Empoy on finally finding fame—as a leading man: It feels like a fairy tale

Alessandra de Rossi (left) and Empoy Marquez

As the cliché goes, love comes from the most unexpected places. But in the hit movie, “Kita Kita,” love blooms between the most unlikely persons: Alessandra de Rossi (Lea) and Empoy Marquez (Tonyo) hit our hearts’ bull’s-eye.

Bravo to the newest love team (“AlEmpoy”) in Tinseltown. They endeared themselves to the audience without having to try too hard. They’re too adorable for words. The “couple’s” bittersweet story shows us that love isn’t always about fireworks.

Sometimes, it just comes gently like a feather landing on our hands. The movie reminded me of the famous quote from “The Little Prince” that goes: “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly. What is essential is invisible to the eye.”

I am more than happy for Empoy, because he has come a long way. I fondly remember the time he gamely joined me and my friends for a karaoke night-out. Empoy is laughing gas in human form. No need for canned laughter when he tickles our funny bone.

Here’s my chat with Empoy:

What did you learn from your character, Tonyo? To keep loving even if your heart has been broken. To choose to be happy no matter what trials you’re going through. Live it up because life is short.

How were you able to relate to Tonyo? Just like Tonyo, I love surprising my loved ones.

Which network are you signing up with? I want to be a freelancer. I want to be open to all and explore the industry more.

What’s next for AlEmpoy? I heard that Alex and I will do another movie. I hope it pushes through.

Do you have a crush on Alex? I have a crush on her personality, because she’s really kind.

How would you feel if you learned that Alex has a boyfriend? Whatever makes my friend happy, I will be happy for her. I just hope he won’t be against our love team.

What was your most memorable off-cam moment with her during your shoot in Japan? When we went jogging at an oval, and some Japanese made us leave, saying it was prohibited to jog there. We kept laughing because we could not understand what they were saying. It was a “lost in translation” moment. We had to rely on “sign language” (laughs).

Which scene in the movie made you feel giddy the most? When we were riding the boat, and when we were dancing while I was blindfolded.

How are you handling your newfound fame after the success of the movie? It feels like a dream and a fairy tale. I never thought this would happen to me. I won’t let fame change me. I will let it inspire me to do better in each project.

What type of girl would you fall for? A simple girl who has no hang-ups. Someone whose beauty is like Kaye Abad’s.

What makes you cry or angry? When I see my loved ones sad. I hardly get angry.

What’s your asset that lures women? My moustache.

What will you do with your bonus from “Kita Kita?” I will save it for my future and my “forever.”

If your life story were made into a movie, what would the title be? “Happy Crying Clown.”

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Even if her hubby, boxer Manny Pacquiao, and their five children are on top of her list, Jinkee Pacquiao makes sure not to neglect herself. Her visits to Dr. Vicki Belo have boosted her confidence. No wonder Jinkee is a knockout.