Celebrity hairstylist Aalim Hakim calls out actors whose managers disrespect crew

Aalim Hakim (Pic/Instagram)

Celebrity hairstylist Aalim Hakim has sparked conversation across the entertainment industry after he recently shared a strong-worded note on social media. In the note, he called out celebrity managers who treat creative professionals working behind the scenes in films, shoots, and celebrity appearances badly. He also announced his decision that he will no longer work with such actors.

Aalim Hakim condemns actors with rude managers

Aalim took to Instagram to share a note on May 15, 2026, in which he wrote, "RESPECT THE ARTISTS BEHIND THE STAR. Hairdressers. Makeup Artists. Stylists. Assistants. Crew Members. Please don't call them ‘just staff.'"

In the post, he also highlighted the demanding nature of creative jobs in the entertainment industry, saying, "Behind every public appearance, every red carpet moment, every film look, every photoshoot, every close-up… there are creative people silently giving their heart, their time, their talent, and their energy to make someone shine."

Highlighting the personal sacrifices many crew members make while working in the industry, the hairstylist added, "Many of these artists leave their homes before sunrise. Stand for endless hours. Miss festivals, birthdays, families, sleep, and peace… Only to make sure the actor they work with looks and feels their absolute best."

Aalim's statement directly addresses the instances of disrespect and rude behaviour faced by crew members from celebrities' representatives. Although he did not name anyone, he wrote, "It is heartbreaking to see managers speaking rudely, humiliating people, throwing a tantrum, or releasing frustration on innocent crew members, especially for mistakes that are not even theirs."

He also mentioned that such behaviour can negatively affect an actor's public image without them being aware of it. "Sometimes actors don't even realise how badly their image, reputation, and energy are being damaged outside the vanity van because of the behaviour of the people representing them," he said. Taking a firm professional stand on the issue, he concluded, "We have decided to step away from working with actors whose teams disrespect, demean, or mistreat any creative professional or crew member."

Celebrities support Aalim Hakim

The post even received support from several industry members, who commented on the post. Rajkummar Rao commented, "Absolutely sir. Respect and Equality two utmost important things." Similarly, filmmaker and choreographer Farah Khan wrote, "Well done Aalim." Filmmaker Zoya Akhtar wrote, "Bang On," while Bobby Deol, Pulkit Samrat, Aditya Seal and others commented with the applauding emojis.