Entertainment Figures Pay Respects at Ray McDonald's Third Night Wake
Entertainment industry figures gathered for the third night of chanting ceremonies for beloved actor Ray McDonald at a Bangkok temple on August 22, following his sudden death at home three days earlier. Colleagues wore orange, his favorite
On August 22, 2025, the third night of chanting ceremonies for beloved actor and host Ray McDonald was held at Wat Yang, a royal temple in Bangkok. The atmosphere remained filled with grief from family, friends, and entertainment industry colleagues following Ray's sudden death at his home in the Pattanakarn area on August 19.
The hall overflowed with wreaths and floral tributes from admirers, including fresh flowers, paper flowers, wreaths donated to various charities, potted plants, fans, and bicycles. Fans united in wearing orange—Ray's favorite color and the color of the Rerorn logo—as a symbol of love and connection. Nearly 20 friends who had ridden Vespas with Ray also gathered to pay tribute, reflecting the deep friendship they shared.
The ceremony was hosted by GMM Grammy, with numerous entertainment personalities attending, including Om Sunicha, Chakrit Yamnam with his wife Ann Phattira and son Podi, Nap Pornchai, Gob Thongsit, Cindy Bishop, Kathriya English, Peter Corp, Louis Scott, Noon Romida, Lek Busaba, Noon Siripan, Lukkaed Metinee, Mike Kinkopom, Pae Arak, Pelae Christopher, and Som Sukhpat.
After the ceremony, Lukkaed Metinee and Mike Kinkopom, both entertainment figures who grew up in the 1990s and had worked with Ray, spoke openly about their friend's passing. Lukkaed admitted feeling heartbroken, saying that although they hadn't seen each other in a long time, every encounter was filled with conversation and laughter. He normally doesn't attend funerals, but felt compelled to say goodbye to his friend one last time.
Mike shared that when he first arrived in Thailand, he frequently worked with Ray on modeling and television shows. Ray had been supportive and offered guidance throughout. Despite not seeing each other for nearly 20 years, Mike said their bond remained unchanged—they talked like old friends whenever they reunited.
When asked about attending the ceremony, Lukkaed said: "I came to bid farewell to a friend. My heart is heavy. We hadn't seen each other for a long time, but whenever we met, we would laugh together. We worked together and appeared in films and television programs. Mike probably knew Ray better than I did, as we both grew up in the 1990s."
Mike responded: "When I came to Thailand, I worked with Ray often—modeling and television appearances together. I'm deeply saddened by what happened. I came today to give strength and support to his family. Like Lukkaed said, we hadn't seen each other in nearly 20 years, but when we got together, we talked like we'd always been friends."
Lukkaed added: "Ray's mother must be suffering greatly, and she has young children. We can only tell her to stay strong and believe that everyone is giving her courage. Whether it's the mother or the children, they must continue to be strong—for the sake of the children."
When asked what it was like working together, Mike said: "Ray was such a lovely person. When I first came to Thailand, he took care of me and constantly offered guidance. He was excellent at looking after younger people. I'm truly heartbroken."
Lukkaed reflected: "Ray was funny and always had something to talk about. Whether we were on a film set, whether it was late at night or early in the morning, he never complained. He'd always find something to discuss, and we'd eat together. He was someone who...
