Perfect Choices

Frank and forthright, Azrel Ismail is making his mark in showbiz – and he’s in no hurry.

- John Ng

Azrel Ismail is building a long-lasting acting career for himself and he has been well aware of it since reaching top five in a local modelling competition years ago. The truth is, he’s taking it one step at a time as he moulds himself into a many-sided actor, a process that he knows cannot be rushed. He worked as a commercial talent for about three years after and got his first proper acting role – as part of the main cast, no less – in Fajar Bukhara in 2014.

“I believe that it is important to keep breaking the norm and to not be stereotyped as a one-dimensional actor. I love playing characters that inspire me, and if that means giving up something or learning a new skill from scratch, I am willing to do it as long as I believe in it enough,” he said.

And no, everything hasn’t quite panned out the way Azrel imagined it would. He realises that he needs to be more connected with his fans; he needs to “share” his life with them, end of story. Though it is one thing to know, it is another thing entirely to become accustomed to the attention.

“For the past three and a half years, it’s been challenging for me to stay relevant in the industry. There is so much more to learn; I’d say I probably need another three years before feeling totally comfortable about it,” he continued. Then came Pulang.