Nadech Kugimiya: Superstar with a humble heart

Nadech Kugimiya is one of Thailand’s most sought-after actors. Loved not only for his onscreen performances but also for his down-to-earth nature and simple lifestyle, he has earned a special place in the hearts of fans. His latest horror film, Death Whisperer 2, became one of 2024’s top-performing films in Thailand, solidifying his status as a leading figure in Thai entertainment.
Nadech was born on 17 December 1991 in Khon Kaen province, Thailand. The Thai-Austrian actor was adopted by Yoshio and Sudarat Kugimiya. He completed high school at Khon Kaen International School and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in film and cinematography from Rangsit University. Nadech later earned a master’s degree.
Before venturing into acting, Nadech started his career in modelling. His first television commercial was for chewing gum at 17. He made his acting debut in the romance series Ngao Rak Luang Jai, where he portrayed one of two wealthy cousins vying for love and fortune.
Nadech gained widespread recognition for his role in Duang Jai Akkanee (2010), starring alongside Urassaya Sperbund (Yaya). Their on-screen chemistry won them both Best Rising Actress/Actor awards, and they continued to collaborate on projects such as Game Rai Game Rak (2011).
In 2013, Nadech starred in his first feature film, Sunset at Chaophraya, a love story set during wartime. His performance earned him the Best Actor award.
In 2017, Nadech starred opposite Urassaya Sperbund in the romantic comedy Leh Lub Salab Rang and in 2018, he played a Royal Thai Navy officer in the series Likhit Ruk The Crown Princess. The 2018 film Nakee 2 was a box office hit, grossing 441.2 million baht, making it the highest-grossing Thai film of the year.
Nadech’s latest film, Death Whisperer 2, a supernatural horror released on 10 October 2024, has become the highest-grossing Thai film of the year. It surpassed the previous record-holder How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies, which grossed over 337 million baht. Death Whisperer 2 earned an impressive 104.97 million baht during its opening weekend in Bangkok and its surrounding areas, setting a new record for 2024.
Despite his fame, Nadech remains approachable, humble, and down-to-earth. He is frequently seen interacting with fans in public, using public transport, jogging in parks, cycling, and even doing his laundry on the BTS. This led to the popular hashtag ณเดชน์อยู่ทุกที่ (Nadech is everywhere).