Karachi( The COW News Digital )Pakistani actress Momina Iqbal has strongly condemned a fake video that misrepresented her gender identity, calling it a “painful and disturbing experience.” The viral deepfake clip, which was manipulated from an old interview, has drawn widespread criticism for its misleading content and emotional impact.
Speaking candidly during a recent television appearance, Momina addressed the video that had falsely questioned her gender. She revealed that the manipulated content originated from an August 2022 interview and was altered in a way that distorted her words. “The video was edited to question my identity as a woman and was viewed more than 45 million times,” she said.
Momina expressed the shock and confusion she felt when the video went viral. “Journalists were calling me constantly, and I didn’t even know how to respond. I kept thinking—do I give them my doctor’s number for proof? It was ridiculous,” she said. “Being asked to prove your gender as a woman is one of the most heartbreaking experiences.”
She noted that many around her advised her to issue a public clarification, but she chose to reflect instead. “If it were true, I would have accepted it. But reacting to a blatant lie seemed pointless,” she added.
The actress emphasized the importance of tackling digital misinformation and safeguarding women from targeted online abuse. “This is not just a personal attack; it’s a violation of every woman’s dignity,” she said.
In the same interview, Momina also discussed her professional preferences, stating she enjoys playing negative roles in dramas. “Negative characters are fun—they can say or do anything. It challenges me as an actress,” she said. Momina is currently seen in ARY Digital’s popular drama serial ‘Dastak,’ where she plays a villainous character. The final episode of the series is set to air this Friday.
Momina’s stand against deepfake content has reignited the conversation around digital ethics and the urgent need for regulation of AI-manipulated media in Pakistan’s entertainment industry.
