Lahore, 7 October, 2026 (Nosheen): Pakistani actor, writer and director Shaan Shahid has questioned the growing presence of TikTokers, YouTubers, influencers and other social media personalities in the country’s mainstream entertainment industry, saying instant online popularity does not necessarily guarantee a lasting career. Speaking on Dunya TV’s The Anchorman, hosted by Ali Sohail, the veteran actor discussed the changing dynamics of Pakistan’s entertainment industry and the increasing transition of digital creators into television and cinema. Shaan said he could not control who was selected for films or television projects and that individuals were free to make their own professional choices. However, he questioned whether sudden social media fame could provide a strong foundation for a sustainable acting career. In a blunt remark about the growing crossover between social media and mainstream showbiz, he said, “Your camera, your circus,” stressing that people were free to pursue whatever path they wanted. Shaan also questioned the eagerness of many young people to pursue online fame, arguing that popularity should not be confused with professional expertise. He said while social media recognition could create immediate opportunities, long-term success depended on developing skills and properly understanding the craft. According to the veteran actor, those who achieve fame without mastering their art could eventually find themselves wondering why their careers lasted only a year or a few years.