Beloved Children's TV Host Somboonchai Saegtong Dies at 78
Somboonchai Saegtong, the beloved Thai television host best known for the iconic children's show "Bozo-Uncle Chay," died of sudden cardiac failure at age 78 on August 7. His decades-long career spanned multiple networks and earned him prest
Somboonchai Saegtong, the renowned television host and producer behind numerous hit programs, has passed away. The entertainment community announced his death with deep sadness, noting the end of an era for the iconic duo Uncle Chay and Bozo that delighted generations of Thai children. He died on August 7, 2025, from sudden cardiac failure at age 78.
Dr. Somboonchai Saegtong was a celebrated broadcaster, producer, and creator of numerous television shows across Thailand's major networks since the early period of Thai television, including Channel 5, Channel 7, Channel 4, Channel 9, Channel 11, and Modern Nine TV. His extensive body of work spanned television dramas and variety programs, earning him prestigious honors in the Thai broadcasting industry, including a Golden Television Award for Outstanding Documentary and a Mekla Award for Outstanding Popular Women's Program.
Fans most fondly remember Saegtong for his role as Uncle Chay paired with Bozo the Clown in the hugely popular children's program "Bozo Show," which aired around 1971 on Channel 9. The show featured the main characters Bozo and Uncle Chay in entertaining performances and skits. The program's iconic theme song, "Bozo-Uncle Chay," composed by Chalie Intrawijit (National Artist), remains memorable to many, with the familiar lyrics: "If we smile, smile, smile at the world, the world will smile and welcome us back. How are you, little one? 'Bozo the Clown' is here!"
A merit-making ceremony in Saegtong's honor is scheduled at Wat Phra Sri Mahathat Woramas Mahawihar in Bangkok's Bang Khen district, beginning August 10, 2025, with activities continuing through August 17.
