Santhanam spoke at length at today's promotional event for his upcoming film DD Next Level. The film's lead actor, Santhanam expressed his gratitude to his longtime friend and co-star Silambarasan TR, for introducing him into cinema. The actor said that Silambarasan gave him a break in the 2004 film Manmadhan, where he played a bald character. "I wouldn't be here if it was not for him. He brought me to cinema," said Santhanam referring to Silambarasan. The actor said that Silambarasan paved his way to Manmadhan after watching his performance in Kadhal Azhivathillai. He then reminisced about his past days with the Vijay TV show Lollu Sabha and with the Maanaadu star. "I asked him whether the audience would clap for my character in the theatre. He said 'Lollu Sabha had reach with the audience, so they would definitely appreciate your performance'. The actor went on to add, "That love and care he had for me have not come down one bit."

Santhanam then talked about how much of the discussion involving Silambarasan's upcoming film STR 49 with director Ramkumar Balakrishnan revolved around his character. The actor added that he would support Silambarasan TR at all times, no matter what, and that STR 49 would exemplify it.

Santhanam also discussed how he forged a friendship with DD Next Level producer Arya. As he was about to start talking about it, the audience roared, and Santhanam quipped, "I have been paid money to speak here, so I must do it."