Key info
Name: Putthipong Assaratanakul
Nickname: “Builkin”
Born: 8th October 1999
Height: 178 cm
Nationality: Thai
Known for: actor, singer
Instagram: @bbillkin
Early life and career
Putthipong Assaratanakul, whom fans know as “Billkin,” first captured the spotlight in the critically acclaimed Thai film “How To Make Millions Before Grandma Dies,” which garnered ardent admiration from international audiences. He was born on 8th October 1999 in Bangkok, Thailand, as the youngest of three brothers. Billkin polished his academic brilliance at Saint Gabriel’s College and later earned his degree in Marketing from the Faculty of Commerce and Accountancy at Thammasat University.
Billkin’s enthralling journey in the entertainment industry took off in 2016 when he debuted as one of the main hosts of the Thai reality TV show “Love Missions.” This initial exposure paved the way for his thriving career in showbiz. During an insightful chat with The Standard POP, Billkin candidly revealed his passion for the entertainment field, underscoring that it all began from his sheer love and enthusiasm for performing.
The turning point in his career arrived in 2019 with his portrayal of Doctor Tao, a compelling supporting character in the hit drama series “My Ambulance,” which starred luminaries like Davika Hoorne and Sunny Suwanmethanont. This skyrocketed him into stardom, earning him his first leading role in the groundbreaking series “I Told Sunset About You” alongside Krit Amnuaydechkorn, better known as PP Krit. The series poignantly captures the deeply evolving relationship between two teenage boys as they navigate their identities, sexuality, and love.
Notably, Billkin and PP Krit’s on-screen synergy translated seamlessly off-screen, as Billkin described PP Krit not just as a friend but as part of his family, a sentiment echoed by the warm interconnections between their families.
Breakout Role in “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies”
Billkin’s performance in the poignant film “How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies” earned him widespread acclaim. Directed and co-written by Pat Boonnitipat, the 2024 Thai drama features Billkin alongside the talented Usha Seamkhum. The narrative revolves around a university dropout’s journey as he takes on the heartwarming task of caring for his terminally ill grandmother, hoping to inherit her fortune.
The film struck a deep chord with Thai audiences due to its cultural relevance and quickly climbed the ladder of popularity across Southeast Asia, captivating viewers in Indonesia, Singapore, and Malaysia. It notably became 2024’s highest-grossing Thai film and ascended to become the 11th highest-grossing Thai film of all time.
Garnishing international praise, the film secured multiple awards, including the coveted Audience Prize at the New York Asian Film Festival. It is poised to enchant audiences worldwide with screenings scheduled in China, North America, and Europe later this year.
Read more about Billkin’s performance here
Music career
Beyond his acting prowess, Billkin showcases his multifaceted talent in the music sphere, mirroring the versatility typical of many Thai celebrities. He lent his melodic voice to the soundtrack of “My Ambulance” with the song “You Are My Everything,” setting the stage for his subsequent release “Hug in Mind.” His memorable hits also include “Told Sunset About You,” “I Promised You the Moon,” and “ยิ้มทั้งน้ำตา,” the latter of which has amassed an impressive 28 million views on YouTube.
Fans can look forward to a thrilling performance as Billkin and his charismatic co-star and friend PP Krit are set to dazzle the audience at Queen Sirikit on 31st August in their upcoming concert, “Double Trouble.”
Billkin is truly a rising star! His performance in ‘How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’ was so moving.
Absolutely! The film was a cultural masterpiece. I cried so much during it.
I disagree. I found the film to be overly sentimental and predictable.
To each their own, but I think the emotional depth was what made it special.
I hadn’t heard of him before this movie. Now I’m a huge fan!
His role in ‘I Told Sunset About You’ was more impactful in my opinion. It touched on so many important issues.
Can’t wait for his concert with PP Krit! They have such great chemistry.
Their voices complement each other so well. I’m sure it’s going to be amazing!
I think their success is overrated. There are better singers out there.
Everyone has different tastes, but the numbers speak for themselves. They’re beloved by many.
It’s impressive how he’s balancing both acting and a music career so well!
Saint Gabriel’s College and Thammasat University? Wow, he’s got brains and talent.
Indeed! It shows the importance of a solid educational foundation alongside pursuing passions.
Smart maybe, but talents from elite institutions have always had an easier path.
Does anybody know if he supports Liverpool? Would love to see more celebs supporting!
I met him once at an event in Bangkok. He’s genuinely a nice person!
While he is talented, it’s important to remember that the industry often creates stars out of mere trends.
That’s so unfair. He’s worked hard for his place in the industry!
No doubt he works hard, but the machinery behind him plays a big role too.
I love how his works bring more global recognition to Thai culture. We need more stars like him!
Never heard of him before, but now I’m intrigued. Any other recommendations for his work?
I think his true breakout role was in ‘My Ambulance’. ‘How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’ just built on that.
It’s amazing how his friendship with PP Krit translated on screen. They really make a great duo.
Totally agreed! They should do more projects together.
Their chemistry is undeniable, but I hope they also evolve independently.
Good point! It’s important they grow as individuals too.
I think the whole ‘Double Trouble’ concert is just a marketing gimmick. Not really excited for it.
Even if it’s a gimmick, it’s bringing joy to fans. Isn’t that the point?
As a medical student, I found his role in ‘My Ambulance’ quite inspiring. Gave me some extra motivation!
That’s awesome! Representation can mean a lot.
Usha Seamkhum was also brilliant in ‘How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies’. Their on-screen chemistry was beautiful.
Usha definitely deserves more credit. Hope she gets more leading roles!
Absolutely. I think she’s an underrated gem.
His music is just okay. Nothing groundbreaking.
I disagree. Songs like ‘Hug in Mind’ are deeply emotional and well-composed.