"She is too old to play a student."
Mehwish Hayat’s much-awaited return to television in the drama serial Dayan has stirred mixed reactions among viewers.
Starring in Dayan, an action-packed drama filled with love, revenge, and suspense, the renowned actress has come under criticism for her role choice.
In Dayan, Mehwish plays Nihaal, also known as Misha, a university student from a strict household.
Her character faces oppression from her alcoholic and uneducated father, who regularly torments his family.
Fans were thrilled to see her back in dramas after nearly nine years.
However, many were surprised by her portrayal of a young university student.
One viewer suggested: “Had they made Mehwish Hayat a lecturer at the university, the story would look more believable.”
Another remarked: “She is too old to play a student. My God! What happened to the directors?”
Similar sentiments were echoed by others, with one fan stating:
“She’s a fine actor, but this role is not suited for her.”
Despite the criticism, some fans remain hopeful about her transformation into an evil character—the Dayan—later in the series.
They believe her talent will shine once the plot takes a darker turn.
The drama, directed by Siraj-ul-Haq and written by Fatima Faizan and Amber Azhar, premiered on Geo TV on February 24, 2025.
Initially, the title was kept a secret, creating intrigue before its trailer was finally released in early February.
The show airs twice a week, on Mondays and Tuesdays.
Produced by Abdullah Kadwani and Asad Qureshi, Dayan boasts a stellar ensemble cast.
Alongside Mehwish Hayat, it features Ahsan Khan, Hira Mani, Usman Pirzada, Afshin Hayat, Nayyar Ejaz, Zainab Qayyum, and Usama Tahir.
Other cast members include Sohail Sameer, Nida Mumtaz, Shamil Khan, and Zahra Aamir.
This drama marks Mehwish Hayat’s return to television after almost a decade.
Her last full-length TV drama, Dillagi, aired in 2016.
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Though she appeared in the 2023 telefilm Ijaazat alongside Hassan Sheheryar Yasin (HSY), Dayan is her first proper serial since Dillagi.
Mehwish has been focusing on films and international projects, including her role in the American superhero series Ms Marvel.
Her return to television was highly anticipated, but the controversy surrounding her casting has overshadowed the initial excitement.
Whether the drama will win over critics as the story unfolds remains to be seen.
For now, all eyes are on Mehwish Hayat’s performance and how her character evolves in Dayan.
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