n a world rife with challenges and competition, young actor Ali Ammar’s transformation from a software engineering student to a celebrated actor is nothing short of remarkable. “It wasn’t an easy feat,” he admits. “When you commit to a path that’s completely out of the box, the pressure to prove yourself is immense.”

A spark ignited in his final year of university when a friend dragged him to an audition for Ehd-e-Wafa. To his surprise, he landed a role, propelling him in to the glitzy yet gritty world of showbiz.

However, it wasn’t all glamour. Ammar soon realised that to truly shine, he needed to put in the work. He turned to the stage (Arts Council), where he honed his craft and refined his acting skills.

Born on October 5, Ammar has immersed himself in literature from various schools of thought, including that of Russian theatre legend, Konstantin Stanislavski, to master the nuances of performance. His choice of roles reflects this versatility.

In Wehshi, he played the role of a friend to a psychotic, violent, and headstrong character (Khu-shhal Khan). In Jhok Sarkar, he took on a smaller role as Hiba Bukhari’s brother—a young man lured by money and power. While some of his performances were relatively average, it was his recent serial Tan Man Nelo Neel that catapulted him to fame. In this project, he plays Moon, a young man who faces sexual assault at the hands of an older male.

For Ammar, acting is not merely a profession but a calling that demands complete dedication. He prefers to focus on one project at a time, ensuring that every nuance of his character is explored in depth. “This particular project is a mega serial, comprising 25 to 26 episodes,” he explains. “I’m genuinely excited for the audience to witness the growth and complexity of this character as the story unfolds.”

Ammar’s journey has been shaped by the contrasting environments of Islamabad and Karachi. “Islamabad, with its breathtaking outdoor locations and tranquil atmosphere, inspires creativity,” he shares. “But its smaller media scene limits networking opportunities. In contrast, Karachi is the pulsating heart of the media industry—bustling with activity, where the advertising market thrives. Here, I enjoy greater exposure and collaboration with a vibrant community of creative professionals.”

Discussing what led him to accept such a controversial role in Tan Man Nelo Neel, Ammar elaborates, “Through this character, I want to raise awareness and challenge societal norms,” he asserts. “Tackling sexual assault, particularly concerning young boys, wasn’t easy. I had my reservations about how people would react, but I realised this conversation is necessary. I was excited to take on something challenging, but I also felt the weight of the world on my shoulders, knowing the sensitivity of the subject matter.”

Ammar is proving himself to be a trailblazer in the drama industry, and Tan Man Nelo Neel has struck a chord with audiences, earning him widespread acclaim. When asked about what drove him to accept the role despite potential backlash, Ammar’s motivations reveal a deeper purpose. “I’m all about tackling uncomfortable truths. My passion for acting, combined with a desire to make a positive impact, pushed me to take on this challenge—no matter how rocky the road may be.”

Currently, Ammar is immersed in a compelling project set to debut on a private channel shortly after Eid. While details remain under wraps, he is eager to bring his newest character—an ambitious young man thrust into turmoil by a sudden family crisis—to life. Like many of his previous roles, this one presents another challenge, and his commitment to authenticity remains unwavering.

Ammar’s experience with co-stars has been an enriching aspect of his career, particularly his work alongside talented actors like Sehar Khan. “Working with her was a wonderful experience,” he shares. “Her unwavering support and positive energy on set creates an atmosphere where everyone can perform at their best.” He admires her acting range and the way she delivers powerful cues, elevating the authenticity of their scenes together.

When asked about the directors who have impacted his journey, Ammar’s respect is evident. Saife Hassan, a frequent collaborator, stands out as a mentor as well as a director. “He is a great teacher,” he says, acknowledging Hassan’s impact on his growth as an actor. However, he is quick to praise other talented directors such as Kashif Nisar, Mohammed Ehteshamuddin, Haseeb Hassan, and many more, appreciating their unique styles and contributions to the industry.

As Ammar looks to the future, his priorities remain clear: strong storytelling, challenging roles, and collaboration with skilled directors. This commitment to meaningful narratives continues to drive his evolution as an actor, ensuring that every character he portrays leaves a lasting impact.

Reflecting on the role of drama as an agent of social change, Ammar hopes to shed light on overlooked issues and spark broader conversations in a society that desperately needs them. “Every shout-out from fans and the fraternity is like music to my ears,” he shares, expressing gratitude for the love and support that reaffirm his decision to follow his passion over convention.