Leading a life worth living inspires many to venture into the great unknown. This is especially true of actor Saagar Shaikh, who did not allow comfort to take hold. Amidst career uncertainty and minority hindrances, he did not let it impede his pursuit of stardom. Shaikh, a UTSA alum, boasts a filmography such as “Ms. Marvel,” “The Marvel’s” and Hulu’s latest hit show “Deli Boys.”
On April 23, the UTSA Film & media program held a talk and Q&A on the Main Campus with Shaikh. Here, he began sharing his journey of graduating from UTSA in 2011 with a business degree and returning 13 years later to a newly established film program. Shaikh expressed his excitement about the program’s existence and its potential impact on the local film industry.
When discussing San Antonio’s film scene, he highlighted a need for creative writing and film programs. In his claim, “Texas’ red state status and the city’s small-town mentality hinder the recognition of local talent.” This lack of support for local artists was the driving factor in his relocation to Los Angeles to pursue acting. Shaikh went into depth about the benefits that areas of free expression, such as the impact improv theaters have on professional development. He believes San Antonio, with its booming tourist scene, has the potential to become a significant film-industry hub alongside New York, Austin and Los Angeles.
Afterwards, Shaikh began delving into what it means to pursue passion over comfort. His personal decision to pursue acting amidst the career’s financial struggles was responsible for the lack of any immediate success. Experiences such as working menial jobs, dealing with horrible bosses and the many “glass ceilings” were all too common. However, instead of letting such hardships crush his spirits, he let it shape and influence his acting. Persistence and determination were crucial throughout his journey.
Shaikh began discussing the need for more ethnic and cultural representation in the media, urging marginalized communities to invest in the arts and join the industry at all levels. Being of Pakistani descent and growing up in a Muslim family, he understands the need for those like him to push artistic boundaries. He recounted a fan whose mother cried watching their show despite not relating to the culture. True storytelling, when it comes from the heart, can inspire anyone. That is why he urges those listening to tell their story truthfully and with conviction.
Shaikh’s receptivity towards the concerns of the future filmmakers in attendance reassured them that their pursuit was worthwhile. His way of life demonstrated a capacity that one can achieve anything.
