Not just content! After indie Isan singer Mon Worawit turned professional by dressing as a woman under the name BeeMonce, judges across the nation were shocked and wondered if it was real or just a performance. Recently, his real older brother, Mek Apisit, known for multiple hit songs with millions of views, appeared in full media coverage to share their family story on the "To Nu Mam" program on Workpoint Channel 23 with host P'Nu Mam Surivipa. Mek expressed happiness seeing his brother fully unlock and openly be himself at the grand opening.
When did you realize your brother was LGBTQ+?
Mek: Probably since we were practicing boxing together back in kindergarten.
Was he showing signs from that early on?
Mek: I didn't know in Kindergarten 1; I found out about a year later, in Kindergarten 2.
How did you recognize that he was?
Mek: He didn’t like playing rough like other boys and was more attached to mom. Back then, mom ran a beauty salon, and he would take makeup, clothes, and bras to wear.
Mon: I liked playing with mom’s underwear.
How did you feel seeing him like that?
Mek: I asked if I should forbid it, and yes, I did forbid it. Dad was even stricter—he would chase and kick him (laughs).
When dad forbade it, how did you handle it with your brother?
Mek: In my heart, I was okay with it, but honestly, I didn’t want him dressing like that. Still, it was unstoppable (laughs).
Did you know in advance when he first publicly came out and dressed as a woman in a concert?
Mek: Not at all.
Mon: That was mild, by the way.
Mek: I’ve known for a long time, but I didn’t expect it to go this far. I was a bit shocked, but truly proud to see him unlock many things inside. Usually, I saw him smile but clench his teeth, but after unlocking himself, when he smiles or laughs, you can see his uvula. He’s genuinely happy.
As his older brother, are you worried about how this might affect your or his career?
Mek: At first, I was worried if people would accept it. I didn’t know how it would turn out. His coming out was the biggest decision of his life, but it’s good for him—it brings peace of mind and freedom to do whatever he wants.
Seeing how many people love your brother, do you have any concerns or worries?
Mek: I worry he’s going to be more famous than me and take all my work (laughs).
Why did you think it was time for him to come out?
Mon: Because that day I really wanted to. I gathered my courage. All my life, I haven’t been truly myself. Behind the scenes, no one knew what I really was. I just followed the roles I was given. But when the day came that I wanted to be myself fully and do what I truly want, I decided to do it. I told myself, "I will do it," listened more to my own voice, and went for it.
