A Close Call on Set
Pakistani television actor Syed Jibran has disclosed that he narrowly escaped death during the filming of a drama at Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi. While enacting a scene depicting a prisoner’s execution, a technical malfunction nearly turned the performance into a real hanging.
Speaking on Geo News’ comedy talk show Hansna Mana Hai, Jibran described the tense moment that shook not only him but also the entire production team.
He recalled, “We were filming a hanging scene inside Adiala Jail. I had the noose around my neck and was standing on the execution platform. The director wanted to capture even the moment when the lever was pulled. For safety reasons, the trapdoor had been chained to prevent it from opening.”
However, things quickly went wrong. Jibran explained, “My face was covered with a black hood. When the lever was pulled, it jammed due to a technical fault. The director asked for a retake and I was taken off the platform. The moment I stepped down, the lever was pulled again—and this time the trapdoor opened. Had I stayed a few seconds longer, I might not be alive today.”
Life and Death in a Few Seconds
The actor described the incident as the narrowest escape of his life, calling it “the thin line between life and death.” The shocking turn of events left the cast and crew frozen in disbelief.
Following the ordeal, colleagues advised Jibran to give charity as an act of gratitude for his survival—a common cultural practice in Pakistan after surviving dangerous situations.
From Medical School to the Screen
Beyond the frightening memory, Jibran also shared the unusual story of how he entered show business. During the interview, he revealed that he was studying in the third year of his MBBS degree when a friend jokingly bet him 100 Pakistani rupees (roughly $0.35) after seeing a model’s billboard. The challenge was simple: if Jibran ever appeared on television, the friend would lose the bet.
Laughing, Jibran said, “I only joined television to win that bet. I did one project, but then acting became my profession.”
Since then, he has become a household name in Pakistan’s entertainment industry, appearing in numerous popular television dramas.
Viral Reaction on Social Media
The actor’s candid interview quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing both shock and admiration from fans. Many expressed disbelief at the dangerous mishap during filming, while others praised the lighthearted story behind his acting debut.
On platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, fans highlighted how his near-death experience revealed the risks actors sometimes face while performing. Others noted that his career, born from a small wager, has grown into a significant presence in Pakistani drama.
Safety Concerns in Film Productions
While Jibran survived unharmed, his story highlights broader concerns about safety on South Asian film and television sets. Industry experts have often pointed out that safety protocols are not always rigorously enforced, particularly during action sequences or scenes involving stunts.
Globally, similar incidents have raised awareness about the importance of on-set safety. In Hollywood, for example, accidental injuries and even fatalities have led to stricter regulations. Jibran’s revelation could reignite debate in Pakistan about ensuring that actors and crew members are protected during risky scenes.
A Story of Fate and Fortune
For Jibran, the chilling experience at Adiala Jail remains a reminder of life’s fragility. What could have ended in tragedy became instead a story of survival—one now retold with both gravity and relief.
And while his career began with a small bet among friends, his journey since has cemented him as one of Pakistan’s recognized actors. Fans continue to engage with his story online, reflecting both on the dangers he faced and the unlikely path that led him to fame.
