Buzz with Danu - Damith Wijayathunga

This week on Buzz with Danu, we sit down with the charming and grounded star who went from Mister Sri Lanka to playing one of the country’s most beloved musical legends. From modeling ramps to emotional movie sets, he’s carved a path all his own—and he’s here to talk love, legacy, and the rhythm that changed everything. And my personal favorite feature is his beautiful smile it can sure melt hearts 

Let’s welcome the ever-humble and incredibly talented Damith Wijayathunga to the Buzz!

1. Mister Sri Lanka 2017—did you sign up thinking you’d win, or was it a “let’s see what happens” moment?

It was definitely a “let’s see what happens” moment. I had just started modeling and wanted to try something new. Winning the title in 2016 was unexpected and became the foundation for who I am today.

2. From pageants to prime time—what was the “aha!” moment that made you fall in love with acting?

When I started acting in Hadawathe Kathawa, I felt something click. It was a completely new way of connecting with people, and I really enjoyed bringing a character to life. That’s when I knew I wanted to do more of it.

3. Playing Clarence Wijewardena is no small gig. How did you prepare to embody such a musical icon?

Clarence is a legend, so I knew I had to give my best. I listened to his music, watched his performances, and learned about his life. I wanted to truly understand him, not just act like him.

4. What part of Clarence’s life story really struck a chord with you, personally?

His love for music and how he stayed true to it, even during tough times, really inspired me. I could relate to that, doing what you love, no matter what.

5. Were there moments during filming where you felt like you were truly becoming Clarence?

Yes, especially during the musical scenes. There were times when I felt completely in the zone, like I wasn’t acting, I was just feeling what he might have felt.

6. What was the most emotional scene for you to shoot in Rhythm of the Guitar—and did it hit differently when you saw it on screen?

There is a scene about loss that was very hard to act. In that scene, the song “Devathavan Sithana Dewal” is played. That part made me very emotional. It was not even a moment to cry, but I had tears while filming the scene.

When I watched it later with the music and emotions coming together, it felt even stronger. It reminded me how powerful simple moments can be.

7. Any fun or chaotic behind-the-scenes stories you can share from set? (We love a little drama!)

Oh yes—one day after we wrapped up shooting, the four of us—Dinakshi akki, Saranga aiya, Nihari, and I—just decided to hit the road and go on a trip to Ella. Totally unplanned! It was chaotic, full of laughs, music, random stops, and good vibes all the way. One of the best off-set memories for sure.

8. You’re carrying a legacy on your shoulders—did you ever feel pressure to “get it right”?

Yes, I felt it. But I took that pressure in a good way. It made me work harder and stay focused on giving the best performance I could.

9. If Clarence himself watched the film, what do you hope he’d say to you?

I hope he would smile quietly, maybe nod his head to the rhythm, and say, “You did not just act, you truly listened.” For someone like Clarence, whose soul lived in every chord he played, being truly heard would mean more than anything. That is what I tried to do, hear him, feel him, and let the audience feel the same.

I really wish he was here to watch the movie, not to give me feedback, but to see and feel the impact he has had on our industry and how much people still love his work.

10. You tied the knot recently—what’s married life like in the middle of all this stardom?

[This question has been skipped due to privacy reasons. Recommend replacing with a question about balancing personal life and work.]

11. When you’re not acting or working, what’s your version of a perfect day off?

A quiet day, go for a jog, listen to music, and just relaxing. Specially these days sleeping is very important as I don’t get time to have a proper rest.

12. What grounds you when life gets too loud—family, food, or a good playlist?

Maybe hitting the gym. Working out helps me clear my mind and find balance in the noise.

13. First audition—disaster or delight?

A bit of both! I had the energy and was excited, but I made a few mistakes. Still, I learned a lot that day, and that helped me grow. I’m grateful to director Mr. Theja Iddamalgoda for believing in me from the very beginning. Very sad that he is not here to see the results we are getting and the love we are getting for the movie.

14. One role you’d never take, no matter how much they paid you?

Any role that goes against my values or something that I feel uncomfortable with. I always want to be proud of the work I do.

15. Finally, complete this: “People think I’m ____, but I’m actually ____.”

People think I’m all about fashion and cameras, but I’m actually a simple guy who’s happiest in a plain t-shirt, listening to old-school music.