Model and actor Mariam Michael has opened up about growing up Christian in Pakistan, saying discrimination against the community is still common today. She recalled hearing slurs during her childhood and said hearing similar words used against others today still upsets her deeply.
In a recent interview, Mariam said that while Pakistan’s entertainment industry has become more welcoming, real change needs to happen across the wider society. She pointed out that a few success stories in showbiz do not reflect the harder realities Christians face in other parts of the country, including in villages, where she said some face forced conversions and violence.
Speaking about blasphemy accusations, Mariam urged people to check facts carefully before reacting and stressed that no one should be harmed based on unverified claims, regardless of religion.
She also spoke about harassment in the entertainment industry, saying many people stay silent because powerful figures control opportunities. She shared an incident told to her by a fellow model, describing an alleged harassment attempt by a well-known photographer during an overseas fashion show. Mariam said such stories often go unreported because victims fear losing work.
On a lighter note, Mariam credited her sister, model Roma Michael, for bringing her into the industry. She said she moved to Karachi to support Roma’s career after her Miss Grand title, and was later offered an acting role herself after visiting a drama set. She made her acting debut in Faasley and now works as both an actor and model.
