BL is such a welcome and often times necessary distraction from reality. I decided to remind myself of why I fell in love with the genre. So naturally, like any mature adult, I'm making a list, of course.
*My unsolicited list of " my favorite BL actors":
This is not a ranking. Nonetheless, I'm giving the first mention to Mark Siwat. I have a soft spot for Mark. Of the actors I'll mention on this list, I think he's gotten the least recognition for how well he performs his craft.
Often times, BL actors very obviously get their opportunity because they fit the Thai beauty standards; i.e. light or fair skinned. While Mark does benefit from light skin privilege, no one can deny that he CAN ACT. My son is an actor! He has genuine talent.
From the first time I saw him in "I Am Your King", he caught my eye. The scene where New breaks up with August is my favorite from the series. Mark conveys August's disbelief and hurt with such sincerity. It's by no means a truly exceptional scene. It just stands out because it would have been so easy for Mark to over-act, but he held back
All of his performances are natural and effortless. That and, you can clearly see how he has zero trepidation about being intimate with his co-stars (emphasis on intimate not necessarily sexual). See gif below:
*can we just appreciate how beautifully these two fit into each other. I would love to see them together again. I mean, sweet wholesomeness aside; there's also the crazy chemistry.
I was so happy to see that he FINALLY got a leading role in "Bite Me". I'm waiting for the full season to air before I watch it.
Everything from his subtle, yet meaningful facial expressions, to the measured/controlled way he delivers his lines... Magic. He knows how to use his face, voice and body to convey every feeling that his character experiences.
2. Perth Tanapon Sukhumpantanasan
Next up is Perth. I mean, I don't think anyone needs convincing of Perth's acting abilities. That his acting debut was at 17 and he absolutely killed that role, is still amazing to me. Much like Mark, Perth is a naturally gifted actor. He just knows what he's doing. Talent galore.
Last I heard, he had decided to step back from BL. Which I completely respect. Regardless, his portrayal of Ae in "Love By Chance" and Krit in "the Stranded" earned him my respect for his acting abilities.
3. Gulf Kanawut Traipipattanapong
Need I say more? Gulf is one of those actors I will follow for the rest of his career (BL or not) because I genuinely love to watch him on screen.
No one else could have made Type redeemable. I can't bring myself to watch shows written by Mame anymore. But when I was watching "TharnType", I found myself thoroughly impressed by Gulf's ability to recite those cringy lines that Mame wrote. Only he could deliver those ridiculous lines with such earnestness; making them ALMOST believable, ALMOST romantic. ALMOST
4. Kao Noppakao Dechaphatthanakun
This is where I pause for a quick sidenote. I have to call myself out here. 😬 Given my history with BL shows that very obviously hire actors for their looks and not talent (or dedication to telling a good story) *throws shade* I prejudged Kao. He's just, too traditionally good-looking. Too handsome. Too "leading man". Am I making sense? I kinda thought he'd be one of those; make one BL show, put in miminal effort, skate by on his looks, make a name for himself, garner a captured audience, then bounce.
I stand humbly and unbegrudgingly corrected.
5. First Kanaphan Puitrakul
Okay, so First isn't really a BL actor. I mean, he did one show that could kinda, maybe, possibly, if you don't think too hard about it, be considered a BL series. But ultimately, he isn't a prominent BL actor. That said, First can act! My boy is an actor. He's so good at comedy that I don't think the audience truly recognizes how talented he is. And effortlessly so.
Also, his smile! I hear angels sing and lose the feeling in my right toe when he smiles.
6. James Teeradon Supapunpinyo
His inclusion on this list does not warrant further elaboration. James is an around performer. He's so talented and it's undeniable.
7. Ohm Pawat Chittsawangdee
The first role I saw Ohm in was Frame in "Make It Right". He was a baby. I still question how appropriate it was for him to play Frame at that age (or at all), but thats not why we're here.
Ohm has definitely grown as an actor. You need only watch "He's Coming to Me" to see his range. However, his inclusion on this list is primarily for his almost supernatural ability to have intense chemistry with anyone and everyone he shares the screen with. It's to the point where I question whether he does it on purpose ,or if his aura is just that magnetic. All Ohm has to do is make eye contact with his co-star and a ship is born.
8. War Wanarat Ratsameerat
Last but by no means least is War. War's performance in "En of Love" was the shows saving grace. Mark, Perth and War have a similar vibe in that they don't have to over-act in order to convey emotions.
I hope to see War in more shows going forward because he is entirely deserving of success in the acting world.
These are my faves. So talented. So appreciated
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