Actor Shehnaaz Gill has revealed that she no longer accepts projects without adequate remuneration, saying her early experiences in the entertainment industry taught her that working for free rarely earns the respect artists deserve. Reflecting on her journey from struggling newcomer to established actor, Shehnaaz said she has become more conscious of valuing both her work and her time.
Speaking about the lessons she has learnt over the years, the Bigg Boss 13 fame recalled that there was a time when she willingly took up assignments without charging any fee. While she believed such opportunities would help her gain recognition and build relationships in the industry, the outcome was often disappointing.
“I have done work for free, but I didn’t get the respect I deserved,” Shehnaaz said, adding that she has now reached a stage in her career where she refuses to compromise on fair compensation. According to the actor, being paid appropriately is not just about money but also about being valued as a professional.
Shehnaaz explained that her outlook towards work has evolved with experience. Earlier, she was willing to overlook financial considerations in the hope of creating opportunities for herself. However, she eventually realised that people often fail to appreciate or respect work that comes without a price tag. That realisation prompted her to set clearer professional boundaries and insist on being compensated fairly for every project she undertakes.
The actor also reflected on her career trajectory after making her Bollywood debut alongside Salman Khan in Kisi Ka Bhai Kisi Ki Jaan. While Hindi film offers have slowed down, Shehnaaz said she is not worried about the pace of her Bollywood career. Instead, she pointed out that she has established herself as a recognised name in the Punjabi film industry, where she continues to receive meaningful opportunities and enjoys a strong fan following.
Rather than accepting every role that comes her way, Shehnaaz said she now prefers to wait for projects that genuinely excite her. She emphasised that meaningful work matters more than simply staying visible and that she is willing to be patient until the right script comes along. The actor added that she no longer feels pressured to say yes to every opportunity merely for exposure.
Since rising to national fame through Bigg Boss 13, Shehnaaz has steadily expanded her career across television, music, Punjabi cinema and Bollywood. She has also built a significant digital presence, allowing her to connect directly with audiences beyond films. Her comments on fair pay have resonated with many aspiring actors and freelancers, highlighting a broader conversation about valuing creative labour and ensuring professionals are compensated fairly for their contributions.