9 Pakistani Stars Who Climbed from Supporting Roles to Lead Roles Successfully
The world of drama and film is not easy to conquer. The Pakistani entertainment industry, much like Bollywood or
The world of drama and film is not easy to conquer. The Pakistani entertainment industry, much like Bollywood or Hollywood, has long been criticized for its strict hierarchy. Many Pakistani stars are often typecast early in their careers once an actor plays a villain, they get similar roles again and again; if someone shines in comedy, they rarely get a serious character. Supporting actors are often stuck in secondary roles, no matter how much talent they display.
Yet, every now and then, someone breaks this system. They work hard, wait for that one defining role, and then shine so brightly that they move from the shadows into the spotlight. This article celebrates nine rising Pakistani stars who successfully made the leap from supporting characters to beloved leads. Each of these names represents resilience, talent, and the ability to win over audiences with unforgettable performances.
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Ali Raza – From Model to Household Name
Ali Raza is one of the most promising Pakistani stars. Starting his career in the world of modelling, Ali always carried a dream of acting. His sharp looks and commanding screen presence helped him secure small supporting roles in popular dramas. But it wasn’t until he appeared in Mohabbat Gumshuda Meri that audiences began to notice his spark.
His role in Noor Jahan further proved his potential, while his short appearance in Duniyapur showcased his ability to leave an impression even in limited screen time. However, his career-changing moment came with Iqtidar, where he played the ambitious politician Shahnawaz Shah. The performance was so convincing that audiences could no longer see him as just a supporting actor.
Today, Ali Raza has become a heartthrob, with fans eagerly awaiting his next projects. His journey is proof that perseverance pays off, and he now enjoys a firm place among leading Pakistani stars loved by millions.
Nameer Khan – A Star in Just Two Projects
It takes most actors years of struggle to get noticed, but Nameer Khan rewrote that story. With his debut in Mein (2023) as Rayyan Jaffar, he showed a natural charm and confidence that caught viewers’ attention immediately. In his very second drama, Qarz e Jaan, Nameer played Ammar Bakhtiyar — a role that made him an overnight sensation.
His ability to portray emotions with subtlety, combined with his youthful energy, helped him rise faster than many others. The fact that he reached lead status in just two projects is a rare achievement in the Pakistani entertainment industry. His upcoming role in Main Manto Nahi Hoon has already built excitement, with fans counting days for his return.
Nameer Khan is now seen as one of the new-generation Pakistani stars who represent the fresh energy and passion of the industry.
Shuja Asad – The Fighter Who Refused to Give Up
Unlike some others who rose quickly, Shuja Asad had to struggle and face rejections before reaching success. For years, he auditioned for different roles, often being overlooked. But his persistence finally paid off with the role of Barlas Khan in Khaie, which turned him into a household name.
The audience loved his intensity and depth, and Shuja smartly used this success to take on more diverse characters. In Aye Ishq e Junoon and Tan Man Neelo Neel, he showed his range, proving he could handle romance, drama, and complexity with equal skill.
Now set to appear alongside Kubra Khan in an upcoming project, Shuja Asad has become one of the most promising Pakistani stars who climbed from supporting roles to the leading category through sheer dedication.
Momina Iqbal – The Dependable Actress
Among rising Pakistani stars, Momina Iqbal has built her reputation steadily since her debut in 2018. Unlike actors who rise overnight, Momina’s success came through years of persistence. She accepted challenging roles, faced tough competition, and gradually won over audiences.
Her natural elegance and relatable on-screen presence made her a fan favorite. With each project, she refined her skills, and today she is seen as both dependable and versatile. In Do Kinaray, she impressed audiences to the point where many tuned in specifically to watch her.
Her journey from supporting roles to a leading lady shows the power of consistency. Momina Iqbal is now firmly part of the group of Pakistani stars admired for talent and hard work.
Hina Afridi – From Modeling to Mainstream Acting
Like many Pakistani stars, Hina Afridi began her journey in modelling. She soon realized her real passion was acting and made her debut with a supporting role in Pehli Si Mohabbat. Though small, the role got her noticed, and soon she started appearing in lead roles.
Her breakthrough came with Raja Rani, where she played the central character with grace and power. Now, with upcoming projects like Ghulam, Badshah, Sundari, where she will share the screen with big names like Imran Ashraf and Zaviyar Nauman Ijaz, Hina’s future looks brighter than ever.
She is quickly establishing herself as one of the newest leading Pakistani stars admired for both beauty and talent.
Anika Zulfikar – From Theatre to TV Dramas
Anika Zulfikar is one of the most unique names among new Pakistani stars. Before entering the drama industry, she worked in theatre and appeared in music videos in Canada. She even featured in YouTube content with Shahveer Jafry.
Her move to Pakistan marked the beginning of her television career. In Namak Haram, she played Sarah Khan’s sister, which helped her get noticed. She later impressed audiences in Qarz e Jaan, and her upcoming lead role in Geo’s Uraan and another project with Muneeb Butt has made fans excited.
Her international exposure and theatre background give her a fresh approach to acting, making her one of the Pakistani stars to watch in coming years.
Reham Rafiq – The Versatile Performer
Reham Rafiq is a rising name among Pakistani stars known for versatility. She began her career in films with Khel Khel Mein, later taking on challenging television roles.
Initially, she was typecast into negative roles, such as in Kaffara and Judwa, but her breakout performance as Amal Suleman in Parwarish proved her ability to handle leading roles. Viewers loved her transformation into a strong character who drove the story forward.
Her journey from playing side characters to becoming a main character highlights her determination. Today, Reham Rafiq is one of the Pakistani stars climbing fast in the industry.
Laiba Khan – A New-Age Heroine
Among the new generation of Pakistani stars, Laiba Khan stands out for her steady growth. She began with supporting roles but soon won attention for her performances.
Her dramas Kaffara and Aas Paas broke viewership records and established her as a popular leading actress. With her expressive eyes, graceful acting, and relatable personality, Laiba has become one of the most loved Pakistani stars among young viewers.
Her success story is proof that talent and patience can break the industry’s rigid hierarchy.
Fajr Sheikh – The Theatre Talent
Fajr Sheikh made her mark first on the theatre stage, where she polished her craft before stepping into television. Her transition to TV was smooth because of her strong acting foundation.
Her role in Qarz e Jaan finally gave her the recognition she deserved. Fans admired her powerful performance, and she quickly earned a place in the hearts of viewers.
With her theatre background and ability to deliver emotionally charged performances, Fajr Sheikh is now among the Pakistani stars who have successfully moved from supporting roles to the leading category.
Conclusion
The journey of these nine Pakistani stars shows that nothing is impossible with passion and perseverance. Each of them faced challenges, typecasting, and rejection, yet they refused to give up. Their stories prove that in the Pakistani entertainment industry, talent eventually finds its place, no matter how long it takes.
From Ali Raza’s politician role to Nameer Khan’s overnight stardom, from Shuja Asad’s struggles to Momina Iqbal’s dependable charm — every actor on this list is a shining example of resilience. They are now inspiring new actors to dream big, reminding us that even in an industry with rigid rules, breakthroughs are always possible.
The rise of these names shows us why the world has its eyes on Pakistani stars their stories, struggles, and successes make them true role models of ambition and artistry.
FAQs
1. Who is the most successful new Pakistani star right now?
Actors like Nameer Khan and Ali Raza are rising quickly as lead stars.
2. Which Pakistani actress has recently become a lead?
Momina Iqbal and Laiba Khan have both transitioned into lead roles.
3. Do Pakistani stars often start with supporting roles?
Yes, most actors begin with smaller roles before proving themselves.
4. Which Pakistani star moved from theatre to television?
Fajr Sheikh successfully transitioned from theatre to TV.
5. Why are these stars inspiring?
Because they prove that hard work and patience can break industry barriers.
