On Chasing Life, 24 year old actor Abhi Sinha plays Danny, April’s goofy and well-meaning coworker. Adding a tangible sense of reality and accessibility to the show, Sinha is no stranger to the limelight, having appeared in several other successful TV ventures as well as the David Fincher masterpiece The Social Network. Here, Abhi sat down with us to discuss his new show, its ‘heavy’ subject matter, and Jeff Goldblum.

Photo by Lesley Bryce

YOUNG ADULT: Hi Abhi! What drew you to Chasing Life?

Abhi Sinha: It’s a pretty heavy themed show dealing with cancer and disease in the face of a competitive world.  I think the writers did a fantastic job of making the show lighthearted.  My character Danny is completely oblivious to what is going on and is so focused on the competition.   Also, the fact that April and he share a good rapport despite his complete lack of social skills, makes him somewhat endearing.  Maybe?

YA: What are you looking forward to most as this show hits the air?

AS: Hopefully the ratings! Just kidding.  I am looking forward to the success of a very well written show.   

YA: Any secrets you can let us in on, or promises you can make plot-wise?

AS: Only that once Danny does find out abut April’s illness, there will be a softer side to him. But hopefully he will still be liked, despite being a clueless jerk at times. 

YA: What do you feel viewers will respond to most about the show?

AS: The show will encompass many relevant themes.  Cancer, of course, is at the center; but family turmoil, flaws in the so-called  “perfect family,” how to live a life and have-it-all despite obstacles, are all explored.  The show will also appeal to a large audience spanning many generations…from teens to people in their 40’s 50’s and 60’s thanks to a range of such characters as well.  This is pretty rare.

YA: You’ve been involved in some pretty iconic projects – any standout experiences from your involvement in Greek, Melissa & Joey, or the excellent film The Social Network?

AS: It’s funny because my role in Greek was one that most actors starting out would like to forget.  I played the “Cheesarito Man.” …I remember Sean Smith telling me this on the set of Greek, and now he’s the producer/showrunner of Chasing Life. And he actually remembered me! It’s funny how things kinda come full circle.  

Photo by Lesley Bryce

YA: Which medium do you enjoy working in the most: TV or film?

AS: I think it’s easier to form relationships on a TV show if it’s steady work, and as an actor you get to work with the same people day after day.  In a business like this, it’s important to have good friends and build solid relationships, both personal and professional.  However, films can often be a platform for a broader range of talent and audience as well.

YA: What would you love to be involved in next?

AS: I would love to be involved in a project that showcases my abilities as a musician or athlete.  I grew up with a love of sports and music and would love to do a project that involves either or both.  I would also LOVE to work with Jeff Goldblum.  Not only is he from my hometown of Pittsburgh, he’s brilliant and I’ve always been a huge fan!

YA: If you could pick any iconic YA role in the history of film or television to have played yourself, whom would it be and why? 

AS: I would love to do a historical biopic, such as a movie about Prince Siddhartha (the Buddha).  I think we see a lot of Buddhas everywhere, but many people in the West don’t really know a lot about the history of The Buddha and his teachings—how he was an Indian prince who gave up worldly goods to become a sage, and how Buddhism spread to the far east from India.