I call Mark Herras “Georgie.” That’s because he looks like a younger Pinoy version of George Clooney. The “Starstruck” heartthrob topbills GMA 7’s afternoon series, “Bihag” (weekdays after “Dragon Lady”). It is a riveting tale of how one mistake can lead to another.
Here’s my chat with Mark:
What was the most important lesson you learned from your breakup with Wyn Marquez? I learned that a relationship must be balanced. It must be give and take. Both of you must be happy with the decisions you make together. Listen to your partner more.
What should a girl do to “capture” you? She should accept and love me totally, whether it’s my positive or negative side.
What do you find hard to understand about girls? Mood swings.
Tell us how your latest character challenges you. I play the role of SPO1 Larry, the lead investigator in the kidnapping case of Ethan (Raphael Landicho). It’s a dream role of mine. Larry does everything he can to find the kid, not just for justice, but also because he desires Ethan’s mom, portrayed by Max Collins.
Do you watch the rival show? Nope. I just focus on my show. During commercial breaks, I reply to text messages and comments on social media about the show and my portrayal.
What’s your unsolicited advice to “StarStruck” contestants? Listen well and take to heart what their coaches teach them. They must bear in mind that it’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance, so they must give their 101 percent. Be humble and be true to themselves. Respect everyone in the industry.
What will you reflect on this Holy Week? I’ll pray for myself and my loved ones. I will thank God for all the blessings, and reflect on how I can become a better man.
Coco’s rumored baby
Some quarters are pinpointing Coco Martin as the father of the rumored baby of Julia Montes. Many controversies ago, sexy star Katherine Luna claimed that Coco is the dad of her son, but the Kapamilya superstar vehemently denied this.
During Coco’s early years in the biz, he and Katherine worked together in indie films. Long before Coco became famous, many girls already wanted a piece of him.
Queen of all Darnas
Since Liza Soberano’s finger is sore, she can no longer soar as Darna. If she had her way, the Kapamilya sweetheart would still push through with the project. She is ready and willing, but is unable to portray the iconic role.
Since the search is on for the next actress to play the superheroine, I thought of reprinting excerpts from my interview with the “Queen of all Darnas,” Vilma Santos.
I cornered Ate Vi about her Darna thoughts after Angel Locsin backed out from reprising the role that catapulted her to fame.
Here’s what she said: “All actresses dream of playing Darna. It’s a plus factor in their career if they land the iconic role. When you are Darna, you already have a captive market. Kuha mo agad ang attention ng kids. We have new stars who are more than qualified to be the next Darna, but I’d rather not name names at baka maipit ako (laughs). Too bad Angel had to back out, but her health is more important.
“In order to become Darna, an actress must be believable. She must also have a strong personality. She has to be charming and compassionate. [These are the] qualities that Darna possesses.
“I made four Darna movies. Those were milestones in my career.”