With a BMM degree and a keen interest in the film industry, Sathyan made his debut in 2000 with the Tamil movie Ilaiyavan, playing the lead role alongside Kausalya. Hailing from a family that is largely a part of the film industry, Sathyan is the son of producer Mathampatti Sivakumar, nephew of actor Sathyaraj, and cousin of Sibiraj. Although he started his career with a lead role, he is best known for playing supporting yet important roles, most of which are comical.
In a career ranging close to two decades, Sathyan has appeared in movies such as Ghajini, Santhosh Subramaniyam, Rowthiram, Nanban, Thuppakki, Moondru Per Moondru Kadal, Puli, 24, Mersal, and Thaana Serndha Kootam.