They intended to come together to send off Rae Macdonald on his final long journey as well. From the film team of “Escape with Galileo,” featuring two leading actresses, Toey Jarinporn Joonkiat and Tai Chutima Tipanat, along with Ton Nithiwat Tharathorn, the director,
the three shared memories of working with Rae. Ton said that just this past July 2026, they talked about wanting to reunite the “Escape with Galileo” film team but never expected it would be to send Rae off on such a long journey.
Could you recall your time working with Rae on “Escape with Galileo”?
Ton: “Actually, Rae was an actor I always wanted to work with. He symbolized being true to oneself, with freedom, courage, and a unique path. This matched the character 'Tum' in Galileo perfectly. When writing the script, I felt it had to be Rae. I wanted him to play the role from the start. Every line he spoke truly embodied the character.”
So he was born for this role, right?
Ton: “When writing, I couldn’t imagine anyone else delivering those lines so convincingly, truly thinking like that. He is authentic, doing what he thinks is right. To me, he and the character merged perfectly.”
Had you known or worked with him before?
Ton: “I was a fan of P’Rae. I grew up watching Rae Macdonald. People in my generation saw him as a host and actor. I knew him as someone free-spirited and daring, inspiring a desire to live fully. So when we had a character like this, I didn’t hesitate to choose him.”
How was it different before knowing him and after working together?
Ton: “He was very fun, approachable, and a highly professional actor. I’d wanted to work with him for a long time, but working with him gave me more than I expected. Many aspects of the character and his lines were almost exactly him. I hardly needed to make any changes. When he spoke, it was believable because it was him. He brought the character to life beyond what I imagined.”
Rae was your first male lead in a film, Toey?
Toey: “Yes, my first film leading man. Even before meeting P’Rae, he was an idol and someone I admired. Working together was very exciting. He was so kind. I felt he was a role model and inspiration for our generation in being true to oneself.”
He truly was authentic, standing firm in following his passions to this day. From watching him on TV and YouTube, he remained the same as back then.”
What acting lessons did you learn from Rae?
Toey: “At first, when playing, he asked if I felt the tingling sensation acting together, as if he truly felt the character. I didn’t understand then since it was my first film, but over time I realized he was very talented and genuine. He was an inspiration to me and, I believe, to our generation and younger viewers now.”
. . .
How was Rae with you during filming?
Toey: “He was very chill. As others have said today, being with him made you feel you didn’t have to be anyone else. After working with him, when anyone asked which male actor I liked, I said Rae Macdonald was my favorite. I loved his style and adventurous spirit. His life is something to follow.”
Tai, how was it working with Rae?
Tai: “He was a quality actor, performing from genuine inner feelings. We didn’t need much rehearsal; when filming, it went smoothly. He was truly talented.”
What moments showed his kindness?
Tai: “I grew up as a fan of P’Rae since Teen Talk days. He was an idol for a long time, and working with him was impressive.”
This film will forever remind everyone of Rae. Will there be projects to honor his memory?
Ton: “Not yet, but the film itself is a great memory for us as collaborators. It can communicate feelings to the audience.”
“I feel it’s a classic that captures Rae’s true personality. I hope it inspires many to travel, be themselves, and follow their dreams. That alone is very meaningful.”
When did you last see Rae?
Ton: “I remember seeing him with Toey when GDH was doing a project to honor their films. We filmed a clip together. Knowing Toey and I would go, I wanted to see Rae. That was the last time. We intended to meet together.”
Toey: “We even talked about wanting a reunion someday.”
Ton: “The Galileo reunion was still being discussed in July, as the film had just celebrated 17 years since 2009. We thought it was time to reunite. We never expected it would be today, but I feel it’s fitting to send Rae off with intention.”
Planning to reunite the “Escape with Galileo” team?
Ton: “Yes, we want to meet and have the chance to gather. Filming was special with only 13 people, all helping each other like family. It was unlike any other film set and a unique experience for us.”
Anything you want to say about this man?
Ton: “I wish him peaceful rest and safe travels. He was a great inspiration to all and will always be remembered.”
Tai: “I hope P’Rae finds peace in the next realm.”
Toey: “I want to say he truly lived fully, following his dreams. I wish him well on his next journey, seeking whatever he wishes. Though we won’t meet again, our hearts are always with him.”
I saw you prepared paper with messages today?
Ton: “The team wanted to send off P’Rae. Whenever we think of the film, this image comes to mind. I still remember filming on the Champs-Élysées, with Thai people there raising their hands in greeting.”
It was very special — standing as Thais in a foreign land, speaking Thai, with only fellow Thais understanding and connecting with this moment, truly waving and greeting us. It was unique.”
What messages were written today?
Toey: “Raise your hand if you love P’Rae. Wishing him safe travels.”
Then the team handed papers reading “Raise your hand if you love P’Rae” and “Safe travels, P’Rae” for Toey and Tai to hold for the media to capture.
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