Matthew Sato

from Rival Magazine LA Issue 12: Featuring Taryn Manning

by rivalmagazinela

Troy Johnson

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Shirt: William lei Suit: KEISER Clark Shoes: Calvin Klein

Matthew Sato

By: Ashley Vitarelli

When searching for the future of the industry, look no further than Matthew Sato. Indeed, the young actor’s talent knows no bounds, shining bright in whatever endeavor he embarks on. From appearing on revered shows such as Hawaii Five-0, Chicken Girls, Side Hustle, and Chad, to starring in the hit Disney+ show Doogie Kamealoha, M.D., Sato consistently embodies what it means to be an artist and represents the future of the business. All eyes are locked on the phenomenal rising force that is Matthew Sato, and he is only just getting started.

“I had a great childhood growing up on Oahu with a loving family,” Sato reflects. “Many people dream their whole lives about coming to Hawaii for a vacation. I feel so lucky that I was born and raised in this beautiful state.” Moreover, Sato’s upbringing in Hawaii also provided him with the opportunity to discover his passion and then work to pursue it. “Watching my favorite shows on television at a young age inspired me to pursue my dreams to be an actor,” he explains. “My parents were always supportive of me and my goals. I started attending acting workshops at the age of twelve and my agent started sending me to auditions. At the age of thirteen, I landed my first principal role on Hawaii Five-0. It was during that experience that I realized that I wanted to pursue acting as a full-time career.” From there, Sato lent his talents to other hit shows like Chicken Girls, Side Hustle, and Chad, all projects that helped him continue to grow as an actor and refine his craft. “Each production that I worked on was a valuable learning experience in the acting industry,” Sato shares. “Every project was different and each role that I was cast in required me to adjust mentally for the character. I feel that I progressed as an actor in each role that I portrayed.”

Such artistic progression would prove invaluable come 2021, when a new audition came Sato’s way. “I auditioned for Doogie Kamealoha, M.D. in early 2021 when COVID was at its peak,” Sato recalls. “There were no in-person auditions, so my audition was via Zoom. That lead to me being selected to do a chemistry read, which was also via Zoom. When I received the call confirming that I got the role of Kai, I was thrilled.”

Indeed, the lovable character of Kai Kamealoha seems practically made for Matthew Sato, with the two sharing many similarities. “Kai is the freespirited older brother to Lahela “Doogie” Kamealoha, a sixteen year old prodigy,” Sato explains. “I’m her teenage mentor, always ready with big-brother advice. Kai is a likable character with strong

family ties that enjoys life, which is a reflection of me.” Additionally, Kai and Sato also have one big commonality: Hawaii. “I love working on a series based in Hawaii that showcases my beautiful home,” Sato shares. “And then on my off-days, getting to enjoy my hobbies of fishing, hiking and being with my family is a dream-come-true.”

Undoubtedly, just about every aspect of working on a show such as Doogie Kamealoha, M.D. is a dream come true, from fostering friendships on set to continuing the legacy of an iconic television program — and even early production wake-up calls. “Early call-times are typical when filming and being prepared is always important,” Sato says of a typical day on set. “Working with this great cast in Doogie Kamealoha, M.D. and sharing the close camaraderie that we have provides memorable moments every day. I am honored to be a part of a series that continues a legacy. Hopefully the fan base of the original Doogie Howser, M.D. will tune into Doogie Kamealoha, M.D. and enjoy it, too. I feel that this show offers family entertainment that is appealing to all ages. I have so much respect for Disney+ and I am grateful that I am able to work on one of their shows. I really connect to the role of Kai and I appreciate this wonderful opportunity.”

In addition to being a skilled creative in front of the camera, Sato’s prowess also includes working behind the camera. “I enjoy learning and experiencing every aspect of filming and acting, whether it is in front of the camera or behind the camera,” he shares. “I am passionate about the film industry.” Moreover, this interest in the industry then inspired Sato to attend film school following high school. “Attending film school provided me with an education in the industry that is a backbone for my passions,” Sato reflects. “Anytime you can enhance your knowledge in this business, go for it.”

While Matthew Sato’s star continues to rise in the industry and his success presses on, one thing has remained admirably consistent for the young talent: his keen perspectives and strong values. “It’s fun doing what I love, but I have learned that you need to prioritize and create a balance in life,” Sato shares. “I try to balance my responsibilities and also take time to enjoy my personal hobbies, along with spending time with my family, friends and my dogs. I think that if you don’t find that balance, you are setting yourself up for a major burn-out.” Indeed, Sato’s powerful perspectives are reflective of his upbeat outlook on life. “My outlook on life is very positive and optimistic,” Sato says. “Growing up in Hawaii has influenced me to appreciate the beauty of the ocean, nature, and the “Aloha Spirit” of the people. I carry this feeling with me wherever I go and in whatever I do. I’m proud to represent Hawaii.”

Such perspectives — along with his performances and portrayal of lovable characters on screen — serve as inspiration to people everywhere, meanwhile Sato himself finds inspiration from a variety of different spaces. “My family has always supported me in my goals as an actor and they have inspired me to be successful professionally and in my personal life,” Sato shares. “Being from Hawaii also motivates me to represent my home state proudly in everything that I do. The heartwarming support from the people of Hawaii is a unique feeling that keeps me determined on my journey in life.” In turn, Sato then reciprocates that support, routinely getting involved with local charities and organizations that he is passionate about. “I try to give back to my community whenever I can,” he says. “Recently, I promoted a pet adoption at the Hawaiian Humane Society and I also provided promotional support for the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Hawaii.”

Reflecting on his career so far and looking forward to the future, Sato has fond memories to cherish and exciting goals to achieve. “Meeting and working with great actors is very rewarding,” Sato says of what he enjoys most about his career. “I learn so much from legendary actors like James Hong and Jason Scott Lee. The friendships that are created during each production that I work on will forever be cherished. There are many special memories for me that I will always remember and I look forward to creating more special moments in the future.” As for specific special moments in the future, “I was privileged to work on season two of the reboot of Saved By The Bell this past summer in a recurring role,” Sato shares. “This series will premiere on Peacock on November 24. I also sincerely hope that Doogie Kamealoha, M.D. will return for a second season and film in Hawaii in 2022. I look forward to working with this talented cast again and I am excited to work on future projects.”

Given his impressive resume, wise perspectives, and sheer talent, it is clear that Matthew Sato is well on

his way to dominating the industry. Likewise, Sato is an excellent role model for anyone hoping to, like him, pursue their passions and make their dreams a reality. “I encourage anyone that is passionate about acting and the film industry to pursue it,” Sato advises. “Be prepared to work hard and don’t get discouraged. You will have to overcome numerous challenges along the way, and success will not happen overnight. It is important to stay positive, stay focused, and never give up. Remain humble and be grateful to everyone that you encounter on your path in life.”

From Hawaii to the world of Doogie Kamealoha, M.D. and beyond, Matthew Sato’s talent shines bright. Summed up, Sato represents the industry’s next generation, with his acting prowess and perspectives as an artist leading the industry into a welcomed new era. Fittingly, Sato plans to continue to evolve in this new era, all the while leading by example and embodying what it means to be a star. In truth, this is only the beginning for the skilled Matthew Sato. “Whatever career you select in your life, a person should never stop trying to develop and improve their craft,” Sato says. “I strongly believe in this motto and I intend to continue to always learn from experience and constantly better myself as an actor and in the film industry. I believe the arts of acting, music, and storytelling are all gifts in life to us, and how we share these gifts with each other is where the power lies.”