Actor Ruru Madrid admits that he does feel pressure with his new prime-time offering, Black Rider, competing with Coco Martin’s FPJ’s Batang Quiapo in the ratings game.
Acknowledging the existing pressure, he emphasizes a focus beyond competition. Ruru underscores the priority of delivering high-quality entertainment to viewers, highlighting his goal to entertain rather than succumb to competitive pressures.
“For me, more than anything else, my focus is directed on the viewers’ enjoyment. As an actor, my goal is to entertain,” Ruru says.
Looking back at his past encounter with Coco, his show Lolong was recognized for surpassing FPJ Ang Probinsyano before its conclusion. Despite its success, he modestly downplays claims that Lolong was the reason for the latter’s end, attributing it to fortuitous timing in their respective runs.
“Actually, I feel shy whenever people say that Lolong was the reason why FPJ’s Ang Probinsyano ended. They aired for seven years. Perhaps, it was just a case of good timing that when they decided to end their run, it was my show that was their competition.”
Speaking of Coco, the two of them met each other at the meeting called by Sen. Robin Padilla recently to talk about the Eddie Garcia Bill.
“Yes, we saw each other during the event. I approached him, introduced myself, and told him that it was a huge honor on my part to formally meet him. He was very kind as he said that he should be the one to feel honored meeting me and revealed that he watches my shows in GMA. He acknowledged all the efforts I exert in every program I make and encouraged me to just continue,” he states.
* * *
Samantha Lopez has only good words for Love. Die. Repeat female lead Jennylyn Mercado now that their taping is back into full swing. The production had to stop taping in September 2021 because Jen became pregnant with her daughter with Dennis Trillo.
“In my first role as a mother to an adult child, working with Jen is an honor,” she states.
The seasoned actress praises Jen for her kindness, generosity, and dedication to acting, emphasizing her down-to-earth nature despite fame. As their bond grows during filming, Jennylyn affectionately calls her Mommy, and they share a passion for Pilates.
Samantha commends Jennylyn’s remarkable ability to portray emotionally intense scenes effortlessly, expressing admiration for her competence as an actress.
