" When I started, there were no Indians on television or films, except for Sir Ben Kingsley. I was an actor in high school, college, and I played leads. And when I graduated, I knew that I couldn’t go to Hollywood and audition for shows or films. I could try, but where was the evidence that it was going to happen? "
- Jay Chandrasekhar

In the given quote, Jay Chandrasekhar reflects on his early career challenges as an Indian actor aspiring to work in Hollywood during a time when there were few visible South Asian roles or actors. He shares that he had a successful background in acting from high school through college and even played lead roles. However, upon graduating, he realized the stark reality of limited opportunities for someone like him due to his ethnic background.

Chandrasekhar’s statement delves deeper into broader issues of representation and opportunity in entertainment industries. He highlights the struggle many underrepresented groups face when trying to break into fields dominated by a different demographic. The quote suggests that while talent and dedication are crucial, they might not be enough if there is no evidence or precedent suggesting success for individuals from similar backgrounds. It also touches on the importance of role models and representation in fostering confidence and opening doors for future generations.

Jay Chandrasekhar is an Indian-American filmmaker, comedian, and actor known for his work as a founding member of the comedy group Broken Lizard. He has been active in both film and television production since the early 2000s, contributing significantly to the entertainment industry despite facing challenges due to underrepresentation.