This week You! is in conversation with Memoona Qudoos, a well-known actor. Read on...
you & me
Memoona Qudoos is a versatile and charming actor who is known for her roles in dramas ‘GT Road’, ‘Guddu’, ‘Farq’, ‘Nikah’, ‘Kalank’, ‘Umm-e-Haniya’ and ‘Jaisay Aapki Marzi’. After completion of her BS Honours in Media Studies from International Islamic University and while interning at a television channel, Memoona got interested in modelling, acting, direction, production, script writing and video editing.
In 2016, she started working as a model for fashion brands and commercials. In 2017, actor Aijaz Aslam offered her a role in his production drama ‘Chahiye Thora Pyaar’ which she accepted after much deliberation. The drama paved her way for a bright future in acting. Later actress Javeria Saud cast her in drama ‘Mohabbat Zindagi Hai’ followed by ‘Umm-e-Haniya’, ‘Kyunke Ishq Baraye Farokht Nahi’, ‘GT Road’, and ‘Siyani’. In all these dramas, Memoona established herself as a credible actor through her powerful performances. She also worked in popular dramas including ‘Marz-e-Ishq’, ‘Guddu’, ‘Farq’, ‘Behroop’, ‘Nikah’ and ‘Agar Tum Mere Hote’. She also appeared in dramas ‘Ziddi’, ‘Kalank’, ‘Yehi To Pyar Hai’ and ‘Sukoon’. In 2023, she worked in a blockbuster drama serial - ‘Jaisay Aapki Marzi’. Memoona has also acted in various films. In an exclusive interview, this talented gal shares her likes and dislikes with our readers. Read on...
When did you first realise you were interested in acting?
Honestly, it all kicked off during my BS Honours in Media Studies. I got a taste of everything - direction, production, you name it. But acting? That’s where my heart really sparked. The moment I stepped into a role, I knew I was hooked.
You’ve been juggling diverse roles. What keeps you going?
My passion for acting. I just love telling stories. I love challenging roles and want to keep evolving as an actor.
Which drama have you loved and really enjoyed?
‘Ishq Mubarak’ (2025). It was so much fun working on this comedy serial. I really enjoyed the chemistry I shared with Mohsin Abbas.
Do you think your serial Kalank was a career-defining project?
Yes. In ‘Kalank’ I learned a lot from my co-stars. I portrayed Sheena, a character filled with complexities - she’s head over heels in love with her flirtatious colleague, but her intense possessiveness and emotional depth make her journey even more challenging. The character’s arc took a dramatic turn, culminating in her tragic decision to poison her insincere boyfriend and end her own life as well.
How was your experience working in Jaisay Aapki Marzi?
It was an absolute pleasure working with Dur-e-Fishan and Meekal Zulfiqar. ‘Jaisay Aapki Marzi’ was directed by Saba Hameed who is an incredible director. During filming, I faced a tough situation as I was battling a high-grade fever, but pushed through to finish my scenes. Saba jee appreciated my dedication and highly praised my performance, which meant the world to me. I played a girl who falls hopelessly for a guy without realising he’s just a smooth talker after her money. It was like being caught in a spider’s web - she goes through a whirlwind of messy events, financial loss, and mental turmoil.
How diverse your roles were in serials Ziddi, Tauba and Dao?
In ‘Ziddi’ my role faces family dynamics and the consequences that follow. It’s a tough gig playing a character like that, but in ‘Tauba’ as Shazia, my character represents the strength of women from common, middle-class backgrounds who strive to maintain their dignity amidst precarious situations. Whereas in ‘Dao’ I played Nisha, who is fiercely independent and unafraid to take risks. This character was a far cry from the roles I had played before and taught me a lot about resilience. It’s inspiring to showcase how women can defend themselves and survive the trials life throws at them while holding onto their values.
How do you handle negative criticism?
It’s part of the game, right? I’ve learned to roll with it. Sure, some comments are trash, but a few nuggets can help me level up my game. Feedback is a two-way street, so why not take the constructive bits?
Do you think accepting Raaz was a wise move?
‘Raaz’ was an incredible adventure into the genre of horror, which was quite a departure from my usual roles. The entire experience was fresh and captivating; working in a horror serial was something I had never done before, and I welcomed the challenge. There’s a growing demand for horror content worldwide, and I wanted to be part of that wave.
What advice would you give to aspiring actors following in your footsteps?
Just stay true to yourself. Chase those dreams and don’t let anything hold you back.