What's On The Outside?

For Thai actor and host "Tay" Tawan Vihokratana, charming an audience takes more than just pretty looks as fans have gone head over heels over his absent-mind yet authentic demeanour.

- MANFRED LU

During “Tay” Tawan Vihokratana’s brief stint in Room Alone  in 2014, the Bangkok-born actor gained widespread attention that would make him a mainstay in Thailand’s public eye — but not for the reasons you might expect. His well-proportioned looks? Perhaps. Charming demeanour? Close. To better understand Tay Tawan’s true appeal would require some answers from the audience that have paved the way for his acting career and his better-known hosting pursuits. “Goofy”, “quirky”, and “in his world” are just some words that are heavily associated with the 31-year-old and together with the numerous co-stars and GMMTV colleagues who have helped pushed Thai Wind (the term affectionately associated with the phenomenon of Thai celebrity-culture expansion), Tay Tawan have started to open up and show even more character over the past few years. While star factor is often talked about since Thai Wind imploded on the scene, it is hard not to see why being his wayward self has made millions go head over heels in pursuit of a talent who feels more like a long-distance friend rather than a celebrity.

Why did you decide to venture into hosting and acting when you were younger?

I was just looking for a side hustle to earn an additional income while studying. It was an opportunity to step out of my comfort zone and try my hand at things I may not have been good at before. 

 You studied economics before you began your hosting/acting career, and seeing that you are involved in several business ventures as well, would you say your time in school has helped? How have these businesses been going for you?