My Love Mix-Up literally changed the course of my life. It introduced me to the colourful comedic stylings of Shunsuke Michieda and the stoically sexy everything of Ren Meguro. They in turn introduced me to STARTO ENTERTAINMENT, which introduced me to Ae! group, Kento Nakajima, Bishonen and of course, Travis Japan. As such, it’s become one of my favorite series, and the original manga – written by Hinekure Wataru (ひねくれ渡) and illustrated by Aruko (アルコ) – is also pretty damn good.

At the same time, a Thai series called My School President, featuring Gemini Norawit and Fourth Nattawat, provided me with my first interview with the powerhouse GMMTV. It was a series filled with clever writing, wonderful actors, and some of the best Thai-pop songs I’ve ever heard. 

So, naturally, when GMMTV announced during their 2024 Up & Above showcase that they would be making a Thai adaptation of MY Love Mix-Up staring Gemini and Fourth , I couldn’t have been more excited. Or at least, that is how I should have felt. However – truth be told – I was also worried.

The original Japanese series has such a special place in my heart that I didn’t think I could give the new series a fair chance, even though I absolutely adore the actors – and the company. I should have known better, though. There is a reason GMMTV has the keys to the kingdom of the wholesome BL drama. They know what they’re doing, and they know they do it well.

Fourth is Atom (the Thai Aoki, played by Michieda). He’s a bit more rough around the edges than Aoki is, but that devil-may-care attitude is a well-loved trait of the actor. Gemini is Kongthap (the Thai Ada, played by Mega); honestly, he was a perfect choice for the role. Like Meguro, he’s got that strong silent thing on lock – and GMMTV doesn’t skimp on playing up those similarities. 

While there are some noticeable differences, Kongthap plays basketball (not volleyball) and adopts a cat (not a dog, sorry, Mametarro). There are some great similarities, too, like Atom wanting to punch Kongthap or his female crush giving him a homemade cupcake on Valentine’s Day. Also, since the Thai episodes are about double that of the Japanese series in length (40 minutes vs 20), there is much more time for character development. 

Then there is the music. While nothing will EVER top the candy colored sweetness of Naniwa Danshi’s UBU love or the sultry sex appeal of Snow Man’s Secret Touch GMMTV does know a thing or two about producing good music, especially when it comes to their BL Series and Gemini and Fourth are two of the company’s most gifted singers!

There is a brightness to Fourth, while Gemini’s voice is like hot chocolate – smooth and delectable. Also, the music video is just bonkers. 

While the Thai adaptation has HUGE shoes to fill, it does start off on the right foot. It’s keeps the same heart of the original which gives life to a whole new body. It’s different, which isn’t bad. I am excited to see where it goes.

My Love Mix-Up will stream new episodes Friday on the official GMMTV YouTube channel. There will be more soon so…

Stay Tuned!