Scriptwriter Nasir Adeeb has formally apologised to actress Reema Khan after claiming he met with her for a movie role in Lahore’s redlight district, Heeramandi. During a recent appearance on Suno TV’s podcast, Adeeb alleged that he and director Yunus Malik needed two female actors for a small project and went to the redlight district to scout talent. After the host asked him a question, he clarified that he was talking about Heeramandi. The writer claimed that he met with a young girl who he rejected, however, she later became a superstar and “her name was Reema”. He further said that he did not cast her because he felt she was “made of plastic” as her sweetness and smile did not extend to her eyes and an artist was “useless” without emotive eyes.

Following severe backlash, Adeeb apologised to Khan in another appearance on the same podcast. “I apologise to Reema for spreading this information without ascertaining the facts.” Adeeb faced severe backlash from members of the entertainment industry. Fahad Mustafa took to his Instagram story to condemn the statement.

“These podcasts tarnish people’s respect and whoever says whatever their heart desires. Serious action must be taken. It’s not necessary for seniors to be intelligent. Who will ask them to stay quiet?” The actor also apologised to Khan and said she was a star. Television host Rabia Anum Obaid also shared that these “problematic podcasts” had to be stopped, “where any random person gets to say whatever they feel like about any celebrity”.