"If you do this... you'll definitely get on TV show XXX."
In recent years, many popular "hard talk" interview programs on Thai television and online have been used as a "platform" to invite all parties involved in current social conflicts to discuss the facts, reach understandings, find solutions, or even find ways to resolve the problems.
This can be observed from being tagged in show names or being mentioned whenever viral dramas occur online.
Many issues involve legal cases, leading to the perception that people lack trust in the justice system and therefore seek solutions on 'screen' instead of at police stations or in court.
While these programs have gained credibility and created a real impact, some have also been criticized for asking leading questions, judging participants too quickly, and even overstepping the boundaries of journalism.
To answer that question, we invite everyone to take a step back to see a broader and clearer picture of what Thai society expects from those hard-talk programs – and whether that expectation pertains to the role of media professionals.
either
...Is this an interview program that focuses on presenting facts comprehensively and without bias?
...Is this a mock court to seek justice for the victims?
...Is this a platform to expose hypocrites or false wise men?
...is it a place for debate, where those involved can clash verbally?
...Is it a theater where shows are performed for entertainment?
Or it could be a combination of several of the above.
Discussing 'roles' is important because it defines the 'responsibilities' and even the 'expectations' of the audience and society.
What does Thai society expect from those Hard Talk programs?
1. What constitutes hard talk?
Before we discuss what Thai society expects, let's first understand the definition of what constitutes a 'Hard Talk interview'.
And how is it different from a typical interview show?
Of course, this type of program falls under the umbrella of talk shows, which have evolved alongside television. Their basic format is simple: a host interviews guests on various topics.
Bernard M. Timberg and Robert J. Erler co-authored a book, "Television Talk: A History of the TV Talk Show," published in 2002, that, while focusing primarily on talk shows aired in the United States, provides a general overview of the international development of this genre. The book divides the evolution of talk shows into five eras based on broadcasting technology, production formats (live or pre-recorded), regulation (government or internal), and content (entertainment or educational). It notes that "hard talk," which focuses on in-depth discussions of current events, began gaining popularity in the 2545s and culminated in its peak popularity in the 5s.
One of the world's most famous Hard Talk programs is BBC's HARDtalk, which began airing in 1997. Host Stephen Zucker defined Hard Talk as a show where people sit down and discuss serious and in-depth issues. Editor Carrie Clark added, "We always keep in mind what the audience wants. They expect us to ask difficult questions in a world full of misinformation and speculation. This is a show that scrutinizes those in power and delves into important issues."
In Thailand, there are several research studies that attempt to define "Hard Talk" or "news discussion" programs, such as:
"It's a substantive talk show that aims to present facts, answer questions, analyze, critique, and educate about phenomena and situations occurring in society, including social, economic, and political aspects. These types of talk shows often rely heavily on the host's ability to elicit answers from the participants."
—Thesis: Interview Styles and Techniques of Television Talk Show Hosts by Jitsukhum Puangphet (2548)
"It's a news talk show or discussion program with a key element being the host... The topics discussed are usually those of public interest, issues that people want to know the answers to, whether on social media or in various media outlets. Therefore, the presentation must be in-depth, seeking answers beyond the information that people in society already know."
—Thesis: Audience Attitudes Towards News Talk Programs for Program Strategy Development, by Thinnapop Panthanam (2561)
Do you have a clearer picture now of what makes up the Hard Talk show?
- The format is an interview between the host and the guest.
- The content involves discussing social phenomena to present facts, answer questions, analyze, critique, or educate, and to provide answers that go beyond what people already know.
- They often ask difficult questions to scrutinize those in power or to delve deeper into key issues.
Besides the topic and the guests, a key factor in determining the popularity of a show is the style and ability of the host.
2. Hard Talk in a 'Thai Style'
In Thailand, "Hard Talk" programs have existed for decades, but the one that is often discussed more recently is "Kom Chad Luek," which aired on Nation TV from 2543 to 2546 and was hosted by Sorayuth Suthasnajinda. Sorayuth later moved to host a similar program called "Thung Luk Thung Khon" on Modernine TV (Channel 9 MCOT) from 2546 to 2549.
Before many similar programs appeared, especially during the transition from 'analog TV' with only 6 national television channels to 'digital TV' with 24 national television channels in 2557.
This does not include the emergence of online news outlets in recent years.
The popularity of Hard Talk programs among Thai viewers led the Federation of Radio and Television Professionals, organizers of the Nataraj Awards (one of the most prestigious awards in the television industry), to compare it to the Emmy Awards in the United States, by adding a 'Best Hard Talk Program' award category in 2560 for the first time.
Up until 2567, 15 Hard Talk programs were nominated for the award, and the winners are as follows:
- In 2560, 'Ask Directly with Chomkwan' was broadcast on Thairath TV.
- In 2561, 'Ask Directly with Chomkwan' was broadcast on Thairath TV.
- In 2562, 'Ask Directly with Chomkwan' was broadcast on Thairath TV.
- In 2020, no award for Best Hard Talk Show was announced due to the COVID-19 situation.
- In 2564, 'Debate Without Arguing' was broadcast on Channel 7.
- In 2565, 'Hone Krasae' (Current Affairs Program) on Channel 3.
- In 2566, 'Talk to Think' on Thai PBS channel.
- In 2567, 'Hone Krasae' (Current Affairs Program) on Channel 3.
While the general format of Thai Hard Talk shows is not much different from its international counterpart, it has its own unique characteristics, especially the way the host conducts the show, which is a crucial factor in determining whether the show will be popular or not.
The research paper, "Characteristics and Interviewing Techniques of Thai Hard Talk Program Hosts," by Wacharin Tinchote, published in 2566, highlights the importance of Thai Hard Talk program hosts as follows:
"Thai hard-talk programs differ significantly in content from those abroad. Foreign hard-talk programs tend to be serious, featuring in-depth, direct, and straightforward interviews. Thai programs, however, strive for a balance between substantive and entertaining elements. Substantive content comes from interviewing guests on specific topics, connecting them to legal aspects, or tracing the issues to social structures. Entertainment, on the other hand, is created by making the program colorful and less stressful, allowing viewers to enjoy following the discussions."
"A key factor in making a program appealing is the 'host', who must possess the qualities and interviewing techniques mentioned in the research results. This includes creating a relaxed atmosphere by using informal language or an informal tone to evoke emotions in both the guest and the audience. Furthermore, they must create attention-grabbing (dramatized) topics to boost ratings, allowing the program and the station to continue operating in the television industry."
Watcharin also stated that the content of the Hard Talk programs analyzed (studying three popular programs: 'Ask Directly with Chomkwan', 'Debate Without Arguing', and 'Hoen Krasae') mostly consists of complaints seeking justice. These programs often invite experts in various fields, such as lawyers, to act as assistant hosts in asking questions. Meanwhile, the main host's personality is adjusted from 'good and neutral' to 'bold in asking questions and fair.' The host's questioning techniques change according to the audience's needs, sometimes involving concise or leading questions.
This is characteristic of Thai-style Hard Talk shows.
3. To what extent can a media professional do?
In the television industry, where success is constantly measured by ratings, hard talk shows strive to adapt their formats to meet viewer demands and achieve high popularity. This sometimes raises questions about whether they are still fulfilling their role as responsible media outlets.
The program that has received heavy criticism is 'Hone Krasae' on Channel 3, hosted by Noom-Phudit (formerly Kanchai) Kamnerdploy, which could be considered the number one hard talk show at the moment.
In early 2568, he continuously reported on the extramarital affairs of a male singer and actor (Tono-Pakorn Khamwilaisak), leading to criticism that he only focused on "husband-and-wife" issues. He subsequently clarified that he wasn't Superman, requiring him to learn about various subjects including law, medicine, and children's rights. He also mentioned having handled cases involving influential figures, corrupt police officers, and soldiers, often risking his life and safety. Yet, he was still criticized for only dealing with marital problems.
"There are some things I don't do, not because I don't want to, but because sometimes I'm not good at them and don't have enough knowledge in those areas. Many other channels and programs present things much better than I do, so I'm afraid that if I were to do it, I'd just be adding insult to injury."
Previously, in 2024, the program 'Hone Krasae' was suspended from broadcasting for one day by the National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission (NBTC) for presenting content that incited hatred among people in society. It allowed sources to slander or implicate other individuals in a provocative, abusive, and vulgar manner, using language that was violent, insulting, and degrading.
Data from research titled "Content Regulation of Radio and Television Programs by the NBTC between 2565 and 2567" by Professor Pansasiri Kulab indicates that between 2565 and 2567, this popular program, Hard Talk, was among the top five television programs receiving the most complaints to the NBTC.
In the past, Num-Kanchai has given several interviews about the role he wants to play, while also addressing various criticisms, including being a vigilante, acting as a neutral party rather than a mediator, and even being an influential figure.
- The show's name, 'Hone Krasae' (Hoan Krasae - Climbing the Wave), clearly indicates that anything that's trending will be covered. And we won't just interview people about positive, idealistic stories, because personally, I see the world in shades of gray, with scammers lurking in all forms. If we only present the good side, people won't be aware of the deception. (Interview with The STANDARD, 2564)
- Clarifying the issue of "vigilante justice" and accusations of judging people, he insists that he doesn't judge, but merely speaks within the context of society. Sometimes, when a guest only presents one side of the story, he has to offer another perspective and let the audience decide. "Personally, I don't believe in neutrality, but fairness must exist." (Interview given on Na Nek's "Lao Kor Lao Wa" program in 2566)
- He explained his role as an intermediary in delivering checks to the victim's family in the Praewa case, which led to criticism that he overstepped his role as a journalist: "Being a journalist means people need to be able to rely on us, and they need to be able to rely on us in many ways, not just for presenting news and then moving on." (Interview with Thairath newspaper, 2563)
- He denies being an 'influential figure,' but says that if he were, he would use it to improve society and help those in need. (Interview with Matichon newspaper, 2563)
4. What Thai people should expect from the Hard Talk program.
In the past, hard talk interview programs have often been the subject of academic discussion regarding whether they constitute news programs. This is because some episodes contain content unrelated to current news issues, or they may present ethically questionable material, leading to frequent complaints and criticism. This is a problem that regulatory bodies like the NBTC (National Broadcasting and Telecommunications Commission) may continue to face.
In a distorted society where government mechanisms malfunction and the justice system fails to address the needs, and where some law enforcement officers themselves become criminals, when problems arise, instead of turning to existing solutions, people turn to the media to perform a variety of functions. The media is tasked with not only presenting accurate, complete, and well-rounded facts, but also with providing comprehensive information.
It's no wonder that many popular Hard Talk shows are calling me. Because when I appear on that show, my voice gets louder, the problems get the attention of those in power, or even get resolved immediately.
But we—as citizens—should constantly question and reflect on what "boundaries" the media should not cross in order to continue performing its "function" appropriately, to remain a voice and help people, without becoming part of the problem itself.
