Casting couch: Zhalay Sarhadi says she was asked to sleep for role

KARACHI: Popular actress Zhalay Sarhadi has claimed that the casting couch is a harsh reality in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, with many newbie actresses being propositioned for roles in exchange for sexual favours.

Speaking on Ahmed Ali Butt’s podcast, the Jalaibee star opened up about facing a similar situation during the early days of her career. She recalled a director who indirectly offered her a role on the condition that she comply with what “other actresses do – they just sleep with him.”

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Sarhadi said the remark left her stunned. “I told him straight up – I’m in showbiz to fund my education. Try saying that again, and I’ll slap you,” she recounted.

She added that the same director had previously rejected her for a role, claiming she was “too tall,” even though her height had no relevance to the part.

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Zhalay chose not to name the director but revealed that he was two inches shorter than her and is still active in the industry today.

Producer invited me to his bed’: Hafsa Butt

Zhalay Sarhadi’s comments on the casting couch and inappropriate demands faced by women entering the entertainment industry came just days after fellow actress Hafsa Butt also spoke out about her own disturbing experiences.

During an appearance on FHM Pakistan’s podcast, Hafsa Butt revealed that early in her career, a producer offered her a lead role in exchange for a sexual favour.

“He told me I should be on his bed,” she said, recalling how the shocking message came through a WhatsApp voice note after he had discussed a drama project with her.

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Hafsa Butt went on to share that when she confided in others within the industry, her concerns were largely dismissed.

“I was told this happens to everyone,” she said. “But I had shared it hoping someone would take action.”

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She added that the producer later tried to backtrack, claiming his words were not meant to be taken seriously, a justification she found completely unconvincing.

Like Zhalay Sarhadi, Hafsa Butt chose not to reveal the identity of the producer involved.