Despite the inevitable intrigues and controversies that come with fame, Gillian Vicencio remains unfazed, understanding that all publicity, whether positive or negative, contributes to her journey in the limelight.
Gillian ended 2023 facing challenges head-on, finding solace in the support of her family and close friends, both in and out of showbiz.
This 2024, Gillian continues to shine. In just two months into the year, Gillian feels incredibly thankful and blessed for the projects she’s received. Notably, her successful performance in the theater play Kumprontasyon at Peta Theater, which ran from Jan. 18 to 21. It was directed by Melvin Lee.
She started her theater journey in 2023, and the positive reception from regular viewers and students led to more opportunities. She participated in the three-part play alongside theater actors, including Romnick Sarmenta, her co-star in 2good to Be True.
Another blessing came as she was welcomed as one of the Beautederm Babies by Rhea Anicoche Tan, the CEO and Founder of the renowned beauty brand. Gillian expresses her joy, saying, “It’s my first endorsement, and it’s gratifying that, even as a newcomer, Mommy Rhea trusted me. A-listers are part of Beautederm’s roster of influencers/artists/ambassadors, and I’m happy to be included.”
Additionally, Gillian is part of the cast for the Filipino adaptation of What’s Wrong with Secretary Kim, starring Kim Chiu and Paulo Avelino, produced by Dreamscape and VIU. The series has generated excitement, especially among Korean drama enthusiasts.
She is also working on an upcoming movie, a slasher/massacre film called Talahib alongside Kristoff Garcia and Joem Bascon. The film is directed by Alvin Yapan under FEAST Foundation. Gillian shares her excitement, especially since the director has a track record of being recognized in various award-giving bodies.
Gillian started her career in showbiz doing commercials, VTRs, and auditions. She realized her showbiz dream when she joined Eerie, a horror film starring Bea Alonzo and Charo Santos Concio. She portrayed Erika Sayco, the haunting schoolgirl central to the movie’s plot.
“During the making, I wasn’t included in promos, guestings, and other things to maintain the element of fear in the film. They chose a newcomer for the role,” she said.
Soon after, another horror film followed Hellcome Home with Dennis Trillo, Alyssa Muhlach, Raymond Bagatsing, and Beauty Gonzalez.
Gillian was also launched alongside Belle Mariano, Anthony Jennings, Jeremiah Lisbo, JC Alcantara, and Kyle Echarri as a Starmagic artist in 2019. Later, she became one of the original talents under Rise Artists Studio managed by Mico del Rosario under Star Creatives.
In 2020, the winds of change swept through due to challenges faced by ABS-CBN, including the pandemic. Gillian recalls, “I was scared, considering we had just signed contracts. But management assured us they wouldn’t abandon us. We had digital shows daily, where we honed our hosting skills and introduced ourselves.
Her biggest break came with Four Sisters Before the Wedding where she starred alongside Alexa Ilacad, Charlie Dizon, and Belle Mariano. She played Alex, the younger version of Angel Locsin’s character.
“I’m just glad that with all the trials in my showbiz life, the management still trusts me and the fans still support me. And I think that’s all that matters,” said Gillian.