Thai actor Teeradetch Metawarayut, also known as Aleek, has undergone a important physical transformation, losing 13 kilograms for his role in the upcoming series “Kham Sap Phii”[[Confession of a Ghost Doctor]. the dedication to his craft-and the potential health impacts-demonstrates the lengths actors will go to for a convincing portrayal, a commitment Metawarayut says is driven by the demands of increasingly role-specific casting in the Thai television industry. The actor’s weight loss journey also comes amid ongoing recovery efforts following recent flooding in southern Thailand, where his recent health impacted his ability to donate blood.
Thai Actor Aleek Theeradej Loses 13 Kilograms for New Role, Prioritizes Health Amidst Demanding Schedule
Thai actor Aleek Theeradej Methavarayuth has undergone a dramatic physical transformation, shedding 13 kilograms (approximately 28 pounds) for an upcoming role. The actor is aiming to lose even more weight to fully embody the character, despite concerns from friends and family about his increasingly slender physique.
The dedication to his craft comes after recent roles required physical changes. “Since ‘Sairak Saileuad’[[Blood Ties], people keep wanting me to change my look,” Theeradej explained. “This series, and the one before it, required a character who wasn’t as muscular as Aleek Theeradej. It’s a challenge I’ve embraced.” He’s now completely stopped weight training, focusing solely on reducing his size to portray a character who is physically vulnerable in the upcoming series, “Kham Sap Phii”[[Confession of a Ghost Doctor].
“My character in ‘Kham Sap Phii’ is someone who is acted upon, so I’m taking this weight loss very seriously. It’s a complete transformation. There’s no muscle left, my arms are getting smaller – all to best fit the role. If I were to still have large muscles, I think the audience would feel like the character is too strong. I don’t want them to feel that way, so I’m trying to do my best.”
Theeradej admits that losing weight is more difficult than gaining it. “Gaining muscle is quick. Give me a little time, and I can bulk up. But losing weight… that’s a real challenge.” He emphasized the importance of physical appearance in creating a believable character, adding, “First impressions are important. What people see on the outside helps them believe in the character, along with the inner work.”
Balancing the demanding physical regimen with his other commitments has been exhausting. “I don’t think I’ve ever been this tired in my life,” he said. “Before, I’d just wake up and go to work. Now, I have to manage my diet, force myself to wake up early to exercise, and sometimes I don’t get enough sleep. It’s not good for my health, but I’m giving it everything I’ve got.” Since beginning this transformation following “Sairak Saileuad,” he’s lost approximately 12-13 kilograms.
Theeradej acknowledges that people have commented on his weight loss, with some expressing concern that he’s become too thin and his face appears gaunt. “People tell me I’ve lost too much weight already, that I don’t need to lose any more. Even my friends are worried. But I know my limits. If I go too far, I’ll just pass out,” he joked. “I know where my limit is, but I’m going to do my best right now.”
A recent visit to donate blood for flood relief in southern Thailand highlighted the impact of his weight loss. “I’m still planning to lose more weight because when I look in the mirror, I feel like I haven’t been beaten up enough yet,” he said with a laugh. “But it was funny – I went to donate blood yesterday, and they sent a message to previous donors about the need for blood in the south. Normally, I can donate a large bag, 450 milliliters. But the doctor asked if I’d lost a lot of weight and if I was feeling okay. I told her I lost it myself, and she said I should just donate a small bag today.”
The doctor, familiar with his previous health records, cautioned him about losing weight too quickly. “She said my weight loss was very rapid and suggested I just donate a small bag this time.”
Theeradej stressed that there are many ways to help those affected by the flooding. “Thai people are very kind and always willing to help. We can help in many ways. I don’t know exactly what they need down there, so I just want to share the news and hope there are clear channels for assistance. I think helping has many methods, and I’m comfortable with this one.”
He also extended his support to Ken Phupoom Pongpanupak, whose Ken Phu Pang shop was severely damaged in the floods. “I saw what happened to Ken yesterday and sent him my encouragement. He’s figuring out how to deal with the situation, and of course, he’s stressed. We don’t know what we’d do in that situation, so I hope in the future there will be better preparation and warnings to help people be more ready. We all work hard, and you never know when a natural disaster will strike. It’s unavoidable, but with today’s technology and social media, we should be able to prepare more easily. I’m sending my best to everyone.”
