Entertainment industry must have evolved and many new things are happening. But, the discussion on the difference between actor and star has been on for years as many find it hard to differentiate unlike others, while there are still others who believe that they are one. Zayn Ibad Khan, however, does not believe that there is a difference between a star and an actor. The Ishq Mein Marjawan 2 actor explains his viewpoint.
“I don’t believe in this phenomenon. I think the one who does his work truthfully and gives his heart and soul and everything to his work is a star. And the biggest stars are always the most humble and grounded because they have been through a journey that makes them like that. I believe the one who is down-to-earth even after huge success, is the real star,” he says.
While the opportunities are plenty, so is the competition in the industry right now. This is probably the reason why the actor and star difference is not that prominent. Also, OTT has changed the game for many.
“I think that it is okay for someone who has links and sources in the industry or maybe star kids might be considered first for any part. But the one who has that talent will stay because this industry is not owned by anyone. If you do good, things will eventually fall into place no matter who you are, a star kid or a nobody like me,” he adds.
A variety of projects are being made in Bollywood, OTT and TV. Even music videos and short films are in the works. An actor today is spoilt for choice and sometimes fails to understand how and what can be done. Zayn does not believe that is the case.
“I think everyone who is working in this industry is working by choice as no one can force you to be an actor. It is something that comes from within. It is not a bank job, ‘jo sab kar sakte hain’,” he explains.
The whole discussion around how knowing someone in showbiz helps one get through good projects is a never-ending debate. In spite of having personal managers and talent management companies, people are getting work more by references and personal equations. Knowing someone always helps.
“In fact there are some really bad viruses in the industry jo kisi bahar walo ko kaam milne nahi dete. If they think you are the one who has the potential, they will just try to capture you and your forthcoming work by making you fall for their exclusive contracts. I have not met with any accidents but I know a lot of people have been there because of that, the talent go to waste. Ab Raja ka beta Raja nahi banega, ab Raja wahi banega jo haqdaar hoga—this dialogue from Super30 explains the situation rightly,” he adds.
Actors who have no alternate fall back option get frustrated waiting for the right opportunity in showbiz. On how one should handle the ups and downs of this profession, Zayn says, “This field is completely different from other industries, things keep changing here. There are people who have worked continuously for years like a decade yet they sit at home without work for years also. There is no consistency is this industry. You have to make your place here and it is very depressing to stay at home without work, I can’t do that. I think when we become too choosy then things might go haywire and if you are waiting for the right opportunity and leaving some small opportunities then I feel it’s time to think again, because if you don’t show up people will forget you.”
