Wahaj Ali’s latest television outing, Jinn Ki Shadi Unn Ki Shadi, a horror comedy currently on air, marks an unusual turn for an actor better known for his intense, dramatic roles. The series, in which Ali plays Ali, a failed actor whose good heart and determination drive the story, stands out in a television landscape rarely known for genre experimentation.
Speaking to Khaleej Times about his decision to take on a project outside the usual romantic-dramatic mould, Ali said, “I really don’t care if it’s a big banner project or not. After Tere Bin, everyone thinks I should just do those big projects. This drama was my choice. My strength was always playing different, performance-oriented characters. I just don’t want to be an actor who only does one kind of role and experiences only one kind of story.”
The 36-year-old actor, who has been working in television for nearly a decade, added that he looks for scripts that offer variety and depth. “I love this craft, and I want to explore and learn every day. And I really enjoy doing comedy. People have seen me in very serious characters, so I wanted to give them that freshness as well,” he said.
Jinn Ki Shadi Unn Ki Shadi, written by Saima Akram Chaudhry and directed by Ali Faizan, combines elements of fantasy, humour, and social satire. It airs on HUM TV and features an ensemble cast including Romaisa Khan, Sehar Khan and Arslan Naseer.
Ali’s comments come at a time when several leading television actors have voiced concerns about the limited variety of scripts available in Pakistan’s mainstream industry. His choice of a horror-comedy, a genre seldom explored on local television, reflects an effort to expand storytelling possibilities beyond formulaic romance and tragedy.
