Empress’ network move like ‘changing schools’

YOUNG actress admits she was “hurt” because she didn’t get enough projects in her old channel. RICHARD A. REYES

Young actress Empress Schuck, whose career was pushed to the back burner in her last year and a half with ABS-CBN, admitted that the idea of quitting show biz had at one point crossed her mind.

“I was doubting and blaming myself for it. I really felt down, but I think it was just normal; I’m only human,” Empress told reporters at a recent press conference for the coming afternoon drama series on GMA 7, “Kailan Ba Tama ang Mali.”

Empress, 21, now works as a freelance talent, after the expiration of her three-year contract with the Kapamilya network last year. “But this recent offer got my spirits up once more…I’m very thankful for it,” said the celeb, who actually started in the industry as a child star on GMA 7.

Asked if she harbored any ill feelings against ABS-CBN for not giving her enough acting projects, Empress said that she was, indeed, hurt.

“I was with them since I was about 15; I was loyal to them. But of course, I couldn’t voice it out directly [to the management],” she related.

“But that’s life,” said Empress, who maintained that she and ABS-CBN parted ways amicably. “And all you can do is move on.”

Prior to her return to GMA 7, Empress was last seen in the show “Huwag Ka Lang Mawawala” and in “Maalaala Mo Kaya.”

“Transferring networks is like changing schools,” she pointed out. “It was tough, but everyone here made it so much easier for me.”

“Kailan Ba Tama ang Mali,” directed by Gil Tejada Jr., centers on a four-pronged love story involving Sonya (Empress), Leo (Geoff Eigenmann), Amanda (Max Collins) and Oliver (Dion Ignacio). The drama series premieres Feb. 9.

Daring role

Empress said that her role is perhaps her most daring yet. There are kissing scenes, for one. And they were not faked,” Empress quipped, adding that she used to refuse such scenes because she thought she was still too young for them.

“But I’m almost 22 now, so go! I guess it’s about time. I don’t see any reason not to do it,” she said. “I need to grow as an actress.”

She likewise expressed a desire to tackle more offbeat roles.

“I want to be challenged, to show the people that I can do other things. I want viewers to see something fresh, especially now that I have a new show,” Empress said.

Given the chance, Empress said she would love to work with Alden Richards, among GMA 7’s roster of leading men.

“He seems kind and has a great aura onscreen. I think he’s good,” she said.

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