July 3, 2025 — Actor and filmmaker Khetphet “KP” Phagnasay, a Central Valley native, is making waves in Hollywood with supporting roles in major productions like “Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story” and AMC’s “Interview with the Vampire.” He also appeared in Netflix’s “The Brothers Sun” alongside Michelle Yeoh and is set to star in the crime comedy “Greedy People” with Joseph Gordon-Levitt.
Born in Laos in 1973, Phagnasay immigrated to America as a refugee in the 1980s and settled in Clovis. He pursued his passion for theater at Clovis High School and earned a B.A. in Theatre Arts from Fresno State.
Beyond acting, Phagnasay is also an accomplished director. His 2018 short film, “Impossible,” garnered nine festival award nominations, including Best Director. He also teaches acting and filmmaking through his company, KP1 Studios, which he co-founded with George Ohan in 2016.
Phagnasay is deeply committed to his hometown of Clovis, stating, “Clovis is my hometown. I believe in the city, and the arts, and what they’re doing and the expansion and development.” His goal is to establish a KP1 Studio in Clovis, creating a hub for local creatives to learn and produce.
Despite the challenges in the film industry, Phagnasay has found success and is now focused on bringing the industry to Clovis. He notes the existing talent in the area, including Chris Colfer of “Glee” and Tremendum Pictures, the studio behind “The Gallows.” Phagnasay envisions Clovis as a future center for film and television productions, short films, music videos, and even a film festival.
The city of Fresno recognized his contributions by declaring March 9, 2023, as “Khetphet ‘KP’ Phagnasay Day.” Phagnasay firmly believes in Clovis’s potential: “There’s great potential of growth in Clovis, not only can they benefit, but the Central Valley can benefit. Clovis can lure and convince people to come shoot productions here. The city is expanding, and has huge potential. I believe in it.”
KP1 Studios will be holding two workshops later this year. For more information, visit kp1studios.com or contact KP Phagnasay directly at (559) 394-2179 or kp@kp1studios.com.