Spring Break
UTD alum acts the part
Self-marketing makes the difference for former MBA student
Farraz Khan
Issue date: 5/16/05 Section: News
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Madhav, who starred in several television shows and independent films, has capitalized on his talent and marketing skills to attain success in Hollywood. Since his arrival in Los Angeles in 2002, Madhav has chalked up a list of credits that includes television shows such as "8 Simple Rules," "Stargate 1" and "The Investigators" (Court TV) as well as films such as "Transit" (MTV) and "True Love" (Independent Film Channel).
He has worked with Hollywood A-listers like Hilary Duff and Maria Conchita Alonso. Meanwhile, Madhav's recurring role on "General Hospital" has won him a slew of soap fans and publicity, and he is participating in other ventures such as "CSI: NY."
The passion that spawned a career in entertainment began at age 14. It was in Vancouver, Canada that the London-born actor took his first sip of acting through a drama class.
"At that time, I didn't even know what drama was," Madhav said. "I only took the class because two of my best friends were taking it."
Madhav soon realized he enjoyed acting and was receiving praise from students and teachers.
Throughout his high school and college career, Madhav participated in theatrical productions, while taking drama and screenwriting classes on the side. Entering UTD in August 1998, Madhav put his performing on hold to focus on his MBA in Marketing.
During his two-year stint at UTD, Madhav made extensive use of the Activity Center, spending time lifting weights and swimming. He remained faithful to his love of entertainment by working with independent film groups in Dallas and gaining knowledge about the filmmaking process.
For Madhav, there were ups and downs to the UTD experience.
"At UTD, I perceived a lack of an artistic outlet," he said. "However, I have been able to apply to my career some of the marketing skills I gained through my business education."
In late 2002, Madhav boarded a plane with a one-way ticket to the City of Angels. The new journey stirred mixed feelings about the possibility of success.
"I was a little uncertain at first - I didn't know how things would work out," Madhav said. "However, my confidence grew very quickly once I realized that I was very marketable and that the challenges could be overcome with the right investments in my career."
Soon after landing in LA, Madhav began investing in his career. He sent photos and postcards to agents and casting directors. To build his credits and contacts, he acted in student films and attended industry events.
His said his efforts paid off as he landed the opportunity to audition for "General Hospital" with the help of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA).
Madhav's early experiences taught him about the reality of Hollywood - a reality, he said, where "luck factor" is key.
"I was surprised to find that, in person, many stars do not exude the 'star appeal' or charisma one might expect," he said. "It's the great promotion, PR and image management that makes all the difference. Given this, it's really difficult to predict who will make it big. Talent is not the deciding factor."
Madhav began to concentrate on self-marketing to grab acting jobs, finding roles in ABC, MGM and TLC television shows as well as in several independent films.
Nonetheless, he still faces obstacles as a professional actor. As a minority actor, Madhav said he continues to face discrimination in casting. Likewise, film and television do not equitably represent South Asians. To combat this problem, Madhav is working closely with unions and advocacy groups.
Regardless of the challenges, Madhav said he is satisfied with his choice to become an actor.
"I'm doing what I love - that's priceless," he said. "I get to meet so many interesting people - it's given me the opportunity to attain the lifestyle that I have wanted for so long."
Visit Madhav's website at sanjaymadhav.com.
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