Emmad Irfani has always been more than just a familiar face in the industry. With a career that has spanned fashion, television, and film, he’s built his legacy with a quiet confidence, never chasing the noise but always delivering performances that linger. After taking a step back from television to dedicate nearly four years to a film with Shoaib Mansoor, Emmad made a striking return with Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum—a project that became an unexpected phenomenon. The show not only reintroduced him to a new generation of audiences but also marked a turning point in his journey as an actor.
In conversation with HELLO! Pakistan, Emmad speaks candidly about this chapter of his career, his deep-rooted connection to literature and music, and the delicate balance between staying true to his craft while navigating an industry that often prioritizes image over substance. He reflects on the lessons learned, the challenges of reinvention, and why, at this stage, his approach to work is shaped by experience rather than expectation.
From his thoughts on Aasmaan Bolay Ga to the personal philosophies that guide him, Emmad Irfani offers an insight into the mind of an artist who has always let his work speak for itself.
Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum became a cultural phenomenon. How has its success influenced your career trajectory and personal growth?
First of all, thank you for holding Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum in such high regard. It feels great to be part of something that became what it did. As for its impact on me—I believe it has been a resurrection for my career as an actor. For almost four years, I hadn’t taken on any television projects because I had dedicated myself to working on a feature film with Shoaib Mansoor sahib. Personal growth is a never-ending process, and where I stand today is a result of hard work, vision, and a constant effort to improve as both a person and a professional.
For almost four years, I didn’t do television—I dedicated myself to a film with Shoaib Mansoor. Sometimes, things don’t go as planned, but I still hope it sees the light of day.
Fans have been eagerly awaiting Aasmaan Bolay Ga since its announcement in 2022. Could you share any updates on its release and what audiences can expect from this collaboration with Shoaib Mansoor?
Only Shoaib Mansoor sahib can provide an official update. I did dedicate nearly four years to the project, but sometimes things don’t unfold as planned. Hopefully, one day, it will see the light of day.
I believe Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum was a resurrection for my career. None of us knew we were making history—it just happened
It’s intriguing to learn about your connection to Allama Iqbal. How has this heritage influenced your personal philosophy and artistic choices?
Bang-e-Dra by Iqbal sahib was the first book I completed at the age of seven, so his philosophy naturally had an influence on me. Coming from a family that has been deeply engaged with Iqbal’s work and being related to the national poet has always been a source of pride and honor for me.
Many know you as an actor, but few are aware of your love for cricket, fitness, and music legends like Bon Jovi and Queen. How do these passions shape your daily life and well-being?
As an actor, you often find yourself at your most vulnerable—reflecting on where you’ve been, where you are, and where you’re headed. Music, sports, and fitness have always been crucial in shaping my mindset. Who I look up to, my music taste, the films I love—all of these play a part in the way I approach my craft. I’ve been fortunate to have these influences, and they have undoubtedly shaped me into the person I am today.
You can’t let adulation go to your head, and you can’t let criticism get to your heart. If you choose to be in the public eye, you have to carry that responsibility
You’ve mentioned the double-edged sword of being recognized for your looks in the industry. How do you navigate this perception while striving to showcase depth and authenticity in your roles?
In this line of work, there will always be opinions and perceptions. All I can do is work hard and strive to be the best version of myself.
In today’s digital age, maintaining an air of mystery as a public figure is challenging. How do you balance personal privacy with the demands of social media and fan engagement?
I belong to the school of thought that believes entertainers, especially actors, should maintain some level of enigma. However, with the way trends have evolved, it’s necessary to adapt. I try to strike a balance—using social media as a powerful tool to showcase my work and brand while ensuring it doesn’t take over my personal space.
As an actor, you’re constantly vulnerable—where you’ve been, where you are, where you’re going. Your influences shape you, and I’ve been lucky to have great ones.
If given unlimited resources and the freedom to choose any co-stars, which actors would you collaborate with, and what genre or story would you envision for this dream project?
I’d dedicate this answer to the Kabhi Main Kabhi Tum team. During the process, none of us knew that we were making something historic—that it would become so widely loved and bring so much joy to people. So why not all of us again? Shooting it was one of the most memorable experiences of my career.
There’s no substitute for hard work. When you take the road less traveled, there will be demons—internal and external. The key is figuring out your why.
Life in the spotlight comes with its share of challenges. What personal practices or routines help you stay grounded and resilient during tough times?
You can’t let adulation go to your head or criticism to your heart. When you’re in a field that demands public attention, responsibility and scrutiny come with it. Having a strong sense of reality and a good support system has been beneficial for me. Other than that, disciplines like exercise help keep me on track.
I come from a family obsessed with Iqbal’s work. I grew up with it, and that influence has shaped my outlook on life and art.
Beyond acting and modeling, are there any hidden talents or hobbies you’re passionate about that might surprise your fans?
(Laughs) Let’s keep some mystery alive.
I believe in maintaining an air of mystery, but social media has changed the game. It’s about finding a balance—using it as a tool without letting it define you
Having navigated the highs and lows of the entertainment industry, what advice would you offer to emerging artists striving to make their mark?
There is no substitute for hard work and the right attitude. When you take the road less traveled, you will face internal and external challenges. At that point, you have to figure out your why. Once you have the right mindset, every challenge becomes an opportunity.
The most unexpected message I ever received? Shoaib Mansoor on WhatsApp, asking me to be the lead in his film.
Rapid Fire
● A role you wish you had played?
James Bond
● A director you’d love to work with?
Bryan Singer
The industry will always have perceptions, but I focus on one thing—being the best version of myself
● Three things always in your bag/car?
Wallet, gym bag, water
● If you weren’t an actor, what would you be doing?
Some other form of entertainment
● A song that always gets you hyped?
Summer of ‘69 by Bryan Adams
● One fashion trend you refuse to follow?
Coloured socks
● If you could time travel, where and when would you go?
1985, on the sets of Back to the Future
● Most unexpected DM you’ve ever received?
Shoaib sb (on WhatsApp) asking me to be the lead in his movie on 27.7.2020
● A guilty pleasure movie or TV show?
(Laughs) I’d rather not say.
● The most surprising thing about you that people don’t know?
I think there’s still a lot to uncover.
Interview: Sundus Unsar Raja
Styling: Rao Ali Khan
Photography: Hasan Hashmie
Hair & Makeup: Javed Anwar