Seven years into the entertainment industry, Gulf Kanawut is no longer in a rush to prove himself. Tell any hot-blooded twentysomething to pace themselves, and you would only be met with resistance. Before achieving a steady momentum, acceleration must first occur. Just before turning 30 next year, Kanawut has done it all: starred in a career-changing BL series, released music, and become the face of myriad brands — from bottled green tea to luxury skincare and most notably, Gucci. Compared to a fresh-faced juvenile, there is a steady stream of assuredness that emanates just from the way he communicates his answers. “I want to be an actor that viewers fully believe in, no matter the role. If they can truly connect with the characters I play, that is success to me,” Kanawut explains. With a better understanding of his work, he has grown to be more patient and self-aware when it comes to refining his craft. “Before, I only focused on doing my best. Now, I consider the bigger picture more.”
Shirt, jeans, Lunetta bag, Gucci Jackie 1961
bag, shoes, all Gucci
Three years after his last Men’s Folio cover story, Gulf Kanawut, who previously saw going solo as a pursuit of authenticity, now finds himself enjoying the fruits of following his intuition. You see it from the deliberate choices he makes when it comes to picking his roles, going beyond what is considered safe and conventional. Referencing his upcoming projects, he teases about the dichotomies of these characters. “For Tawan Luang (Beneath the Lies), the role is quite dramatic and emotionally complex, which required me to work with a lot of internal feelings, while my character in The Miracle of Wanthong was brighter, and more fun — I’m excited to show another side of me that others haven’t seen before.” Back as cover star for our April 2026 issue, we speak to the multi-hyphenate to dive further into his newfound rhythm and headspace.
Jacket, jeans, Lunetta bag, all Gucci
BEYOND THE ROLES YOU’VE ALREADY TAKEN ON, WHAT ELSE WOULD YOU LIKE TO TRY?
I’d like to do more music. To me, it’s about creating work that allows me to tell stories in my own way and express different facets of myself.
BEYOND THE ENTERTAINMENT INDUSTRY, DO YOU HAVE ANY OTHER GOALS OR DREAMS?
I’d like to try running a small business related to lifestyle — something I enjoy and can be creative with.
Polo t-shirt, jeans, Lunetta
bag, shoes, all Gucci
Sweater, pants, Gucci Jackie 1961 bag all Gucci
LAST YEAR, YOU MENTIONED WANTING TO HAVE KIDS BEFORE TURNING 35. DO YOU STILL FEEL THE SAME WAY?
I still have that thought, but I’m not rushing. Right now, I’m focused on work. When the time is right, everything will fall into place.
YOU ARE ALREADY A DAD TO YOUR CATS — KANTE AND HAZARD. HOW ARE THEY LIKE?
Kante is playful — he loves running around. Hazard is calmer and prefers to stay quietly nearby. They’re very different, but they balance each other well.
T-shirt, pants, all Gucci
Sweater, pants, Gucci Jackie 1961 bag all Gucci
YOU MENTIONED FOCUSING MORE ON HEALTH AND FITNESS THIS YEAR. HOW IS THAT COMING ALONG?
I’m taking better care of myself by exercising and being mindful of what I eat. While I’m not too strict, I try to stay consistent and make these habits part of my daily routine.
WE NOTICED YOUR NEW STYLE THIS YEAR, AS SEEN AT THE GUCCI SHOW. TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR NEW LOOK.
Nowadays, I’m having more fun with fashion and taking more risks by introducing more colours and details. For the Gucci show, I wanted to try something new, so we chose a more fashion-forward look. With the help of my team, I still managed to feel like myself.
Shirt, jeans, Lunetta bag, Gucci Jackie 1961
bag, shoes, all Gucci
WHAT GUCCI ITEMS ARE WARDROBE ESSENTIALS FOR YOU?
Probably T-shirts and bags — they’re easy to style and help complete a look.
WHICH GUCCI LOOK FROM TODAY’S MEN’S FOLIO SHOOT IS YOUR FAVOURITE?
The leather biker jacket look. It’s effortless, cool, yet extremely stylish. I also like that it’s versatile enough for many occasions.
T-shirt, pants, bag all Gucci
Polo shirt, pants, Lunetta bag, shoes, all Gucci
OF ALL THE GUCCI SHOWS YOU’VE ATTENDED, WHICH ONE IMPRESSED YOU THE MOST?
Each show has its own charm, but I especially like the ones with a strong concept — where each look tells you a story and pulls you into Gucci’s universe.
WHAT ARE YOU LIKE OFF-CAMERA?
I’m pretty simple. I like staying home, playing with my cats, gaming, or just relaxing. It’s a more laid-back side that people don’t often see.
Jacket, jeans, shoes, all Gucci
Shirt, pants, Lunetta bag, shoes, all Gucci
IF YOU COULD TALK TO YOURSELF SEVEN YEARS FROM NOW, WHAT WOULD YOU ASK?
I’d ask, “Are you happy with what you’re doing right now?” Because in the end, no matter where we are, being happy with what we do is what matters most.
Creative Direction Izwan Abdullah
Photography Adisorn Rutsameeronchai
Styling Atinan Nitisunthonkul
Grooming Chanaphan Kerdmongkol
Hair Tiyanon Kamtawa
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