Jennylyn Mercado has already found her Matteo Do and the lucky actor’s name is Gil Cuerva.
Early this year, there were speculations that Alden Richards would star opposite Jennylyn in the local adaptation of My Love from the Star, the romantic Korean drama that took Asian TV by storm in 2014. Other names surfaced including Ken Chan, Richard Juan, Lharby Policarpio, Jake Ejercito and Ken Alfonso as some of the Kapuso actors who auditioned and being considered for the role originally played by Korean superstar Kim Soo Hyun.
In an announcement that rather surprised Kapuso fans, the network introduced a virtually unknown newbie to star opposite the more experienced and seasoned actress.
Now, people are asking: How can Gil Cuerva measure up to Jennylyn Mercado? Is he a reasonable investment for GMA 7?
We haven’t seen Gil acted before, but we know that the 21-year-old showbiz green apple is half-Spanish and he’s one of the most sought-after print and ramp male models on the local fashion scene. His long locks, defined jaw and chinky eyes are his main selling points as a model.
In a recent interview, Gil admitted that he’s very nervous in his first acting stint and it was pure determination that gave him the guts to audition for the coveted role. He also shared that he was surprised upon hearing the news of his casting since he didn’t expect to get it. He then started watching the entire series and underwent a series of acting workshops facilitated by Joyce Bernal, who is directing the local adaptation of the hit Korean drama.
“Right now, I’m still getting familiar with the whole experience. I’m trying to embrace everything including the pressure that comes with it. I promise to always put my best foot forward. Pagdating ko sa set, remove all inhibition, 100 percent ang effort ko,” says the 5-foot-11 model turned actor.
In this romantic fantasy series, Gil plays Matteo Do (or Do Min-joon in the original version of the series), an alien who landed on Earth in the Joseon Dynasty and, 400 years later, falls in love with Steffi Cheon (originally played by Jun Ji Hyun), a top actress in the modern era.
Last week, Gil and Jennylyn started taping for the upcoming series. Behind the scenes photos have flooded social media, too, an indication that fans are content with Gil being cast to play an important role.
“Madali siyang katrabaho at magaling siyang artist. I learned a lot from her,” says Gil who also feels very excited to work with the rest of the cast.
