Entertainment Sunday Special – 'Trai' Praphapat's Massive Popularity Surge in a Decade Becomes an Unexpected Blessing
Actor Trai Praphapat surged to unexpected fame playing Phran Areht in the historical drama "Hongsa Wadi: The Last Duel," describing the sudden popularity as a reward after a decade of quiet work in acting.
An overwhelming wave of popularity has swept over talented actor 'Trai' Praphapat Srikhojrdeecha for his role as 'Phran Areht' in the epic historical series "Hongsa Wadi: The Last Duel" on Channel 31. The actor shared his thoughts on the unexpected fame, personal growth, and how he nearly considered giving up acting.
When asked about the massive response to his character, Trai expressed gratitude: "I'm truly thankful that everyone has come to support us in Hongsa Wadi. Thank you to all of you who love me in the role of Phran Areht. Thank you to Channel 31 executives for giving me this incredible opportunity. This is the highest honor of my life."
Regarding whether he anticipated such positive feedback, Trai revealed: "Not at all. As I grew older, I stopped having expectations about my work because disappointment would hurt too much. Instead, I focus on doing my absolute best with every opportunity I receive. Before filming, I trained intensely—fitness, martial training, horseback riding, sword fighting—everything from scratch. I even studied ancient Thai language and pronunciation to truly understand the character's heart."
Describing the intensity of his newfound fame, Trai said: "My face is everywhere on apps now. I'm not used to it. Friends tell me they see my face all day. People quote his line 'Mang Chi Chawa Fang Kha' to me constantly—at the market, convenience stores, gas stations. They call out 'Phran Areht' everywhere. I'm not comfortable with constant attention, though I'm more suited to acting in dramas than dealing with real-life fame. Even meeting fans in person makes me shy."
He also described his awkward moment at the fan club gathering at Grammy Building: "I wasn't myself at all. But even though public appearances aren't my strength, I realize it brings joy and entertainment to my fans. I've learned that in 10 years of acting, I never had to deal with things like fan chants and special gestures. My castmates like Obeey, Pingping, Puma, and In taught me everything. I admit I wasn't prepared for this level of social media engagement."
When asked if he's ready to engage with fans, Trai responded: "I see so much fan service happening. It's about giving them happiness. If you want something, you must give it first."
Reflecting on the dramatic shift from his previous career, Trai noted: "This is completely different from my acting work before. I don't have to do fan gestures or appear at photo booths—just be myself. But now I need to adapt and evolve with the times. After exactly ten years, I've encountered this fan phenomenon."
When asked if this is a gift, Trai corrected: "I'd say it's more like a reward—an unexpected reward I never anticipated. Truthfully, when so many people approach me on the street, I feel awkward. But seeing myself in social media and experiencing things I never encountered in 10 years of acting, it feels like validation that I'm on the right path in my career."
