Chai Hansen, a Thai-Australian actor, has captivated audiences with his dynamic performances in TV series like The New Legends of Monkey and Mako Mermaids. Born on February 8, 1989, in Ko Samui, Thailand, Chai Hansen’s age is 36 years old as of 2025. With an estimated net worth of $1 million, he’s made a name for himself through acting, endorsements, and music video appearances. Currently, Hansen is single, with no confirmed reports of him being married or dating. This article delves into his biography, career milestones, salary insights, and recent updates, offering a fresh perspective on his journey.
Early Life and Background: Chai Hansen’s Roots and Age
Born Surachai Romruen on a small island in Thailand, Chai Hansen’s age reflects a life of diverse experiences. His father, Superut Romruen, is Thai with Chinese ancestry, while his mother, Sandra Hansen, is Australian. At age seven, Chai, along with his mother and sister Sarah Romruen, relocated to southeast Queensland, Australia, for better educational opportunities. This move shaped his multicultural identity, blending Thai, Chinese, and Australian influences. Growing up, Hansen was an accomplished athlete, securing a silver medal in the triple jump at the 2006 Australian National All Schools Championships and setting records in Australia and Canada.
His passion for performance emerged early. As a child, Chai was drawn to storytelling, often reenacting scenes from movies with his sister. This natural flair led him to pursue a Diploma in Performing Arts in 2011, earned through a scholarship, marking the start of his acting journey.
Chai Hansen’s Career: From Athlete to Acclaimed Actor
Chai Hansen’s career is a testament to versatility. Before acting, he excelled as a track and field athlete and dancer, skills that later enhanced his on-screen presence, particularly in physically demanding roles. His acting debut came in 2012 with the role of Sean McComb in Dead Moon Circus, followed by a voiceover in its 2013 sequel. His breakout role was as Zac Blakely, a merman in Mako Mermaids (2013–2016), which aired on Network Ten and gained international acclaim. This role showcased his ability to blend charm and athleticism, earning him a global fanbase.
Hansen’s career soared with roles like Ilian in The 100 (2017) and Jordan Kyle, a werewolf in Shadowhunters (2018). His portrayal of Monkey in The New Legends of Monkey (2018–2020) cemented his status as a leading actor, requiring martial arts training for intense fight scenes. In 2021, he joined Night Sky as Jude, and from 2021 to 2025, he played Tim Ahern in The Newsreader. In 2025, Hansen was cast in Stan Australia’s Watching You, a series exploring surveillance and privacy, set for release later this year IMDb.
Recent Projects and Career Updates in 2025
As of 2025, Chai Hansen continues to expand his portfolio. His role in Watching You has sparked buzz for its timely themes, reflecting society’s growing concerns about surveillance. Additionally, he’s reportedly in talks for a new sci-fi series, though details remain under wraps. Hansen’s ability to tackle diverse genres—from fantasy to drama—sets him apart. Unlike many actors, he balances mainstream roles with indie projects, such as the 2018 film Thicker Than Water, which won a Festival Award.
Chai Hansen’s Net Worth and Salary Insights
Chai Hansen’s net worth is estimated at $1 million in 2025, a significant increase from earlier estimates of $500,000 Famous Birthdays. His income stems from acting, endorsements, and appearances in music videos and commercials. The average salary for an Australian actor ranges from AU$29,926 to AU$103,065 annually, but Hansen’s high-profile roles likely place him at the upper end Payscale. His five-year contract with The New Legends of Monkey producers, combined with recurring roles in series like The Newsreader, ensures a steady income stream.
A unique insight: Hansen’s decision to adopt his mother’s surname, Hansen, over Romruen during The 100 reflects a strategic rebranding to align with his Australian identity, potentially boosting his marketability in Western markets.
Personal Life: Is Chai Hansen Married or Dating?
Chai Hansen remains single and is not married as of 2025. His private nature fuels speculation about his dating life. In 2016, rumors linked him with co-star Ivy Latimer due to their on-screen chemistry in Mako Mermaids and shared social media posts. Both denied the relationship, clarifying they were close friends Who’s Dated Who. Subsequent rumors about his sexuality were debunked by Hansen and supported by colleagues, highlighting the media’s tendency to sensationalize his private life.
Hansen’s Instagram (@chaihansen) offers glimpses into his life, featuring travel, fitness, and family moments, particularly with his mother and niece. Unlike many celebrities, he avoids oversharing, maintaining a low-key presence that resonates with fans seeking authenticity.
Unique Perspective: Chai Hansen’s Multicultural Influence
Hansen’s Thai-Australian heritage brings a unique lens to his roles. In a 2023 interview, he shared how his upbringing across cultures informs his acting: “Growing up between Thailand and Australia gave me a dual perspective—I bring that to every character, whether it’s a merman or a mythic hero.” This multicultural depth enriches his performances, making him a standout in diverse casts. His athletic background also informs his approach, allowing him to perform stunts with precision, as seen in The New Legends of Monkey.
Chai Hansen Biography Table
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Surachai Romruen (known as Chai Hansen) |
| Date of Birth | February 8, 1989 |
| Age | 36 years old (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Ko Samui, Thailand |
| Nationality | Thai-Australian |
| Ethnicity | Thai, Australian, Chinese |
| Parents | Superut Romruen (father), Sandra Hansen (mother) |
| Sibling | Sarah Romruen (sister) |
| Education | Diploma in Performing Arts, 2011 |
| Height | 5 feet 10 inches (178 cm) |
| Weight | 76 kg |
| Zodiac Sign | Aquarius |
| Profession | Actor, former athlete, dancer |
| Notable Roles | Zac Blakely (Mako Mermaids), Monkey (The New Legends of Monkey), Jude (Night Sky) |
| Net Worth | $1 million (estimated, 2025) |
| Salary Range | AU$29,926–AU$103,065 annually (industry average) |
| Marital Status | Single, not married |
| Dating History | Rumored with Ivy Latimer (2016, denied) |
| Social Media | Instagram: @chaihansen, Twitter: @chai_hansen |
| Recent Projects | Watching You (2025, Stan Australia) |
| Athletic Achievements | Silver medal in triple jump, Australian National All Schools Championships 2006 |
| Hobbies | Travel, fitness, dance |
Conclusion: Chai Hansen’s Rising Star
Chai Hansen is more than an actor—he’s a cultural bridge, blending Thai and Australian influences into his craft. At 36, his net worth of $1 million reflects a thriving career, with roles in The Newsreader and Watching You signaling more to come. While he keeps his dating life private and remains unmarried, his focus on acting and personal growth resonates with fans. Follow his journey on Instagram (@chaihansen) or explore his filmography on IMDb and Wikipedia. Hansen’s story is one of resilience, talent, and global appeal.
