Will Marian don Darna’s costume?

Author: Joseph Peter R. Gonzales
Column: Life & Entertainment

Marian Rivera says she’s happy with the much-improved ratings of her current soap Ang Babaeng Hinugot Sa Aking Tadyang.

“Oh yes!” she says. “I remember when the show was on its initial weeks of airing, many were surprised that it didn’t post the kind of ratings Marimar and Dyesebel did. I received a lot of flak. But now, I’m just glad that many are gradually appreciating the character of Proserfina after her back story was shown. People now understand where she’s coming from, why she became the kind of person she is.”

Despite all the criticisms, the star reiterates that she doesn’t have any regret doing it.

“From the very beginning, I knew that Proserfina is not a character that viewers will instantly embrace. It will take time. For one, she has dark secrets. But what makes it special to me is the challenge it poses, acting-wise. The material is adult in nature so I didn’t expect to get the total support of younger viewers, especially those avid Marimar and Dyesebel fans.

“But at least, with Tadyang, I was able to prove my versatility, that I’m not only good in dancing, swimming or cutesy roles. Delineating the role of Proserfina definitely widened my range as an actress since she is made to undergo various degrees of emotion. The role is also very physical. So, with our better ratings at present, I feel vindicated. The more I am convinced that I made the right decision in accepting the part. I’m truly grateful to all those who now appreciate Proserfina.”

Her detractors continuously say that because Tadyang didn’t approximate the unparalleled success of both Marimar and Dyesebel, her popularity is starting to dwindle.

“I respect their opinion. As a star, you have to adjust to any given situation. You have to accept that not all the time, you are no.1. I know that I can’t please everybody. What’s important is I always give my best, especially now that Tadyang is gradually reaching its climax. A lot of surprising twists await the viewers. And another thing, I’m happy that all my endorsements renewed their contracts with me plus there are new ones, too. I can’t ask for more,” continues Marian.

The controversial actress doesn’t want to divulge what her next project for the Kapuso network will be.

“I was told that its grandiosity is in the tradition of Dyesebel. Definitely, it’s a huge production and is not easy to mount. This early, I’m already excited!”

According to the buzz, she is being considered to play Darna in GMA-7’s next big telefantasya, Darna/series/balita/" title="Captain Barbell Meets Darna">Captain Barbell Meets Darna. Will she now accept the role despite her earlier pronouncement that she’ll refuse it if ever she gets offered?

“Well, yes! I like it now! Before, I wasn’t confident yet because Darna should be voluptuous. But after the positive feedbacks I got for my sexy dance album, I feel I can do it. If the management will give it to me, I’ll give it my best shot.”Of course, the interview will not be complete without mentioning her perennial screen partner Dingdong Dantes. Many notice that they become sweeter and sweeter as days go by. Is this already an indication that they are playing beautiful music together?

“All I can say is that he inspires me to always bring out the best in me. I feel sad whenever I don’t see him. As to the question if I’m in love, just look at me. No explanation needed,” Marian meaningfully ends.

Eula returns to playing villain

According to Eula Valdez, she couldn’t ask for more with regard to her latest soap opera All about Eve, which continues to draw positive feedbacks from the viewers because of its many dramatic highlights.

“It’s a dream team! Everyone is competent, from the director to the cast. We always see to it that the scenes come out fine. It’s an acting piece for everybody so you have to be in your toes all the time. Turning in mediocre work is not an option,” she states.

In the program, she is reunited with Jean Garcia whom she worked with in another popular soap many years ago. Many are delighted to see them again on the small screen.

“It’s always a pleasant experience working with Jean. Actually, we are closer now as compared to before. Actually, I kidded her one time: ‘You know we are the perfect love team. People always get excited whenever we exchange fiery lines on screen. Regardless of the stars we are with, we are always a hit!’”

What does she think is their secret formula?

“We don’t upstage each other! We give each other the opportunity to shine. We complement each other. Jean and I don’t need to warm up in a scene. With just one look at each other, we know what to do already. That’s our magic.”

Many observe that their junior co-stars in the show, Sunshine Dizon and Iza Calzado are following in their footsteps.

“I agree!” she beams. “They’re both focused with their job. Versatile and deep, I know Shine and Iza have a long way to go in this field. Actually, they remind me of myself before: eager and enthusiastic to learn, dedicated and never gets contented with good.”

Eula is already in her 23rd year in the ‘biz.

“Yes, and I consider it a feat. I’m thankful because not everybody is given this chance to still be around despite the emergence of new faces. I guess it’s my passion for acting that spelled the big difference. I always believed that in the long haul, talent will still prevail. I love acting so much that even now that I already have a family, I still can’t turn my back on it.”

She’s thankful that her husband is supportive of her.

“Actually, he’s based in Australia. He knows I love my craft so he told me that he will just be there waiting if ever I decide to settle there in the future. I’m simply blessed with an understanding partner.”

Eula has a secret wish.

“I really hope that I get the chance to direct in the future. I hope it will be soon, say two years from now. Apart from acting, that I think will give me a different kind of high.”

Since her move to GMA-7, she already worked with a number of its junior stars like Richard Gutierrez in Kamandag, Rhian Ramos in LaLola and now, Sunshine and Iza. Who does she want in another project?

“I think, Marian and Dingdong! They’re hot and I can see they are also good performers. That’ll be exciting if ever,” Eula says.

Source: Manila Standard Today

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