David Mattar Merten - Actor of the Month for June 2026

1. Has there been a Casting Director who has really championed or supported you in your career journey?

Taylor Williams and Erica Jensen are who immediately come to mind. Two incredible women in this industry who really took the time to give me opportunities when others weren’t holding those same doors open for me. 

2. What is the project you’re most proud of, and why?

I am really proud of this short I recently wrapped called Movin’ on Up that takes the emptiness and performance of modern work culture and turns it into something theatrical, kinetic, and almost dreamlike. We were making this wildly choreographed, super intricate piece on an indie schedule, which honestly felt super on-brand for the whole “by the seat of your pants” story. It’s like an MGM musical meets getting too high at work. 

3. What or who inspired you to pursue acting as a career?

For me, it was the Angels In America miniseries on HBO. That changed my view on what is possible when you mix the theatrical with the world of film. It is also a major reason why I was inspired to pursue telling queer stories on screen and represent the diverse and talented field of queer performers.

4. What was your first IMDbPro credit and how did you feel when you saw it?

A queer web series called Queen’s English. It was the first film project in which I got to play a central role, and was a real baptism by fire for being in front of the camera and navigating a film set. I loved that experience and was really proud to see it live on my IMDbPro page.

5. How has IMDbPro helped you either to market yourself or connect with other industry professionals? 

For me, this site has been instrumental in connecting me with talent reps and casting directors, by letting me know the projects that are in development and helping me stay updated and on top of my game with their contact info and business affiliations.

6. Any funny or memorable casting room stories you can share?

Years ago, I had an epic full day callback for the long running New York production of The Blue Man Group. It was a wild full day of acting exercises and fully embodied movement work, but in the long run, I was grateful to be cut before I had to shave my head and paint myself blue...

7. If you could play any character in any movie, past or present, who would it be and why?

I would love to do Rupert Everett's role of George in My Best Friend's Wedding...peak rom-com heaven! I'd love to tackle the comedy and heart of that role for this current era. Plus, let me sing “I Say A Little Prayer” with an ensemble cast.

8. What show or movie that you’re currently watching or have watched countless times could you nerd out about forever?

What do you love about it? Oh, it's The Comeback forever and always. Valerie Cherish has changed my brain chemistry and made me feel so deeply seen as an actor, in the good, the bad, and the funny.

9. Tell us a fun fact about you outside of acting.

I love to collect vinyl records, especially vintage jazz!