Veteran politician and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Nabeel Gabol has sparked intense debate on social media after claiming that Netflix is developing a high-profile scripted series based on the history of Lyari, one of Karachi’s most storied neighbourhoods.
Speaking amid controversy surrounding the Indian film Dhurandhar, Gabol said a Netflix production team has approached him regarding a proposed three-season series aimed at portraying what he described as the “real Lyari.”
According to Gabol, the project seeks to explore Lyari’s complex past, power structures and socio-political dynamics, countering what he called negative portrayals in foreign productions.
He further claimed that a Netflix team is expected to visit Pakistan in March in connection with the project.
Wagner Moura named in casting claim
The most striking aspect of Gabol’s statement was his claim regarding casting. He alleged that a Netflix director or producer expressed interest in casting Wagner Moura, the Brazilian actor best known for portraying Pablo Escobar in Netflix’s hit series Narcos.
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Gabol said the producers cited a physical resemblance between him and Moura, suggesting the character would be inspired by his own political journey in Lyari.
Link to ‘Dhurandhar’ controversy
Gabol’s remarks come shortly after he publicly criticised the Indian film Dhurandhar, which features a character named “Jameel Jamali” reportedly inspired by him.
He described the portrayal as inaccurate, arguing that his real-life role in Lyari politics was far more “dabangg” than shown in the film.
The PPP leader has repeatedly objected to what he calls “negative propaganda” in international portrayals of Lyari, insisting the area is not merely associated with crime but also has a rich cultural and sporting legacy.
No official confirmation from Netflix
Despite the viral reaction across Instagram and X, Netflix has not issued any official confirmation regarding the project, the alleged March visit, or Wagner Moura’s involvement.
Industry observers note that while Lyari’s history could provide compelling material for a crime drama, claims involving international A-list actors remain unverified.
