Interview with Zeeshan Naq

LA Today
12 minutes ago
3 min read

The International Action Star Taking Hollywood By Storm

From performing Bollywood hits at the United Nations to landing action-packed Hollywood roles, Zeeshan Naq has turned a global upbringing spanning Pakistan, Dubai, and Los Angeles into an entertainment arsenal—fluent in four languages, semi-pro in five sports, and crowned Best Model International at Mister Imperial Universe 2017. Now, this multi-hyphenate talent is bringing an authenticity to spy thrillers and action-comedies that only someone who's lived across continents can deliver.

7 QUESTIONS

WITH ZEESHAN NAQ

1. You've lived everywhere from Pakistan to Dubai to Los Angeles—which city shaped your approach to acting most, and why?

New York and Los Angeles helped me shape my acting most as there is so much diversity in both cities. It’s easier to get around and network in New York and work with the same casting directors, producers, directors, and writers, though New York is more known for Theater and somewhat TV and Film, whereas Los Angeles is more spread out but known more for Film and TV.

2. Speaking four languages and being semi-pro in five sports—how does this diverse skill set give you an edge in auditions and character development?

It gives me an edge as I’ve already played those sports at a semi-pro level, so it's easier to get into the character of it; all these sports taught me dedication, persistence, and discipline too. Knowing four languages helps me understand the character more as sometimes you get motivated more by saying the lines in a different language and then saying it in English.

3. Your roles range from "hard-boiled secret agent" to "debonair but clumsy spy"—what's the thread that connects all your characters, and what do casting directors see in you?

Action, comedy, and some drama is what connects all my characters. Casting directors see what I bring to the characters and how I can make it so real that others can relate to themselves.

4. You performed Bollywood and Lollywood songs for the United Nations—tell us about that experience. How did entertainment meet diplomacy?

I was invited to the United Nations to perform as they were having different stands there for the County of Nassau Office Of Minority Affairs, who liked my dance performance for the Annual Asian Pacific Americans of Distinction Awards Ceremony.

I did a dance number from a Bollywood and Lollywood movie and had a fantastic time doing it. Everyone enjoyed my performance and I received a letter of appreciation from them.

5. You won Best Model International at Mister Imperial Universe in 2017—what did that title do for your Hollywood career?

It helped me promote myself as a model and actor in Hollywood and helped me get better opportunities which I can’t talk about yet.

6. With your international background and unique range, what's the dream role or project you're manifesting right now?

Would love to play an action, comedy, or somewhat romance role.

7. As someone who's lived across continents and "enjoys life to the fullest," what's your favorite hidden gem or activity in Los Angeles that keeps you grounded?

Going to watch other movies teaches me how I can improve my acting. Taking audition technique classes and reading books like What to Say When You Talk to Your Self keeps me grounded.