He is the human epitome of fine wine; ageing well takes on a new meaning in the case of actor R Madhavan. From chocolate boy to Greek God, his transformation has made millions of women swoon even as his acting prowess continues to impress.

Maddy will now be seen as the host of National Geographic’s new series – Mega Icons, which premieres on September 24. Rajitha Menon spoke to the actor to learn more.

What made you say yes to the show ‘Mega Icons’?

It was an opportunity to observe, in close quarters, how these mega icons were made.

Were they born with these qualities or was it the decisions they took or was it their conditioning? In today’s world, where one faces numerous hurdles, it is important to know how these people would have faced such challenges. 

Which interaction did you enjoy the most?

The unique part of the show is that I didn’t have to interact with the icons themselves.

They were interviewed and we observed their answers and had psychiatrists and other people analyse what they said to figure out the cause of their success. 

What part of the show did you enjoy the most?

Learning about what they were saying, observing how they handled every situation and realising which part of it was DNA and which part was hard work.

Current projects?

I am doing a biopic on former ISRO scientist Nambi Narayanan.

That is the all-consuming project that I am working on right now. It’s in three languages so I really don’t have the time for anything else. 

Which format do you like the most- web series, TV shows or movies? 

It really doesn’t matter because they are all rewarding. Money wise maybe a movie is the most rewarding but over a period of time you realise that the longevity of what you have done and the appreciation you receive from across the world is far more important.

Right now, it has become so challenging that you can’t afford to take one lighter than the other. Each of them is equally important. But I definitely enjoy being in a movie the most.

Out of all the characters you have played so far, which one is closest to your heart?

The one that I am going to do (the scientist). I feel the challenges that both of us faced in our lives are almost the same. 

How did the shower selfie happen?

One day my wife asked me if I had put on weight. I said no and sent her the shower selfie. She looked at it and said ‘Well, you are looking nice’. Then I put it on the internet but we really didn’t think it would go viral. 

After it went viral, what did she say?

Behave your age (laughs)

The craziest fan reaction so far?

A man wanted me to tie the mangalsutra on another fan, who also happened to be his wife! 

One thing about you that not many people know...

Well if they don’t know about it already, I am not going to tell them now. (laughs) Well, if I have to say something — I sometimes sneak down at night for a midnight snack.