Pakistani television has long celebrated larger-than-life personas, but every now and then, an actor comes along who quietly commands attention through authenticity and depth. Feroz Kadri is one such talent. From his breakthrough role in Gumn to the complex characters in Dastak and Goonj, Kadri has steadily carved a space for himself, bringing a nuanced intensity to each performance. In his first-ever interview with HELLO!, he opens up about his craft, the grey shades of human nature he loves to explore on screen, and his personal philosophy that keeps him grounded amidst the spotlight. Viewers have been noticing him more frequently on television, and with each role, Kadri continues to prove that substance and dedication can quietly shine through the glamour of the industry. As audiences see him take on a variety of characters, it’s clear that this is only the beginning of a career that promises both depth and versatility.
You’ve been steadily building your presence with projects like Gumn, Dastak, and Goonj. How do you reflect on your journey so far, and what have these roles taught you about yourself as an actor?
My breakthrough serial Gumn was an actor’s dream, and it sort of spoiled me a little as well. Ever since, I have been careful with what I do. As an actor, I have learnt that your craft is actually a byproduct of your overall personality, and so one must keep evolving day in and day out. As for my journey so far, it has been slow and steady, but I truly believe slow and steady always wins the race.
Many of your characters carry emotional depth or grey shades. What draws you to such roles, and how do you approach making them feel authentic?
Every human has grey shades. I might have done good to some people but might not have been my best with a lot of others, and that is what makes us human. I always try to put myself in the character's shoes to make it feel authentic. A part of me has to be convinced by the character’s motivation; otherwise, it will be impossible to convince others.
In an industry that often leans toward formula storytelling, how do you choose scripts that stand out to you?
A story doesn't have to be mind-boggling or earth-shattering to make its mark. It only has to be coherent, and even if it has no novelty, it will still stand out.
Was there a particular moment or project where you felt this is where you truly belong as an actor?
I hope that day never comes. My ideation and execution are always miles apart, and the day they are in sync will probably be my last day at work.
As someone still carving a space in the industry, what have been the biggest challenges behind the scenes that audiences don’t see?
The only challenge is within you, whether you truly believe that you are capable enough to do what you’re doing. The rest is just noise.
How do you prepare for emotionally intense scenes? Do you rely more on instinct, method, or structured preparation?
It has to be instinct. Like I said earlier, I just need to find myself in that scene, and it becomes easier if you have worked on yourself enough. Keep absorbing information and try to turn it into some form of wisdom.
What drew you to acting in the first place, and when did you realise this was something you wanted to pursue seriously?
I always wanted to play sports because it gives you a high that is unmatched. Once that possibility ended, I felt the same high could be achieved through entertainment.
What kind of roles or stories are you still waiting to explore that we haven’t seen from you yet?
I have done intense grey characters mostly, but I do want to do a light-hearted rom-com to break that image.
In a competitive field like Pakistani television, what do you think truly sets an actor apart in the long run?
It is a dysfunctional field, so if you bring a strong value system with good work ethic, I think you will always be valued.
Looking ahead, what does success mean to you at this stage of your career, and how do you want to be remembered as an artist?
If I keep my values intact till the very end, I will be successful, and I don't want to be remembered. I just want to do my work and go home.
Rapid Fire
One role you wish you had played?
Can’t think of any, but would love to do a local version of Batman if ever made
A co-star you’d love to work with next?
Hania, Sajal, Mahira
Script or director, what matters more?
An average script can still work if you execute it properly, but a good script can be ruined by execution
One word your friends would use to describe you?
Those words can't be published
Early morning shoot or overnight shoot?
Overnight
Tea or coffee on set?
Water
A habit you’re trying to break?
I am a bit lazy. Need to be proactive.
Fame or creative satisfaction?
Fame should only be a byproduct of the creative work that you do
Interview: Safa Adnan
Photography: Zunaish Shaikh
Styling: Rao Ali Khan
Location: Carbon Fitness/ Carbon by Sabih