Actor Imran Ashraf and rising star Zoha Tauqeer are set to appear together on screen for the first time in an upcoming GEO TV drama, but the announcement has sparked criticism rather than excitement online.
Imran Ashraf is a familiar face in Pakistani television, known for memorable performances in dramas like “Ranjha Ranjha Kardi” and “Mushk.” Zoha Tauqeer, on the other hand, is a newer talent who first gained attention in “Aapa Shamim” and later won praise for her roles in “Chaalbaz” and “Zabt.” Their upcoming project, tentatively titled “Jang E Ishq,” is being produced by 7th Sky Entertainment and directed by Ahmed Bhatti. Notably, Imran Ashraf has also written the script himself and will play the lead male role. Filming is reportedly underway at multiple locations.
However, once the casting news went public, viewers on social media reacted with disappointment rather than enthusiasm. A large number of comments focused on the visible age gap between the two leads, with many arguing it looked awkward for on-screen chemistry. Some users felt Zoha appeared far too young to be paired opposite Imran, while others pointed out that this isn’t the first time such mismatched casting has happened on Pakistani television, drawing comparisons to similar complaints about other channels.
Beyond the age gap, some viewers also took issue with the drama’s title, saying the word “Ishq” has been overused in countless past dramas and makes the project feel unoriginal. Despite the backlash, there is no indication so far that the makers plan to revisit the casting.
