He spent nearly six to seven years endorsing brands with a stream of television commercials....
US TALK
Model turned actor Shoaib Hassan is undoubtedly the new raging sensation who made his acting debut in a big way with a movie called Doda, which followed the story of a former boxer hailing from a small town, his struggles, and how he survived, overcame his past, and made a name for himself. Shoaib is the younger brother of famous model Zohaib Hassan, who inspired him to step into the fashion industry and find a place to stand out and prove himself. He spent nearly six to seven years endorsing brands with a stream of television commercials.
Shoaib also worked in a music video where his acting potential made the directorial team realize that he could be the main lead of their upcoming movie Doda, and that is how he made a smooth transition to acting. He is currently working in the drama serial Shiddat; in its second episode, his scenes opposite Anmol Baloch were highly applauded for his innocence, charming looks, and being so candid and real. In serials Mere Sapne and Nadan Dil, the young actor is showing his versatility, and a telefilm shot in Thar Desert is something he claims to be one of the most challenging projects [of his career so far].
Us: What does success mean to you?
Shoaib Hassan: Being honest to your work.
Us: What is something you learned early in your career which helped you become a better actor?
SH: Be nice to everybody and respect the space of each individual around you.
Us: What is the most challenging thing about this career?
SH: In modelling, it’s all about maintaining your fitness and maintaining your physique, whereas acting invites a wholesome menu, offering versatility, understanding your character, and expressions.
Us: Did you get any formal education for acting?
SH: I have been an ardent fan of watching Bollywood flicks and that’s how I learnt and developed my acting skills.
Us: Who are some of your role models and what do you like about their work?
SH: My brother Zohaib Hassan inspired me as a model for being so professional, and in movies, I find Leonardo DiCaprio truly an icon for being so loyal and honest to his work.
Us: From all your roles so far, which role was the most meaningful to you, and why?
SH: In fashion it was Karachi Fashion Week which helped me register myself as a model, while in acting, my film Doda and the serial Shiddat brought me the recognition that I have been waiting for.
Us: Do you believe good looks and connections are the only things that make a star?
SH: Good looks really work here and things become a lot easier to initially in one’s career. Then, to sustain and continue your winning streak unabated, one needs to show sincerity and professionalism.
Us: How has social media changed things for you?
SH: It has a massive contribution in my life and I got a lot of work directly from the clients without any hiccups. To get early feedback regarding your work, social media’s role is undeniable.
Us: How do you deal with self-doubt?
SH: When I was doing Doda, I wasn’t sure I would be able to do it, as it was my first attempt at acting. I remember I couldn’t sleep the whole night before the first day of the shoot. But then I told myself that I was capable of doing it, and getting into acting through cinema is the kind of privilege that comes to only the blessed ones. So that is how I overcome my doubts.
Us: Please share three pieces of advice for aspiring models and actors.
SH: To models, I would suggest following a good fitness regimen. For actors, improving their acting skills, expressions, and complete understanding of characters is the master key.
Birthday and zodiac sign
30th December, Capricorn.
The best thing about being a teenager was
A carefree life.
The worst thing about being a teenager was
Finding everybody being bossy.
I was always listening to
My heart.
My favourite model was
John Abraham.
My favourite singer was
Hari-Haram.
My favourite superhero was
Hugh Jackman, Wolverine.
My favourite movie was
Kaho Naa… Pyaar Hai.
My closet was full of
Gym wear.
My friends were
I don’t have friends.
What used to hurt me the most was
Anything hurting my self-respect and being ignored.
I wish I had known then
Not to trust anybody in haste.
Relations with family were
Strong.
My favourite subject was
Mathematics.
My least favourite subject was
Urdu.
I couldn’t stand
Liars and hypocrites.
My favourite food was
In my teens, it was fast food.
My favourite hangout was
Chai dhabas.
My favourite sport was
Cricket.
