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, Thaana Serndha Kootam and Kolaigaran.