AJ Muhlach remains unaffected with the general observation that his original screen partner Nadine Lustre has already gone a long way in her showbiz career compared to him, especially with the current popularity of JaDine.
“Honestly, I’m not jealous or have any ill feelings towards her present success,” he says. “While it’s true that our screen pair was first to be launched via TV 5’s Bagets’ and P.S. I Love You, her movies with James (Reid) made a big killing at the tills and they became established as a love team. For me, it’s just okay. I don’t really feel that I’m left in the race. It’s just about phasing. I believe that everyone has his or her own time to shine. It’s my life anyway. I don’t want to compare myself with others.”
Many are curious if he didn’t regret that his love team with Nadine was short-lived.
“In truth, nope. Perhaps, it wasn’t meant to be in order to give birth to the JaDine pair. I even appeared in two of their movies, Diary ng Panget and Para sa Hopeless Romantic. What’s good is that my friendship with Nadine and even James remains intact. There’s no bad blood whatsoever. As I’ve said, I don’t have any axe to grind.”
Curiously, did he court the dusky young actress when Viva first paired them?
“Nope! That’s for the record. You know, basically, I’m the shy-type of guy when it comes to courtship. Even until now. Ha-ha-ha! During those times, Nadine and I were already good friends and I’m glad that we’ve maintained it despite our not seeing each other of late due to our hectic schedules.”
Speaking of busy workload, AJ gets his biggest break as Viva launches him to lead status via the upcoming action flick titled, Double Barrel: Sige, Iputok Mo!
“Yes! I’m so proud of this vehicle because it’s under the helm of Direk Toto Natividad who is considered one of the master directors of the action genre. His work in Coco Martin’s Ang Probinsyano on ABS-CBN is a clear proof of how excellent he is when it comes to his turf. It’s really a huge honor that he chose me for the lead role.”
This is a complete turnabout from the romantic comedies and youth-oriented vehicles he usually appears in.
“Well, unknown to some, action is where I really want to make a mark so this is a dream-come-true actually. I worked hard to prepare for my character in the movie. For one, my physique. I did a lot of gym routines to develop abs. It’s vital to look fit especially in doing action scenes.
“Seeing the entire film, I’m proud of its turn-out. It’s worth all my sacrifice. I just hope avid theatre buffs will support it. Who knows, it will pave the way for the comeback of the action genre, right?” ends AJ.
★★★★★
After admitting that he is officially courting Janine Gutierrez, Kapamilya star Rayver Cruz received flaks from bashers, something that he doesn’t really mind.
“It’s just fine,” he avers. “I’m already used to it. I’m not affected at all considering the long years I’ve been in the ‘biz. It’s simply a matter of opinion anyway.”
Asked what he likes best in Janine, the appealing he says, “She has lots of endearing qualities actually. For one, she’s simple, kind, fun to be with and down-to-earth. She will not make you feel that she’s a celebrity.”
Does he think he has a chance to get her sweet yes?
“Hopefully. As of now, we’re okay—we’re getting closer each day. We go out and enjoy each other’s company. Let’s see how things will turn out eventually,” states Rayver.
