Arsalan Khan, a celebrated model-turned-actor, has made waves with his smooth transition from the runway to the screen. Known for his magnetic presence and expressive style in modeling, Khan brings depth and charisma to his roles in the acting world. His journey reflects a passion for storytelling, with each character allowing him to explore new facets of his craft. Arsalan’s modeling background laid a strong foundation in confidence and self-expression, skills he now uses to bring his characters to life. Fashion Times Magazine catches up with the rising star for a detailed conversation.
(Q) What inspired you to pursue modeling, and how has your journey in the fashion industry shaped your career?
(A) Passion, creativity, and self-expression drove me to pursue modeling. Growing up, I was fascinated by the fashion world and its transformative power. My journey in the industry has been an incredible ride from learning to embrace my individuality to working with talented, creative and brands. Through countless shoots, TVCs, and campaigns, I’ve honed my craft, built resilience, and discovered my unique voice. The fashion industry has taught me to be confident, adaptable, and open-minded. Today, I’m grateful for the opportunities to inspire others, break boundaries, and showcase beauty in its diverse forms. My career has become a canvas for self-expression, empowerment, and connection.
(Q) As someone who has ventured into dramas, how different is acting from modeling in terms of preparation and performance?
(A) As I transition from modeling to acting, I’ve discovered a whole new world of preparation and performance. Modeling taught me confidence, posture, and expression, but acting requires so much more.
Depth over face value: In modeling, it’s all about the visual. In acting, I must tap into my character’s emotions, backstory, and motivations.
Script analysis: I now spend hours studying scripts, breaking down scenes, and understanding dialogue.
Character development: I create an entire persona, from voice tone to body language.
Rehearsals and takes: Gone are the days of one-take wonders. Acting involves multiple rehearsals and takes.
Vulnerability: Acting demands emotional vulnerability, making me open to feelings and emotions.
It’s been a thrilling challenge, and I’m loving every minute of it.
(Q) What motivated you to transition into acting, and was it always a part of your career plan?
(A) I transitioned to acting to tell stories beyond poses and connect with others on a deeper level. It wasn’t always the plan, but pivotal moments sparked this journey. I’m excited to explore, learn, and grow.
(Q) Can you share some of the challenges you faced when you first entered the drama industry?
(A) When I first stepped into acting, I faced, rejection and self-doubt, adapting to intense shooting schedules, balancing two careers together and overcoming the fear of vulnerability on-screen.
But my perseverance, hard work, and supportive mentors helped me overcome these challenges. Now, I’m grateful for the lessons learned and the opportunities gained. To all aspiring actors, stay determined and keep pushing forward keep learning, growing, and evolving.
(Q) How do you balance your career in both modeling and acting? Do you find any similarities between the two?
(A) Balancing modeling and acting involves a bit of scheduling magic, setting clear goals, and prioritizing self-care; both careers share similarities in storytelling through expression, confidence, charisma, and a love for creativity. I’m truly grateful for the opportunity to pursue both.
(Q) What type of roles are you drawn to, and do you have any dream characters you’d like to portray in future dramas?
(A) I am drawn to anti-hero roles having depth, complex layered characters, stories of redemption, and realistic and factual roles. My dream characters are Yuri Boyka in Undisputed 2, and 3, John Wick, Spider-man in the marvel series. I am inspired by Tom Hiddleston’s ‘Loki’, Bryan Cranston’s ‘Walter White’ and some iconic Shah Rukh Khan roles.
(Q) How do you prepare for your acting roles, especially when compared to preparing for a fashion shoot or runway show?
(A) My acting prep includes script analysis, character development, rehearsals and physical & mental transformation. On the contrary my fashion prep is mainly based on research, wardrobe & beauty prep, rehearsals and confidence & energy.
(Q) Who has been your biggest influence or mentor in the acting world so far?
(A) I am a good observer myself. I observe the world so you can say that my mentor is the world.
(Q) What upcoming projects are you most excited about in both your modeling and acting careers?
(A) I can’t disclose all the details right now but I am doing a project in which I play an anti-hero character. My fans are surely going to love it. I am also busy doing a fashion magazine shoot as well.
