2024 was surprisingly a good year, for talents old and new. While some veteran actors made exciting comeback, rookie actors also managed to evoke intrigue. While most shows hinge on the chemistry between the lead pairing, there were few that actually managed to capitalize on their actor’s talents. Today, we will talking about such exemplary who have made their mark in the hearts of ardent fans & continue doing so!

Tanaka Kei, Ossan’s Love Returns

Quirky, funny and probably one of the most charismatic Japanese actor in the current generation, Tanaka Kei won hearts with his portrayal of Haruto Soichi in the 2018 sleeper hit “Ossan’s Love”. Since then, the show has inspired endless sequels and parallel universe movies where Tanaka continues playing the main lead. Despite the various variants in the franchise, his camaraderie with co-stars Hayashi Kento & Yoshida Kotaro turned “Ossan’s Love” into a veritable enterprise, leading to a Thai remake. There are very few who can actually compete with Tanaka’s comedic flair, his timing or humor sense. “Ossan’s Love” owes its popularity to this phenomenal actor who has single handedly turned this franchise into a money making venture!

Kurt Huang, Unknown

Nothing can compare to the haunted rendition of Wei Zhi Yuan by Kurt Huang, indecipherable and relentless. As an orphan on the streets, Wei Zhi Yuan was rescued by Wei Qian who was barely a teenager himself. Left to fend for themselves, Wei Qian takes over the responsibility of raising his birth sister, Wei Li Li and new brother, Wei Zhi Yuan whom he adopts into their family. As they grow up, Wei Qian works relentlessly to put them through school. These gestures end up making Zhi Yuan fall in love with Wei Qian, who is unable to accept his feelings. As Wei Qian struggle with his affections, Wei Zhi Yuan pursues him tirelessly. Kurtz’s rendition was so painfully believable and realistic. The yearning and longing were heartbreaking and we rejoiced when they reconciled. No one else but Kurt could have played this lovesick puppy!

Jet Somjet, 7 Days Before Valentine

A soft hearted Grim Reaper who grants your wishes while making sure you don’t regret your choices- Jet Somjet lead the narrative with his tender gaze and heartbreaking demeanor. As a Grim Reaper, he doesn’t remember his past life and is send on a mission to help a bewildered human, Sunshine hellbent on destruction. As he acts as a life coach to Sunshine while he makes regrettable choices, Kyu tries to avert disaster as much as possible. Jet’s depiction was soulful, especially his eyes betray the pain and disappointment that Kyu feels everytime Sunshine makes unfortunate decisions. He attempts to rectify Sunshine’s mistakes and in due course of time, they grow closer. I was blown away by Jet’s thoughtful portrayal!

Tay Tawan, Cherry Magic Thai

I was quite skeptical about watching the Thai remake of my favorite Japanese adaptation. Keita Machida’s interpretation of his character was so memorable that I wasn’t sure if Tay Tawan would fit into the same vision. Surprisingly, he did and added his own charm to the rendition. Tawan’s soft glances, sweet gestures and warmhearted approach were so similar to the character from the anime and the Japanese version, nothing felt amiss. The remake felt like a kind reminder of a memorable romance that had made its way into the hearts of millions of fans. I don’t think any other actor could have embodied Kurosawa’s caring nature as Tawan did. An exemplary actor indeed!

Lee Jae Bin, Gray Shelter

From playing a chocolate boy in “Choco Milk Shake” to portraying a dark, broody character in “Gray Shelter”, Lee Jae Bin was able to display his acting talents in this somber romance. As Lee Yoon Dae, Lee Jae Bin plays a troubled character, he doesn’t have any life goals, is estranged from his father and suffering from a recent heartbreak. Circumstances reunite him with his stepbrother, Cha Soo Hyuk with whom he shares an unresolved past. Lee Jae Bin’s portrayal was risque, he embodies the pain and suffering that his character has endured alongside the longing he feels for Cha Soo Hyuk. I was floored by his rendition and I’m hoping he plays more complex characters in future!

Great Sapol, Wandee Goodday

Great’s first major role not only bought fame and appreciation, but established his acting chops. As a Muay Thai fighter, Yoryak has to carry on the legacy of his family. At the same time, he endeavors to complete his graduation while being in a painful one-sided love with his tutor. As fate would have it, he ends up having a one night stand with a very handsome yet cautious doctor, Wandee. They quickly advance to “Friends with Benefits” level and eventually get into a fake relationship. Feelings ensue as Yoryak falls first and hard. Yoryak is the first to decipher these unknown feelings and accept them wholeheartedly, even when Wandee keeps him at an arm’s length. Great’s rendition was so heartwarming, I fell in love with his portrayal.

Up Poompat, My Stand-In

After making his name with a somber performance in “Lovely Writer”, Up Poompat is currently making splash with his risque performance as Ming in “My Stand-In”. Despite starring as the male protagonist, Up portrayed a character that inspired hatred and antagonism. Week after week, fans openly cursed his character and prayed that he would never reconcile with his love interest, Joe. The abundant arrogance coupled with his distrustful attitude created a cult following and drove the ratings for this show. Never before, a main protagonist had succeeded in creating an infamy equivalent to that of a mainstream villain. We rejoiced when Ming fell from his high chair, enjoyed watching him grovel and felt satisfied when he was completely obliterated. Up embodied the finer nuances of his infamous character!

Special Mention-

☆ Nicholas Galitzine, Mary & George

There are very few actors in mainstream western media who have the guts to portray queer characters repeatedly. Nicholas Galitzine is one of those few daring actors. After making a splash in the 2023 hit “Red, White & Royal Blue”, he starred as the seductive George Villiers, 1st Duke of Buckingham in “Mary & George”. Paired opposite veteran actor, Tony Curran, their chemistry set the stage on fire. As George, Nicholas was brash, sensual and manipulative; quite opposite to his underrated portrayal of a regal prince in “Red, White & Royal Blue”. He is one of those actors who has no qualms adapting to the sexuality of the characters he portrays- realistic and daring!

We will be back with the second edition of this feature next week, keep tracking!