Cover Story: Apo Nattawin on Shine and a Decade in Show Business
With the soon-to-be-released series, Shine, Thai actor and Piaget’s Global Ambassador, Apo Nattawin is ready to radiate even brighter with joy
Ten years. That is how long Thai actor, Apo Nattawin has been in the business. Though it was only in 2022, with KinnPorsche, that he catapulted to superstardom. The series starred Apo as Porsche, and fellow actor, Mile Phakphum as Kinn. With the massive success of the show, Apo landed firmly on the radar for luxury brand collaborations. And the pair of actors proved they were no one-hit wonders — they teamed up again for Thai historical mystery-drama film, Man Suang, which went on to become one of the highest grossing Thai films of 2023. A walking testament to the value of humility and hard work, Apo was named Piaget’s Friend of the Maison for Southeast Asia before the end of 2023. By April 2024, he was elevated to Global Ambassador. It won’t take long before Apo sweeps more headlines — he is set to dazzle, together with Mile, in the upcoming romantic- comedy period series, Shine.
Hi Apo! You were recently in Abu Dhabi with Piaget. How was the experience?
I was really impressed. It was beyond what I imagined. Every moment of the trip was so valuable and is etched in my memory. For instance, it was the first time I rode a camel in the desert! It felt like I was floating in the galaxy. Of course, with such a warm, family-like welcome from Piaget.
In 2023, you were appointed the first Friend of Piaget in Southeast Asia, and in April last year, you were named the Maison’s Global Ambassador. Describe your relationship with the house.
Working with Piaget is like a shared journey that has allowed me to get to know both the brand's identity and my own identity better. Especially after experiencing the works in the Patrimony collection, which the brand values and cherishes to this day — much like how I value every moment in my life. Being with Piaget confirms for me that giving importance to everything you do and staying true to yourself is the right path.
One of your upcoming projects is the series, Shine, which also stars Mile. How was it working together again? Is there anything else you can share about Shine?
This is a story that takes place between Paris, France and Thailand. Mile and I have shared many memories together in Paris and Thailand as well. What will it be like when we meet again in 1969? How beautiful will this chapter be? What will the fashion be like? Stay tuned!
What else can fans look forward to from Apo in 2025?
It’ll be another year of growing up, perhaps with a moustache! Jokes aside, with Shine, I hope fans will get to see me more often.
It has been 10 years since you made your debut as an actor. A decade in the business is no small feat. What are some moments that you are proudest of?
Seeing people happy, especially my fans. Just from an interview where I simply share my perspective and opinion on things, they would come up and tell me how I've changed their lives. Just by looking at things with intention and sincerity, it would make their day. It's amazing and something to be proud of — it makes me feel valuable.
A new fashion season has begun. What are some objects that you’re currently obsessed with?
Watches and jewellery — I've always loved and had an interest in them. Wherever I go, I wear a watch as I’m used to checking the time on my wrist. It feels good to see the stones on the dial; they’re just so beautiful. As for jewellery, I always keep them on me as well, whether it's a necklace, bracelet, or ring. I feel like it shows that I pay attention to the details of my outfit — especially the Piaget Possession Ring because it spins. When you look closer, there are so many details.
You’ve been travelling quite extensively these days. What are some of your secrets to feeling and looking good after long flights and in different time zones?
I meditate by feeling myself from head to toe, acknowledging that I'm here, right now.
“Seeing people happy, especially my fans... It's amazing and something to be proud of — it makes me feel valuable.”
Is there anything you hope to have more or less of in 2025?
I hope to be more mindful, to know myself better, and to understand myself more because I want to be a better version of my true self. I also hope to be less lazy!
Happy birthday in advance. How do you hope to be spending it?
Thank you. For my birthday this year, I plan to spend some peaceful time with myself and my family.
Complete this sentence: As February arrives, it’s time to...
Be very happy, both in giving and receiving.
Words IAN LEE
Images BEN HASSETT
