Nam-nguen Boonnak (1940 – 2026)
Written and published by the SouleMap editorial team. Published July 9, 2026. This tribute was not created by the family. Are you a family member? Claim this memorial.
In loving memory of Nam-nguen Boonnak. Born January 24, 1940. Passed away July 9, 2026.
Their Story
Born as Sawong Jaruwijit with the nickname Peak on January 24, 1940, in Bangkok, Nam-nguen Boonnak became one of Thailand's enduring screen actresses. Her grandfather held the title of Phraya and was a playwright who worked closely with King Rama VI, while her father worked in the Royal Irrigation Department and her mother was of Chinese descent. Boonnak entered the entertainment industry at age 17 after attending an Air Force Band concert and was invited by an elder in showbiz to star in her first movie in 1955 without needing an audition or formal acting training. She won best supporting actress Saraswati Awards in 1965 for "Nang Sao Phoradok" and again in 1966 for "Ka Wao". She became well recognized for her role as Yai Sai, a krasue in the 1994 TV series "Krasue," and provided the Thai voice for Grandmother Willow in Disney's "Pocahontas" in 1995. Throughout her later career, Boonnak became well-acquainted with supporting character roles in many TV series, typically playing servants or grandmothers. In early 2017, she received a lifetime achievement award at the 31st TVG Awards, recognizing her significant contributions to Thai entertainment spanning over six decades.
Sources
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