Actor Khem Haswee Stars in Nakee 3, Prioritizes Self-Care

Actor Khem Haswee Pakpongpaisan collaborates with renowned director Off Pongpat Wachirabunjong in the film "Nakee 3: Krutha Nakee," starring opposite actress Ta-Neang Kanyawee Songmuang. Khem gave an interview about his work on the film, his experience with Off and Ta-Neang, and his increased attention to self-care to avoid becoming an outdated celebrity. He also spoke about keeping up with global trends, creating content across all platforms, showcasing his authentic self, and seeking side ventures beyond acting.

**Working with Director Off Pongpat** Khem: "I've been a fan of Off since childhood — his music, then his TV dramas and films. When Off and his wife Thanya contacted me, I felt secure about the work. I knew he wouldn't let me lose focus on my performance. I felt at ease; with Off directing, I knew I could let go of certain things to receive what's right for the craft and for life. Working together brought me great joy."

**Intimidated by a master director?** Khem: "Not intimidated, but I did heavy homework. Off told me to discard old habits and start fresh. Sometimes we act with familiar rhythms and blocking, but he'd say, 'Just walk as you feel it; I'll follow with the camera. I'll handle this part; you just understand your character and go.' Once on set, Off shared the lore — the Krut and Naga deities, conflicts of that era, the Tripitaka, various scriptures — painting a vivid picture that made the work much easier. No intimidation at all."

**His character** Khem: "I play Rachen, a soldier. He's not connected to the Krut deity; he's a soldier who reveres the Krut faith, while Ta-Neang's character reveres the Naga faith. They fight each other. It's a new generation compared to the gods played by Ken Phuphoom and Taeo Nattapol. We're just soldiers — skilled fighters, but love is complicated, a push-and-pull. Rachen is very human, feeling everything deeply in love, war, and determination. He knows exactly what he wants. The character has a lot of charming qualities."

**Chemistry with Ta-Neang** Khem: "I'm Thai, Ta-Neang is Chinese-Thai. Working together created a new chemistry and a fresh acting sensibility. Ta-Neang acts very realistically. We're used to blocking, but this was different. Once we committed to Nakee 3, we were both pulled into that era. She did extensive homework. Working together was nothing but fun and laughter. Our pieces fit perfectly — rhythm and pacing just right. Give it a chance; come see the new chemistry."

**Recent self-care and grooming** Khem: "I can't be an outsider celebrity anymore; I have to take better care of myself. I talked to elders who said, 'You're turning 30. Kids today are so ready to work. If you don't maintain yourself, you could fade.' Once you fade, it's hard to come back. So I'm trying for another year; if it works, I'll stay in the mainstream."

**Afraid of losing leading-man roles or being cast as a father?** Khem: "I'm not afraid of that.