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[title]Todsapol Top Maisuk has lived many lives, some on screen, some in the everyday chaos of Bangkok. He’s been the teen soaking up Songkran on Khaosan road, the engineer-to-be contemplating his career path, and now, the actor stepping into roles that challenge both himself and the industry he’s part of. But in every version of himself, one thing stays the same: his grounded perspective to life and work.
“I started acting when I was in Year 11, doing commercial castings,” he says. “Along the way, I found that I was genuinely happy doing this.” It wasn’t an overnight revelation, but a steady realisation – one that kept pulling him back, even when other career paths seemed more stable.
Acting is unstable, but then again, life itself is uncertain. Realising that early on helped me make my choice.
How Bangkok influences his move
Bangkok is both a backdrop to Todsapol’s life and a city that shapes who he is. His early Songkran memories are straight out of a coming-of-age film – riding in the back of a truck, dunking himself into a ceramic water barrel to warm up from the cold splashes. Then came the wilder years at Khaosan, where the street turned into a blur of neon, soaked travellers and fleeting connections.
Todsapol’s go-to water fight attire perfectly reflects the traditional outfits worn by Thai people during the festival.
“Tank tops with those classic Hawaiian patterns, comfy shorts, and affordable slides or sneakers so when they get drenched, it’s no big deal. And of course, I won’t forget a waterproof bag to keep my stuff dry.”
But these days, his perspective on Songkran–and city life–has shifted.
“At this point, spending time with family and friends is what matters most. Water fights are just the fun bonus I get now and then, haha.”
The shift goes beyond age – it’s about changing priorities. Bangkok’s chaotic energy is something he appreciates, but he also knows when to step away.
“After working all year, Songkran might be the only time I get to properly rest. Personally, I’d rather just rest than wear myself out at the water fights. Quality over quick thrills any day.”
That sense of balance carries over to his thoughts on the city itself. While Bangkok is undeniably exciting, it’s also a place that demands awareness.
“It used to be a cherished festival tradition, but now it’s become something else. People, girls, guys or anyone, often get grabbed or assaulted, which is just wrong. I think it should go back to the good old days when we kept it fun, respectful, and didn’t use it as an excuse to grope anyone.”
The art of reinvention, on and off screen
On-screen, Todsapol is constantly stepping into new identities, but he approaches each one with meticulous care.
“I do extensive homework every time because I’m about to step into another character’s shoes – someone with different emotions and thoughts.” He isn’t interested in playing roles that feel shallow or predictable.
“Now, I gravitate toward roles that feel real–characters that have depth and resonate with the audience. I like playing roles that serve as a voice for certain groups in society.”
His career has evolved significantly, especially after 4 Kings 2, a turning point that placed him firmly on the map. But he’s quick to point out that success in acting goes beyond visibility.
“Acting isn’t a profession where you have full control over your career. It’s shaped by many external factors, like timing and opportunities. You have to keep developing yourself, like a tree growing in soil – it depends on the environment, what nurtures it, and how fast or slow it grows.”
He adds,
I don’t see success as having to reach ‘superstar’ status. Instead, it’s about planning in a way that gives me peace of mind.
The industry is unpredictable, and he knows that longevity comes from careful navigation rather than chasing momentary fame.
The bigger picture
While Todsapol has carved out his own space in the industry, he sees room for growth – not just for himself, but for Thai cinema as a whole.
"I hope our culture becomes more open to film and entertainment – where people don’t judge a movie by its poster but see the meaning behind it."
He’s also invested in improving industry standards, from workplace safety to ensuring actors have fair working conditions.
His upcoming projects, including another Netflix Original, are pushing him into new territory – roles that excite him, that feel meaningful. But beyond the scripts and the set lights, what keeps him going is simple, the love of the craft and the community it builds.
“Every project has been special because each one has shaped me into the person I am today.”
As for what’s next? He’ll keep doing what he does best – balancing the rush of the city with the discipline of his work, telling stories that matter, and staying true to the kind of actor he wants to be.
Photographer: STYLEdeJATE @styledejate
Art director: Chonipa Rose Derkin @roscherr
Senior designer: Methita Trakulpoonsub @methitaa
Producer: PK Vanasirikul @peeekks
Project manager: Sirinart Panyasricharoen @tibabit
Writer: Sarunrat Ardpruksa @toeysarunrat
Video: Karina Samoilenko @nesmailova
Photos: FotoclubBKK @fotoclubbkk
Stylist: Mathimon Intharasuwan @chubbyz_gt
Hair stylist: Pornwasu Huamrun @papalapom
Makeup artist: Chatchanok Natengampak @ngampak.makeup
Project assistants: Napatsorn Ngaosawangjit and Kaweewat Siwanartwong
Concept: @laurieosborne