John Estrada gives old role a new twist

I remember meeting John Estrada during his “Palibhasa Lalake” days. Even as a newbie in the biz, he already stood out. How he has metamorphosed into an A-list actor.

John is all set to enthrall viewers again in ABS-CBN’s “Magpahanggang Wakas” (which premieres tonight after “FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano”). He portrays a rich businessman who gets entangled in a tempestuous love triangle with the characters portrayed by Jericho Rosales and Arci Muñoz. Let the trio take us to their world of loving dangerously.

My chat with John:

What kind of John Estrada will we see in your new series?

I’ve played the role of a rich, successful businessman many times. The challenge is to give this role a new flavor, a new slant, to make the character more interesting. I’d like to surprise the viewers about the same old role they usually see me in, but with a twist.

What did you discover about Echo and Arci now that you are working with them?

It’s my first time to work with both actors. They’re nice people, hardworking and easy to get along with.

If you were still single, would you fall for a girl who has a dark past, just like your character in the series?

JOHN Estrada

If you fall in love with someone, you fall in love with the whole package—imperfections and all.

I don’t mind a lady with a dark past, as long as she’s no longer living in the past. As long as she has a good heart and love me as much as I love her, then love conquers all.

What advice did you give your daughter Inah before she joined show biz?

To just be herself, enjoy what she’s doing and learn from fellow actors. To focus on improving herself and nurture her spirit through a strong relationship with God.

How do you and wife Priscilla Meirelles handle misunderstandings?

We sit down and talk about it like the adults that we are. Open communication with an open mind is the key to fixing any misunderstanding. You also have to be a good listener and be sensitive to your partner’s needs.

What’s your advice to  other interracial couples on how to make their relationship work?

There’s not much difference with Pri’s culture and ours. That’s probably why I don’t feel the difference…A lot of her values and ways are very Filipino. Like being prim and proper, like how she raises our daughter.

The thing about making any relationship work is continuously making it exciting. Continue to woo your wife.

How do you handle women who flirt with you, even if they know that you’re taken?

I’d like to think I’ve reached a level of maturity wherein I find flirting such a waste of time. I’d rather have meaningful conversations and build long-lasting friendships.

Teachers’ celebration

PLDT Gabay Guro’s (GG) ninth Teacher’s Tribute will be held on Sept. 25 at the MOA Arena (exclusive for teachers only, free admission), featuring Lea Salonga, Regine Velasquez, Pops Fernandez, Ogie Alcasid, Gary Valenciano, James Reid, Nadine Lustre and Sharon Cuneta. Big raffle prizes, such as a house and lot and vehicles, are at stake.