From Suit Salesman to Comedy Star: A Surreal Journey
In an unexpected career twist, Rohan Mehta, a 34-year-old suit salesman from Mumbai, found himself starring alongside comedy legend Tim Robinson (I Think You Should Leave) in Netflix’s viral sketch series The Chair Company. With zero acting experience, Mehta delivered a breakout performance—deadpan humor and all.
Speaking to NextMinuteNews, Mehta reflected on the surreal shift from selling suits to performing absurdist comedy: “One day I’m explaining wool blends, the next I’m ranting about ergonomic chairs. Life’s weird.”
How a Casting Call Changed Everything
Mehta’s acting debut happened by chance when a casting director visited his showroom, searching for “serious, non-actor types.” The role? A corporate stooge who spirals into chair obsession.
“They wanted someone who could keep a straight face while everything goes insane,” Mehta recalled. “Turns out, years of nodding through client fabric rants prepared me well.”
Robinson, known for his improv genius, immediately clicked with Mehta’s natural timing. “Tim made me feel like I belonged—even when I blanked mid-scene.”
Acting for the First Time (With His Wife Watching)
Mehta’s biggest fear? Messing up in front of his wife, Priya, who was on set. “She’s my toughest critic. If I bombed, I’d never hear the end of it.”
During one take, Mehta froze—but Robinson turned it into comedy gold. “That’s when I realized why he’s a master. He turned my panic into a hilarious moment.”
The Sketch That Stole the Show
The episode, a satire of corporate chair fanaticism, has become a fan favorite, with Mehta’s clueless salesman earning praise. Could this lead to more roles?
“I’m not quitting suits,” he joked, “but if Tim calls again, I’ll be there—in a custom three-piece, of course.”
As for Priya’s review? “She said I was ‘not terrible.’ High praise from her!”
The Chair Company is now streaming, proving even a rookie can shine alongside comedy’s best.
— Reporting by NextMinuteNews
