We MacDonaldor Rae MacDonald for many decades. For Pinyo Ruttham who once worked with Rae on the program “Teen Talk” as the show's producer, during the early days of Rae’s entertainment career. Recently, Pinyo attended Rae’s funeral at Wat Yang, a royal monastery. Reporters asked him about his memories of working with Rae.
What memories do you have of Rae?
“I met Rae in 1994. At that time, the actual producer was Khun Aoy, who approached Rae to host the show. We had time on Channel 5 and planned to create a program for teenagers. We invited Rae to talk about ideals and goals. Rae honored the team by agreeing to work together and became the main host of Teen Talk. That’s how we met, back in 1994.”
What did you see in Rae that made you feel Rae had to be the host?
“Actually, Rae had an aura and charisma already, along with talent. If I remember correctly, Rae was a VJ on another TV station. We wanted Rae to pioneer a youth program at that time because we saw the potential. And as for looks, Rae was the most handsome athlete I had ever seen. We approached and talked it over, and Rae agreed to give it a try. Since then, Rae has led the entire Teen Talk team.”
Rae once said, ‘I am Teen Talk.’ Why was Rae Teen Talk?
“Rae was Teen Talk because Rae believed Thai youth could be leaders. Rae was one of those with independent thinking, not following others. From then until now, Rae has remained true to himself. Rae believed Thai youth should have their own thoughts, go in the right direction, and think innovatively—even thinking outside the box.”
How influential was Rae among 90s youth?
“Back then, we didn’t get much feedback. Communication between the show and viewers was by postcard or phone calls, without comments or likes and shares like today. What we knew was when going out, people greeted us, and later we learned that Teen Talk was popular among teenagers. Many of those viewers have grown up to this era.”
How proud are you of the term Teen Talk?
“We’re very proud to have made a notable chapter in Thailand’s history. At least Thailand knows the term Teen Talk. We believe we inspired Thai youth to do beneficial things and set an example for future generations.”
Teen Talk is much talked about. Do you have any projects in mind to do something for Rae under the Teen Talk name?
“I have thought about it. But now, every teenager has a mobile phone and internet, so they can be their own media and build their own presence without needing a big company. So, if I think about creating something on today’s platforms, I’ve considered doing something good with the team, especially with Rae. But it’s a pity Rae has gone ahead of us.”
From an adult’s perspective who has known Rae since Teen Talk, why is Rae still regarded as an icon?
“Because of Rae’s uniqueness. I don’t mean Rae was the only one like this in the industry—there are others with similar traits—but everyone is different. Our team likes to support people with unique identities, not just following the crowd.”
When was the last time you met Rae?
“The last time was at a meeting; we didn’t meet often, maybe every few years. The last time was at Rae’s place in Yaowarat. We talked and saw some of Rae’s work. When I heard the news yesterday, I was stunned all day. We once talked about growing old together, like being an uncle or grandfather to each other. Yesterday, I kept thinking about the cycle of birth, existence, and passing. But when it happens to someone close, it takes time to come to terms with it.”
What memories of Rae always make you smile?
“Most people said Rae spoke nonsense, but actually it was like we were on different wavelengths. Sometimes we talked about one thing while Rae was thinking about something else. I loved Rae for being like that. I enjoyed his mood and didn’t take things too seriously.”},{
Did you say anything when you visited Rae?
“Honestly, I told Rae to wake up and come do fun things together again.”
From knowing Rae until today, what developments have you seen in Rae?
“Rae grew a lot, but to me, Rae is still the same Rae MacDonald from 1994 when he was 17. Today, he still seems 17 but with more experience and many achievements. For those who don’t know Rae MacDonald, I encourage you to check out his works.”
Is there a chance to do something special to commemorate Rae?
“There are two things: one is to remember Rae, which I believe everyone wants to do, and our team wants to do as well. As for Teen Talk, targeting youth, we are thinking about it but have no concrete plans yet.”},{
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