Chompoo Araya Prepares for Cannes 2026 – Guarantees Durian Must Be Eaten at the Orchard, Reveals Why She Still Carries Abigail
Thai superstar Chompoo Araya has revealed she's nearly 100% prepared for her upcoming appearance at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, including planning all her daily looks. In a recent interview, she shared her passion for fresh durian from orchards in Chanthaburi province, explaining that she willingly cuts all carbohydrates to indulge in her favorite fruit since it must be eaten straight from the tree for optimal flavor. She also discussed why her young daughter Abigail constantly needs to be carried, describing it as the child's emotional safe zone.
Chompoo Araya is preparing for the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, declaring her looks are nearly 100% ready and guaranteeing that durian must be eaten fresh from the orchard. She's willing to cut carbs entirely to make room for her favorite fruit, and price is no object if she loves it. The superstar, who recently appeared at a LEGO Certified Store opening at Siam Paragon, shared a delightful moment from her visit to a durian orchard in Chanthaburi province, where she enjoyed fresh durian straight from the tree and is willing to eliminate all carbohydrates to savor her favorite treat. She also updated her readiness before heading to the Cannes Film Festival red carpet this year, acknowledging that audiences have high expectations annually, but focusing on maintaining her own standards. She shared the adorable moment about her daughter Abigail, who still clings to her mother so much that she needs to be carried constantly, as it serves as her daughter's emotional safe zone.
When asked why one must go to the orchard to buy durian from Chanthaburi: "From early morning, I'll tell you it's different. When we pick and eat straight from the tree compared to when it has to travel, be transported, and sit somewhere – it's just not the same." She explained how she discovered this farm through connections and has since become close with the farm owner, visiting whenever possible because everyone in their group loves durian.
Regarding the texture and taste: "It's delicious because it ripens on the tree. Believe me, it has to be good." She describes the texture as "shredded chicken-like – soft and shreddy, not crispy."
When asked about favorite varieties, she mentioned she hasn't tried all of them this year but loves varieties like "Gob Chai Nam" (a local favorite), Monthong, and Musang King. She noted that some are originally Thai varieties that were replanted elsewhere and given new names.
Regarding family consumption: "It's just me and Auntie Jeb (the farm owner) who eat together. The kids have tried it, and Sai is starting to encourage them to eat it, but we don't force them." When asked about her intake, she emphasized that if it's not delicious, she won't eat it, but if it is, she goes all out – cutting rice and other carbohydrates entirely to make room for durian, given its high calorie content.
On the highest price she's paid: "I'm not sure – you'd have to ask Auntie Jeb since she handles the money. But I've heard premium varieties like Monthong are expensive. If I love it though, price isn't the issue."
With her Cannes trip approaching in about a week, her preparations include planning outfits, accessories, and sponsor arrangements. She maintains her regular lifestyle and self-care routine. When asked if the excitement has worn off: "If you prepare well, the actual event is quite chaotic with many sponsorship obligations to deliver. But if we plan and organize properly, it's less stressful. I'm already 100% prepared with my daily looks for each day."
Regarding communication with her mother Pom Vinij, who was heavily discussed last year: "We'll probably have a meeting before the flight. We already see each other through work, but haven't updated yet because the costume just got finalized."