Madhavan, a popular T.V. star of 'Saaya', 'Sea Hawks', 'Banegi Apni Baat', 'Ghar Jamai' was introduced to films by Srinivas who was assistant director to Mani Ratnam. His debut film was 'Shanthi Shanthi Shanthi' in Kannada. Cinematographer/Director Santosh Sivan saw him during the shoot of an Ad film for 'Ponds' and introduced him to the famous director Mani Ratnam.

Maddy captured the role as the the lovelorn husband Karthik, in 'Alaipayuthey', directed by Mani Ratnam, with the relish of a star. This film gave him a break in Tamil cinema. And after Gautham Menon’s 'Minnale' he became hot among the teen brigade. Madhavan has in him, the charm that always puts others at ease. It is this charm of the boyish "Maddy" that makes him the most loved hero in Tamil cinema today. The actor has evolved into the higher echelons of acting, having acted under some of the most eminent directors in the field.

Madhavan is happily married to Saritha, a former airhostess whom he married after 3 years of committed courtship. He is very much a family person who likes to spend quality time with his family, visiting his parents, playing golf, spending time with his pet dogs.

Madhavan made his debut as a hero in Hindi movies in 'Rehna Hai Tere Dil Mein', the Hindi remake of the super hit Tamil movie 'Minnale'. Madhavan has acted as the main hero in a hand full of big budget films by reputed directors. His famous films are Ennavale, Minnale, Pammal Ke Sambandham, Run, Dumm Dumm Dumm. Somewhere along the line, Madhavan decided to do serious roles like the ones in Paarthale Paravasam, Kannathil Muthamittal and Aaitha Ezhuthu which was critically acclaimed and recognised him as a versatile actor.