A tragic incident unfolded on December 27, 2024, when a 21-year-old Thai influencer, widely known as Bank Leicester, lost his life shortly after being paid 30,000 baht to consume a 350ml bottle of whisky.

Bank, whose real name was Thanakarn Kanthee, had gained popularity on social media for his freestyle rap performances while selling flower garlands. His lively personality and determination to provide for his family made him a well-recognized figure. However, his rise to fame came at a heavy cost, as he was often seen in videos accepting risky, paid challenges, including alcohol-drinking contests.

In his final moments, a video captured Bank completing the whisky challenge. Soon after, he began vomiting and was rushed to the hospital. The video showed partygoers laughing at the scene, sparking outrage among netizens who condemned their lack of empathy. Despite efforts to save him, Bank was pronounced dead at 3:40 a.m.

In a haunting reminder of his struggles, an earlier social media post by Bank resurfaced, in which he wrote: "I am willing to be bullied and insulted just to get scraps of money from the rich people in order to provide for my family."

The Life Story of Bank Leicester

Banks life was marked by resilience and sacrifice. Raised by his 80-year-old grandmother, Pornthip Sangrit (Grandma Lek), after his parents separated, Bank grew up in a modest home in the Sai Mai area of Bangkok. His grandmother described him as a slow learner who was once diagnosed with a low IQ. Despite this, she said he managed his daily life normally and worked tirelessly to support his family.

Bank became the breadwinner of the household, which included his grandmother and another family member who only worked irregular day jobs. He paid a portion of their 3,500-baht monthly mortgage, covered other household expenses, and ensured his ailing grandmother received medical care. Grandma Lek, who suffers from diabetes, hypertension, and osteoporosis, underwent hip surgery just two months ago and relied heavily on Bank for her appointments and daily needs.

To make ends meet, Bank sold flower garlands on the streets, using his talent for freestyle rap to attract customers. Despite his efforts, he often faced bullying and humiliation, which he accepted as part of his work. His online presence, while bringing him fame, also exposed him to dangerous opportunities, such as the drinking challenges that ultimately claimed his life.

Grandma Lek, devastated by his untimely death, lamented, "If I had known he was being bullied and mocked, I would never have let him do this kind of work." She is now left grappling with an uncertain future, unsure how she will pay the mortgage or maintain their home without her grandson, who was the family's pillar of support.

The tragedy has sparked widespread discussion about the exploitation of vulnerable individuals for online content and the moral responsibilities of those who engage in such practices.