a clean diet. That is the only way of achieving optimal fitness and a strong mindset.
Message to your fans?
Go out there and make some mistakes. Mistakes come from doing, but so does success. Don’t be discouraged by failures. Write your own script, be the hero of your own story, take responsibility and define yourself. Make your life count.
Direction & Photography:Â Mohsin Khawar
Hair & Grooming by:Â Zahid Mehmood @ Toni GuyÂ
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