“Landing the part took me one step closer to the dream"
A teenager from the Black Country has described his pride at joining the final season of BBC comedy Man Like Mobeen, calling the moment a dream come true.
Danyal Zafar plays Moped in the show’s fifth and final season.
The 19-year-old actor, who auditioned via Zoom from his bedroom, said the role brings him closer to the dream he has had since childhood.
He said: “Landing the part took me one step closer to the dream I had when I was eight years old.”
Danyal said his casting felt significant at a time when British television is showing increased interest in South Asian stories. He named Citizen Khan, Virdee, Ackley Bridge, and Man Like Mobeen as recent successes that show a shift in attitudes.
He believes representation still matters:
“I’m from the Pakistani community, so acting is very looked down upon in my community of South Asian people.
“It’s a cultural hangover, where doctors and lawyers are seen to be proper jobs.”
Man Like Mobeen, created by comedian Guz Khan, has been praised for its portrayal of working-class Muslim life and has served as a launch pad for young talent.
It was filmed across Birmingham and Coventry.
Danyal Zafar said he found out about the role while “chilling out” at home after finishing his BTEC in acting at Halesowen College.
He came across the casting call on Instagram and thought: “Why not.”
Danyal credited his college training for helping him prepare:
“You’re quite confident in yourself when you’re doing them regularly.”
Despite that preparation, he admitted to being a little overwhelmed when he arrived on set. Meeting Guz Khan in person felt surreal.
Danyal stated: “A few years back, I was just watching the show with my friends.
“It was just seeing someone you only see on screen in real life.”
Danyal has since filmed a small part in the upcoming film I See Buildings Fall Like Lightning. He said he hopes to do more film and television work in the future.
But ultimately, the project has to feel right:
“If I just get to perform and I like the role and I like the script, I’ll do it.”
Danyal Zafar also hopes his journey will inspire others in his community to pursue acting.
He added: “If I can inspire anyone to just follow what they want to do when they dream, honestly, that would be the best feeling on earth.”
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