Dew, born Jirawat Sutivanisak, is not your ordinary Thai idol. "I never dreamt that one day I'll become the actor I am today," says the 22-year old actor who has amassed a legion of devout followers - seemingly overnight - a little over a year ago with the release of GMMTV's F4 Thailand: Boys Over Flowers. The series marks the fourth adaptation of the cult teenage phenomenon: its source derives from the Japanese manga of the same name (Hana Yori Dango), before its Taiwanese (Meteor Garden), Korean (Boys Over Flowers) and Chinese (Meteor Garden) adaptations cemented the series as an instant classic amongst young audiences. Each release is significant, considering that an adaptation signals the start of a pop culture renaissance in each country. In Taiwan, its regional popularity paved the way for its entertainment industry; while in Korea, it became a hallmark moment in the rise of the Korean wave - also known as the Hallyu wave.
What does it mean for Jirawat then, who only had his acting debut through the series? It represents a guaranteed hit. History has shown that every actor that has starred in the adaptations became household names, not just within their local industries, but in the region and beyond.
This story is from the February 2023 edition of MEN'S FOLIO Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the February 2023 edition of MEN'S FOLIO Malaysia.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
Forged in Steel
Franck Muller celebrates Sincere Fine Watches’ 7Oth anniversary with avery special Vanguard.
Made For Modern Life
The Volvo EX30 is the much-needed vehicle for a joyful and fuss-free ride.
Eastern Charm
With a blazing display of KARLS Group's culinary bravura, the Upper House KL gives classic Asian flavours a modern twist.
When Worlds Collide
Where revered tradition meets unceasing imagination, Hennessy has teamed up with French artist Jean-Michel Othoniel for its latest collaboration.
Business Means Business: Cathay Pacific
With the return of flights, and the additional of new ones, there is little reason to doubt that doing a stopover in Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific to any destination in the world from ASEAN is the best decision one might make in their lifetime. Plus, its concrete Business and Premium Economy Class offerings, and world-renowned lounges in HKIA make travelling on the Hong Kong-based airline an experience via a stopover, rather than a chore.
Malaysia's New Zenith
Celebrating the first Malaysian Zenith boutique in The Exchange TRX.
Two-Timing
Cartier's timekeeping greats for 2024 range from the classic to the experimental.
Racing Through Time
Celebrating Rolex’s timeless relationship with motor racing.
A Man And His Watch
Men's Folio Malaysia speaks to watch collectors about the first watch that drew them into the hobby.
A Cartoon's Charm
Cartoon watches might seem childish but there are reasons to feel otherwise, especially if the nostalgia transports one back to childhood days.
