Jason Tham – Dance Led Me to Acting, and I Never Looked Back (Choreographer, Just Dance Finalist, Indian/Chinese/American)

"Acting is seasonal, and the real challenge is knowing what to do when you're not on set. Every skill you learn today prepares you for the role you'll play tomorrow."

1. Beyond being a dancer, choreographer, and actor, how would you introduce yourself?

I would call myself a Lil’ Chef, as I have a deep passion for exploring and creating global cuisines. Cooking is not just a hobby for me—it’s a form of creative expression, much like dance and acting. The joy of blending flavors and experimenting with different cuisines excites me just as much as performing on stage or in front of a camera.

2. How did Just Dance shape your career?

Just Dance was a turning point in my career, as it introduced me to industry legends like Hrithik Roshan, Farah Khan, Vaibhavi Merchant, and Terence Lewis. It was my first real exposure to the competitive reality industry, and it not only sharpened my skills but also expanded my professional network. Through this platform, I connected with many influential people in the entertainment world, which broadened my vision as a choreographer and opened doors for my growth as an artist.

3. How was the experience of blending acting and dance in Dil Dosti Dance?

Dil Dosti Dance will always hold a special place in my heart. It was my first television show, and being a dancer at the time, I was introduced to acting through this project. The transition from a performer to an actor was both challenging and exciting, and it ultimately inspired me to pursue acting as a full-time career. The show gave me a clear sense of direction, shaping my identity as an artist.

4. What has been your most challenging yet rewarding experience so far?

The most challenging aspect of being an actor is patience—especially during phases when work is slow. Unlike dance, where I could constantly train and refine my skills, acting is seasonal, and there are moments of uncertainty. During these periods, I make it a point to invest in self-growth, whether it’s learning a new skill, reading, or working on my craft. I believe that everything I learn eventually contributes to my next role, making every challenge a rewarding experience in the long run.

5. Which dance style excites you the most right now?

Right now, I am most fascinated by Afro dance. It’s not just about movement but also about attitude, rhythm, and cultural expression. The style is incredibly dynamic, allowing dancers to blend raw energy with intricate footwork, making it both a challenge and a thrill to perform.

6. What kind of roles challenge you the most as an actor?

I find negative roles the most challenging because they have the deepest layers of complexity. No one is born an antagonist—it's their experiences, circumstances, and psychological journey that shape them. Bringing that depth to life on screen requires a lot of emotional exploration, which is both demanding and creatively fulfilling.

7. What’s one lesson from your dancing days that still helps you in acting?

One of the biggest advantages of having a dance background is body awareness, especially when it comes to physical interactions on screen. Many actors struggle with natural touch, whether it’s a consoling gesture or an intimate scene. For me, dance has erased that hesitation, making such moments feel organic rather than staged. This comfort with movement allows me to focus entirely on the emotions in a scene rather than the mechanics of physicality.

8. If you could share the screen with any actor, who would it be and why?

I would love to share screen space with Denzel Washington. He is not only an incredible actor but also a gifted storyteller and a deeply insightful human being. His performances are marked by spontaneity, wit, and effortless intensity, which makes him a master of his craft. There’s so much to learn from the way he approaches his characters, and I believe working alongside him would be an invaluable learning experience.

Bio:

Jason Tham is an Indian actor, choreographer, and dancer known for his versatility in the entertainment industry. Born in New York and raised in India, he gained national recognition as a finalist on Just Dance, where he showcased his exceptional dance skills. His breakthrough came with Dil Dosti Dance, a show that not only highlighted his talent as a dancer but also introduced him to acting.

Over the years, Jason has been a part of popular TV shows and films, proving his ability to blend movement and performance effortlessly. With a deep-rooted passion for creativity—both on stage and screen—he continues to push his artistic boundaries. Beyond his career in entertainment, he is also an avid foodie, embracing his love for global cuisine as a self-proclaimed “Lil’ Chef.”

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Interviewed by: Shantanu Singh 

Edited by: Shantanu Singh