The tragic demise of model and actress Humaira Asghar has cast a long shadow over Pakistan’s showbiz industry, as a video of the late artist criticising the hypocrisy prevalent in the entertainment world surfaced days after her body was discovered in Karachi.

Humaira Asghar, originally from Lahore, had relocated to Karachi to pursue her dreams in the entertainment industry. On July 8, her decomposed body was recovered from a flat in the upscale Defence area of the city, reportedly a month after her death. The circumstances surrounding her passing remain unclear, and a formal investigation is under way.

The news of her death sent shockwaves across social media and among her colleagues, many of whom expressed disbelief over the tragedy and raised questions about the isolation in which she passed away.

Humaira, who began her modelling career in 2013, had worked with some of Pakistan’s top designers including Ali Zeeshan, Deepak Perwani and Sana Safinaz. She also appeared in films such as Jalebi and Love Vaccine, but her most recognisable work came through her participation in the 2022 reality show Tamasha.

In a video clip that began circulating online following her death, the actress can be seen candidly addressing what she viewed as the most disturbing element of the showbiz industry — its inherent insincerity.

“Hypocrisy,” she said in response to a question about what she disliked most about the industry. “There are people in our showbiz who are very hypocritical.”

She elaborated that while she had also encountered sincere individuals in the fashion and entertainment circles — those she described as mentally strong and emotionally composed — a large part of the industry was dominated by pretense and superficiality.

“Some people in this industry wear false smiles. This is something I have never been able to do,” she remarked. “I’ve tried to adapt, I’ve even worn a mask when necessary, but this kind of fake hospitality isn’t something I want to learn.”

Humaira's remarks have taken on new significance in light of her lonely and unexplained death, raising concerns about the mental health challenges and social isolation faced by individuals in the entertainment profession.

Industry peers and fans have taken to social media to express sorrow, with some calling for introspection within the showbiz community.

Her death has also renewed calls for stronger support systems for those working in the creative sectors — particularly women — who often face invisible pressures behind the curtain of glamour.

Authorities have yet to confirm the exact cause and time of her death, and the police say further forensic analysis is under way.