Donnavon Madaran is a Dutch actor with Indian-Surinamese roots, born in Leidschendam-Voorburg, the Netherlands. Known for his versatility and charisma, Madaran has already made waves in the film industry with a series of impressive performances.

In 2024, he starred as Geo in the critically acclaimed short film RELEASE, where he brought warmth, openness, and sensuality to the role. The film premiered at Amsterdam’s Roze Filmdagen, the largest queer film festival in the Netherlands, and was supported by the Netherlands Film Fund.

Madaran’s talent shone again in Esper (2024), where he portrayed the introspective lead Dries. This film debuted at the Limburg Film Festival and further solidified his reputation as a rising star. He also starred as Steve in the feature film Out (2024), which premiered at Frameline, the most prestigious queer film festival in the world.

Adding to his accomplishments, Madaran starred in Nachtrood (2024), which had its international debut at the Femme Filth Fest in Los Angeles in 2025. His earlier work includes Purple Heaven, a project by talented students of the Netherlands Film Academy, where he played Adam; and I Saw You First (2023), where his performance as Daan received widespread praise. In 2021, Madaran also appeared in the short film Hantu, showcased at the Dutch Film Festival and supported by the Netherlands Film Fund.

When Madaran is not on set, he hones his craft at the Method Acting Studio Amsterdam, studying under renowned acting coach André Landzaat, a member of the Actors Studio in Los Angeles and New York. Landzaat has worked with legends such as Shelley Winters, Robert De Niro, and Al Pacino. Landzaat’s mentorship has shaped Madaran’s profound dedication to his craft. To see the recommendation letter of André Landzaat about Donnavon Madaran, click here.

Madaran’s passion for acting began in The Hague, where, at just 11 years old, he was cast in the musical Mo & Juliët (2010). This experience inspired him to enroll at The Youth Theatre School Rabarber, where he performed in several professional musicals, including Little Sophie (2015) and Once Upon A Time There Were Three Little Wolves (2016). In 2018, he joined the Talent Class of The Theatre Master (De Toneelmeester) in Amsterdam, where he trained under award-winning actors and directors, mastering improvisation, characterization, and script analysis.

Beyond acting, Madaran is an accomplished dancer specializing in hip hop, commercial, and heels. He has performed at a competitive level and has a background in judo and karate. After enrolling in the filmmaking program of the Netherlands Film Academy in Amsterdam, he’s also ventured into writing and directing, with two original short films currently in pre-production.

Madaran’s commitment extends beyond his artistic pursuits. As an advocate for queer and women’s rights, he strives to use his platform to create a positive impact and tell stories that resonate deeply with underrepresented communities.