After Nara CrepGay produced “The Take Hormone 2,” a show resembling "The Face Thailand," which has Tae Piyarat Kancharak the heir of Kantana Production and the show's producer, sparking controversy, recently reporters met Tae Piyarat at the press launch of The Face Men Thailand Season 4 at KANTANA VIRTUAL PRODUCTION STUDIO and asked him about this issue.
How dramatic and spicy will The Face Men 4 be?
"It's already a hit show. Just by revealing the mentors, I think the drama will be intense because now it's divided into teams. This year, a master mentor also joins to add flavor. The concept is basically 'fight' (laughs). It's like watching a sport where everyone cheers for their side."
Many regard it as the prototype of reality shows?
"Thank you for seeing us as a prototype. Honestly, it makes us reflect on what we've done, what kind of content we've presented, what's good and bad. Today, we're returning to produce it again and consider what we can give society and to those working with us. We've received a lot—from inspiration from mentors and contestants, it's an opportunity and a dream for those wanting to enter entertainment. How can we help them be professional, have good work ethics, and use good judgment in life?"
What impact did Nara CrepGay's similar show have on you?
"Actually, we are a model for many shows, not just one. It's a mirror reflecting ourselves to reconsider what we've done and presented from past to present, and what we want to present in the future. What legacy do we leave for society and the profession we love? This industry deserves respect. Those dreaming of joining entertainment don't take it lightly; they've sacrificed a lot. Even the mentors have sacrificed much to be on the show because it's not easy."
"We must think deeply if we've done anything wrong or set a bad example. To be honest, I probably once said, ‘It's okay,’ that anyone can express or produce as they wish."
"Because at that time, they didn't ask or seek permission from us beforehand. They did it first and then asked. Our role is as viewers, so we responded kindly and generously by saying it's okay. But if they had consulted or asked permission first, I would have said honestly that I wouldn't support it."
"Saying 'it's okay, go ahead' was because they had already done it. I understand that in today's Thai society, kindness and compassion are important for safety and unity."
"But it felt like we were supporting this, which made me sad. I think it was me who said 'it's okay,' but actually, if asked before doing it, I wouldn't support such an impolite production approach."
Is there a second project?
"As I said, my word stands. They never informed or asked permission before doing it. Now, we choose kindness. If they feel good and successful in their work, doing what they want in life, and creating jobs for others, I can only say congratulations. But I feel a little regretful for previously saying 'it's okay.' If they had asked first, I wouldn't have supported it."
Would you like a serious discussion?
"I want to focus on my work because what I do already has many critics. So I try to self-censor and constantly reflect if the content will be acceptable."
"At the same time, overthinking would make the show less fun. Some things must be done, edited, then screened again. In summary, I focus on my work and what I want to offer society because I want to raise the standards of the Thai entertainment industry."
Regarding what the other side plans to do, did you feel you had given permission?
"I never authorized it, just said 'it's okay' because it was already done."
In their next season, would you consider legal action to stop them?
"I haven't thought about it. Previously, after finishing season 6, I took a break and didn't follow up or think far ahead. If they don't come to me, I don't consider it harassment—I don't know if that term applies."
Do you think they went too far?
"They have gone overboard in many ways. I won't judge anyone's work because I don't know what shaped each person to present their work that way. I won't judge because I'm not perfect and have many faults myself."
"But what I do and produce is done properly with the copyright we purchased, and we've been doing this for 16 years. There's no need to say it helps us gain popularity or improve us. I just focus on my work. I haven't thought about harming or sabotaging others. Maybe they really mean well. They have built careers for themselves and others. Everyone has their own approach. I don't want to judge what made them who they are."
Do you want more appropriateness?
"It's up to their judgment. Speaking of shows similar to ours, many have added creative original ideas and different thought processes. People can watch whatever they prefer. As for The Face, we have our standards and do our best. Ultimately, I love the profession my family has built over 75 years at Kantana. I want to make this profession honorable, dignified, and offer audiences more than just entertainment."
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