Thailand's Renowned Transgender Actress Reunites at Miss International Queen After 22 Years

Thai renowned transgender actress Nong Poy made a striking appearance on the Miss International Queen stage, reflecting on her 22-year journey since winning the crown and captivating the audience with her enduring beauty and presence. On the evening of September 19, Nong Poy participated in the 20th-anniversary celebration of the pageant, sharing the stage with many former Miss International Queens. She was the first winner of the competition in 2004, and the crown proved to be a significant turning point in her life. Poy shared that while she initially participated just to win a title, over the years she came to understand the value of the crown as an opportunity that transformed her life. She stated that when women appear at the right time, they can open doors that never existed and influence an entire generation. She also expressed gratitude to the organizers for creating a platform that provided opportunities for transgender women when many places worldwide were not yet daring to do so. Concluding her remarks, Poy advised this year's winner on the lasting value of using her title wisely, even after her reign ends. "Using your title to create something meaningful for a long time can turn you into a legend," she said. After her marriage in 2023, Nong Poy had limited her participation in showbiz, primarily dedicating her time to her family. Since the beginning of this year, she has gradually returned to the entertainment industry through some fashion and beauty events. No new film projects have been announced. Nong Poy's return to the stage garnered significant attention from fans on various forums. Many beauty pages posted moments of her catwalk and speech, sparking extensive discussion. Comments such as "Nong Poy's beauty hasn't changed in 22 years," "She's still as pure as ever," "I can't take my eyes off her smile," and "There's only one Nong Poy" flooded in as the public discussed her appearance at 40. Nong Poy underwent gender reassignment surgery at 17 and won Miss International Queen a year later. She has starred in films and television series in Hong Kong and Thailand. In 2015, she became the first Thai transgender woman to be listed among the "100 most beautiful faces in the world" by TC Candler, an independent review site for cinema, art, and beauty. She married a businessman she had known for over 20 years in 2023. Trang Kamol Hospital in Thailand refers to her as one of the country's most beloved transgender actresses. According to Elle, Nong Poy embodies a "fairy-like" appearance with a gentle face and a benevolent smile. Miss International Queen, held in Thailand since 2004, is one of the largest beauty pageants for transgender women. The 20th season, themed "The Evolving Legacy: Empower Every Voice," featured 27 contestants. This year's winner was Lo Colby, a 34-year-old contestant of Thai descent from the United States, who surpassed 26 other contestants.