Smita Diwan
Netflix Thailand’s Mad Unicorn has stormed the charts with its compelling portrayal of startup life, power struggles, and ambition in the face of adversity. While the story follows Santi Saelee’s rags-to-riches journey as the founder of Thunder Express, the real heart of the series lies in the character of Xiaoyu—a bold, brilliant, and breathtakingly composed woman who holds her ground in a chaotic world of male egos and business greed.
As audiences binge-watch the series and discuss its high-stakes drama online, many women found themselves quietly cheering for someone who didn’t scream for attention— Xiao Yu, the strategist, the negotiator, and the soul of sanity in the storm.
In Mad Unicorn, Xiao Yu isn’t just a character—she’s a commanding presence brought to life by rising Thai actress Methika Jiranorraphat, formerly known as Ramida Jiranorraphat. Born on June 19, 1999, in Bangkok, Thailand, Methika delivers a breakout performance in her first major Netflix role. With grace and grit, she captures Xiao Yu’s fierce intelligence, emotional strength, and quiet elegance—making the character both relatable and unforgettable.
Who Is Xiao Yu in Mad Unicorn?
From the very first episode, XiaoYu is not just present—she is powerful. She is introduced as a woman who sees through the noise and plays the long game. Her strength lies not in confrontation, but in clarity. Her sharp business instincts, calm demeanor, and unwavering ethics set her apart.
In a world where deals are made in dark alleys and people are easily manipulated by money or emotions, Xiao Yu is both the wall and the foundation.
She begins as the co-founder of her own company and proves herself a fierce negotiator during its attempted merger. Rather than being blinded by investor promises or sweetheart deals, she does her homework—deeply investigating every red flag. Her financial literacy is unmatched in the show, and she chooses truth over shortcuts.
Even when her father falls into debt, she doesn’t lean on her wealthy fiancé for help. Instead, she takes the harder route—earning, rebuilding, and standing tall on her own merit. Her journey is one that every young woman can relate to: building her career with dignity, making tough calls, and still being emotionally available to support others.
The Woman Behind the Unicorn
As Santi builds Thunder Express, Xiaoyu doesn’t remain on the sidelines. She becomes the financial backbone of the company. She’s the one meeting venture capitalists, drafting financial roadmaps, negotiating term sheets, and handling due diligence—tasks often glamourized on screen, but rarely shown in such a grounded, realistic way for a female character.
She doesn’t get fooled easily, and she never abandons her principles. In moments where the company teeters on moral grey areas, Xiaoyu is the one holding up the mirror. She’s the conscience of Thunder Express.
Her ability to combine sharp intellect with compassion—balancing financial management with team morale—makes her a role model for modern working women.
Fashion That Speaks Power
Xiao Yu’s fashion is not just style—it’s a statement. She’s always polished yet practical. Her wardrobe in Mad Unicorn leans into neutral tones, structured blazers, tailored pants, and minimalist accessories. It’s a look that says: I mean business—but on my terms.
She’s rarely seen in overdone makeup or frilly attire. Instead, her clean lines and muted palette reflect her personality: composed, efficient, and in control. Her signature silk blouse and power ponytail combo deserve their own fanbase.
She isn’t dressing for the male gaze—she’s dressing for boardrooms, late-night pitch decks, and crisis meetings. And she owns every frame she’s in.
10 Reasons Why We Should Follow Xiao Yu
1. Master Negotiator – She evaluates every deal, reads every line, and never signs blindly.
2. Emotionally Independent – Even in crisis, she doesn’t take the easy route or rely on others’ wealth.
3. Financially Empowered – Manages a startup’s entire VC ecosystem, from fundraising to spending.
4. Ethically Grounded – Refuses to compromise her morals for growth.
5. Calm Under Pressure – Leads not by shouting, but by acting.
6. Tactful in Relationships – Offers unwavering support without losing her own voice.
7. Elegantly Powerful – Her fashion reinforces her identity, not distracts from it.
8. Sharp with People – Knows when someone’s manipulating or hiding truth.
9. A Quiet Leader – Doesn’t need the title to take charge.
10. An Inspiration to Every Woman Trying to Build Something Honest – She represents what it means to grow without losing your core.
The Real Unicorn
Mad Unicorn may be built on the highs and lows of a delivery startup, but Xiao Yu is the real unicorn in this story. She’s rare, resilient, and radiant with quiet strength. In a narrative where men fight for power, she earns it—silently, ethically, and elegantly.
Xiaoyu reminds us that being strong doesn’t mean being loud, and being ambitious doesn’t mean being ruthless. In her, we see the woman so many of us are becoming—or hope to be.
Watch Mad Unicorn to get Fuelled by Grit, Love, and the Startup Chase – Where Every Decision Costs a Dream.
