Hollywood actor and director Steven Seagal says he is grieving over the loss of His Majesty the King.
The 64-year-old star said he felt saddened by the loss of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej who dedicated himself to his people for many decades.
Seagal was speaking after meeting Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha at Government House yesterday. A frequent visitor to Thailand, the actor is visiting on this occasion to pay his respects to His Majesty the late king.
The movie star said he was impressed by the number of His Majesty's projects aimed at helping Thais, particularly farmers, in remote areas.
After reading several books about the late King, Seagal said he became interested in Thai culture and martial arts such as Muay Thai. He is now learning the Thai language.
Seagal also plans to shoot a new film, Attrition Siam, in Thailand. In the film, Seagal's character will work with Thai authorities to destroy a human trafficking ring. Scenes depicting Thai culture and Thai boxing will also be included in the movie. The actor said the idea to make the movie came after he read about Thailand being put on the US Trafficking in Persons (TIP) report's Tier 3 watch list,and later being upgraded to Tier 2. He said the prime minister asked him during their meeting if he could help create a good image of the country as Thai authorities have stepped up efforts to crack down on human trafficking.