Thai BL actors Gemini Norawit and Fourth Nattawat apologise after racism allegations over ‘Bollywood hero’ clip: ‘Important lesson for self-improvement’

Thai Boy's Love (BL) actors Gemini Norawit and Fourth Nattawat became the subject of significant criticism after several Indian fans and viewers shared dissatisfaction after a clip began circulating all over social media on October 6, 2026. In the clip, Fourth was seen performing exaggerated head and neck movements, which they associated with Bollywood.

The incident garnered significant backlash amid conversations over racist and cultural stereotypes. The popular BL duo have responded to the accusations with an apology. Simultaneously, the talk show where the two made an appearance have also taken accountability for their actions.

Here’s everything we know about the incident.

Following the significant backlash and accusations of mocking Indian culture, both Gemini and Fourth have apologised for the incident.

Gemini, 22, shared an apology statement on X, on October 9, 2026. He wrote, “I apologize for the incident that occurred and the negative feelings that arose from my actions.”

“I want to clarify that I had no intention of mocking the issue currently being discussed, nor did I intend to belittle, disparage, or demean any country, culture, or people in any way.” He stressed, “However, I understand that my actions may have been perceived as inappropriate, and I sincerely apologize to everyone affected by this incident.”

The actor further shared he would be mindful of his actions henceforth.

In his own apology statement, Fourth Nattawat, meanwhile, shared, “I have always confirmed and supported equality and diversity, and will do so forever.”

“I truly confirm that I had no intention whatsoever, and no thought at all, to mock any race in the slightest. I really confirm that it was just playing a game.” The 21-year-old went on to state, “Especially to Indian fans, it will be an important lesson for self-improvement going forward.”

Furthermore, the Thai talk show at the centre of the controversy, The Celebrities, also released an official statement taking responsibility for the segment.

“Our team never intended to mock or disrespect any race, culture, or group of people. However, we understand that, regardless of our intentions, the segment has caused discomfort and raised concerns among viewers, particularly our Indian viewers,” shared the variety show, “We recognize the importance of respecting cultural differences and sincerely apologize for the hurt and distress our content has caused. We take all the feedback and suggestions we have received seriously.”

The show extended their apologies to Indian viewers and anyone who was hurt by the segment, along with the guests Gemini Norawit and Fourth Nattawat as well as everyone involved.

The show also asserted, “As part of taking responsibility and out of respect for the feelings of our viewers and everyone affected, we will remove the segment in question from the show.”

Gemini and Fourth have collaborated on several dramas, including My School President, Moonlight Chicken, and Our Skyy 2. Most recently, the duo starred in Ticket to Heaven.

The viral incident in question occurred during a segment on the Thai talk show The Celebrities, hosted by comedian Katanyu Sawangsri. During a blindfolded guessing game, Gemini attempted to cue the phrase “Bollywood hero” to Fourth. He directed the latter into an awkward posture, with one cupped palm above his head and another near his chest. Fourth then proceeded to performed exaggerated hand-gestures and head-bobbing, while singing Dhoom Machale. Simultaneously, both Gemini and the host were seen laughing and clapping.

The clip went viral and several fans argued that the exaggerated movements mocked Indian culture and perpetuated racial stereotypes. Some believed that the action was disrespectful as it was done in a way that mocked Bollywood performances.

While some internet users defended the moment as a light-hearted exchange, others were less amused by Gemini and Fourth’s actions during the game segment, sparking criticism online.

Following the severe backlash and subsequent apologies, Desi audience still has a lot to say. Few believed that the apology was insufficient. Others appreciated Gemini and Fourth along with the show for taking accountability.

An Indian fan on X shared, “As an Indian, we never intended to hate we just wanted to express our concern related to what happened.”

Amidst discourse over racist stereotypes and cultural appropriation, Gemini and Fourth’s apology have also renewed conversation over Thai actor Pond Naravit who also faced backlash from Indian fans in August 2026.

During his concert in August 2026, Pond performed the famous song Helikopter by Bosnian singer Fazlija. The actor arrived on stage, clad in traditional Indian clothing including a sherwani and pagri (turban). The choreography also blended half-baked elements of Bharatnatyam and steps that seemed to mimic the iconic Malhari dance sequence from the Bollywood movie Bajirao Mastani.

The incidents have raised significant concerns over the way Indian culture has been made the punchline of the joke. The backlash directed at Gemini and Fourth was not an isolated incident. It emerged out of growing dissatisfaction towards the way South Asian culture and Bollywood tropes are used as comedic accessories in international entertainment.