2023 was a phenomenal year for BL productions. With the pandemic panic finally receding and restrictions being uplifted, the BL industry was very busy churning out massive hits. Artistic freedom is evolving and so are the BL actors. This year we saw some rookie actors joining the ranks and against our better judgement, they proved their worth. So, we weren’t surprised with this year’s results where the fans voted in full swing for the actors who deserved this title!

Thank you to one and all for taking the time to vote. Check out the results below.

10) Mashiko Atsuki, My Personal Weatherman

Playing the main lead in a complex yet mature romance like “My Personal Weatherman” isn’t an easy job. But Mashiko’s nuanced yet layered performance was not only praiseworthy but also detailed. He determinedly led the narrative that focuses on the main lead Tanada Yoh’s dormant obsession and conflicted affections for his roommate, Segasaki. We celebrated their pitfalls and rejoiced at their reconciliations.

9) Mix Sahaphap, Moonlight Chicken

Starring in an age gap romance, that tells the story of restaurant owner who has a one night stand with his customer, Mix’s execution of Wen’s confused state was commendable. Going through varied emotions as he experiences heartbreak while embarking on a new rebound; people could empathize with Wen’s situation, despite the proclivity of the situation he was embroiled in.

8) Nishijima Hidetoshi, What Did You Eat Yesterday? 2

“What Did You Eat Yesterday? 2” has always been projected as a gourmet romance with a middle-aged couple at the heart. But above all, it is main lead, Shiro’s journey as he comes to terms with his insecurities and learns how to accept his sexuality wholeheartedly. Of course, partner Kenji lends his hands often, but the storyline has always been centered around Shiro. And Nishijima Hidetoshi has been doing a fantastic job portraying the complexities faced by Shiro, for almost five years now.

7) Babe Tanatat, The Sign

Starring in a supernatural romance opposite an established star like Billy Patchanon isn’t an undermining job and yet Babe Tanatat has already made his mark. As Tharn, Babe has to project visions that are characteristic of this role. Add to that, his natural chemistry with Billy is off-the-charts which is an added advantage for the show. We are awestruck because Babe doesn’t act like a rookie AT ALL!

6) Bright Rapheephong, IFYLIA

It is a strenuous job when you have to eject emotions in a character that is decades old. Stepping into their world, adapting to their culture is equally onerous. And Bright was tasked with this arduous job. Portraying the overlord Yai from the Republican era, Bright won hearts with his heartfelt rendition of a nobleman who is caught in a web of lies and deceit as he fervently tries to hide his real feelings in an era where homosexuality was loathed. No one could have done it better than Bright!

5) Film Thanapat, Laws of Attraction

After his sophisticated act in “To Sir With Love”, we definitely weren’t expecting Film Thanapat to portray a money crazed lawyer in “Laws of Attraction”. Playing a morally ambiguous character who is hellbent on revenge, Film managed to surpass our expectations. His infectious energy infused with the character’s quirky nature was entertaining indeed. We really won’t mind watching Film play Charn again!

4) Jimmy Jitaraphol, Last Twilight

I read in one of the interviews that the makeup artists for this show had a hard time making Jimmy look ugly. And that’s obviously a fact, because it would definitely take a lot to tone down Jimmy’s handsomeness; which despite their ardent efforts, shines through the character he is currently portraying. As Mhok, Jimmy plays a rowdy character with temper issues; who is tasked to act as a caretaker for a bratty, rich ex-athlete, Day. Mhok by no means is an easy role and yet Jimmy infuses the character with so much infectious energy, that you can’t help but be enthralled!

3) Nonkul Chanon, IFYLIA

One of the biggest surprises in 2023 was Nonkul Chanon. Starring in a historical time travel romance, Nonkul had to embody the caricature of a modern man who gets stuck in a homophobic era. Jom’s emotional journey as he traverses through a foregone era while falling in love with a nobleman was riveting. Nonkul’s depiction was laudable and his natural chemistry with co-star Bright Rapheephong added a rustic touch to this somber love story.

2) Khaotung Thanawat, Only Friends

If you are as bewildered as we are, chances are you are either questioning the people’s choice or trying to process the shock. A drunk man going through life, because his money buys everything; Khaotung’s portrayal was definitely out-of-the-box. Khaotung isn’t new to playing complex characters, but Ray was a class apart. His negativity and abundant insecurities should be outputting, but Khaotung’s rendition was so heartbreaking, that you cannot hate Ray, even if you try hard.

1) First Kanaphan, Only Friends

With whopping vote bank of 482 votes (the highest ever recorded in the history of “The BL Xpress”), First Kanaphan won the title without much contention. And rightly so, because Sand is definitely one of his most admirable performances till date. Following the winning streak after his subtle performances in “The Eclipse” and “Moonlight Chicken”, First was daring enough to portray a character that was equal parts rebellious and sympathetic. The contrast was so intriguing, that it will forever be imprinted in our minds!

We hope our readers and avid BL fans had a fun time voting in this year’s polls. Until next year!