Nothing more iconic than a Parisian moment for Freen.
By Chayanan Bunnak – published
After the premiere of Gap: The Series on 19 November 2022, Sarocha “Freen” Chankimha gained recognition and rose to popularity, sweeping numerous accolades across a variety of Thai award shows. Fast forward to May 2024, Freen fronted the cover of Harper’s BAZAAR Singapore with Rebecca “Becky” Patricia Armstrong.
Freen shows no signs of slowing down. Since then, she has gone on to attend the Cannes Film Festival in May of 2024, and starred in The Loyal Pin. September saw the Thai celebrity making her Paris Fashion Week debut at the Valentino spring/summer 2025 show.
Ahead, Freen tells us about her time in Paris with Maison Valentino, her recent roles, and the future of Thai entertainment.
I was very happy and excited to have such a wonderful opportunity. I never thought I would get to watch a show by Alessandro Michele for Valentino. It was very thrilling. I was particularly impressed by the storytelling throughout the show. From the broken mirrors on the floor to the unique seats for each guest, everything offered a distinct experience. The music used for the show was captivating, and most importantly, the outfits—each look showcased exquisite craftsmanship and intricate details. The lines and designs he created left a lasting impression on me.
What trends do you anticipate emerging in the fashion industry following your experience at the Maison Valentino show under Alessandro Michele’s creative direction?
I believe fashion will be closely watched and gain more attention due to the re-emergence of Alessandro Michele’s creativity. His work is beautiful and captivating at the same time. People will likely focus on his designs, which seem to incorporate elements of mystery and intrigue. This collection will definitely receive global recognition once it is available, and I will be one of those who appreciates it.
What was your most memorable experience working with Maison Valentino?
I have been following Maison Valentino for a long time, and attending the first show in Paris, crafted by Alessandro Michele, filled me with immense joy. Working with such a prestigious brand is an experience I will never forget. Everything was new for me, and I will cherish those memories. Trying new things, meeting people, discovering new places, and gathering experiences has truly been remarkable.
Which look did you like the most from the fashion set in Paris with Maison Valentino? How was your photography session in Paris? Did the environment affect this shoot in any way?
Choosing my favorite look from this fashion set was really challenging because I loved every outfit! One of my favorite looks was a red top paired with a cute skirt. It was delightful to shoot at a bus stop in lovely weather; Paris itself is beautiful. If I hadn’t done this shoot, I might never have had such enjoyable experiences. The charm of the city enhanced my joy while shooting, and I hope everyone loves this fashion set as much as I do.
How do you feel about your recent roles? What challenges do they present?
What new insights have you gained from your latest project?
From working on every project, I feel a strong sense of responsibility—whether it’s preparing for the script, maintaining good health, or being prepared for teamwork, especially in large groups. I’ve learned the importance of responsibility, discipline, and overcoming challenges. Every day presents various situations, and I aim to deliver the best possible outcomes while fully embracing my responsibilities.
What do you envision for the future of the Thai entertainment industry, or what expectations do you have for its development?
I believe that the Thai entertainment industry will flourish significantly. More people are enjoying Thai series and films compared to the past because our industry has been developing each year. With increasingly accessible platforms and a greater variety of content, consumers’ needs are well met. As someone within the industry, I have a better understanding of consumer demands, where the focus has to be on producing high-quality content that respects the audience. I foresee the Thai entertainment industry evolving to a level comparable to international standards, supported by fans around the world.