Despite being celebrated as this generation’s “Comedy Queen” by fans and colleagues, comedienne Melai Cantiveros has expressed reservations about embracing the title.
At a recent media conference for her upcoming Bisaya-language talk show, Kuan on One, Melai conveyed her gratitude for the recognition while also acknowledging the significant contributions of her predecessors in the comedy industry.
“Thank you so much sa mga nagsasabi. I love you all pero nahihiya ako sa nagsasabi. Sobra akong hiya sa sinabi na ganyan kasi siyempre ‘di ko naman masabi na ano,” said Melai.
The Magandang Buhay host further emphasized her respect for the legendary comediennes who paved the way for her success.
“Sobra akong happy eh. Hindi ako pwedeng hindi mahappy kasi para ka namang sino. Pero para sa akin siyempre ang dami ko pang dadaanan na mga butas bago ko pa makamit yung mga ganyan,” she added.
The comedy actress also addressed the online clamor for her to star in a remake of the popular 2003 comedy film “Ang Tanging Ina” which starred Ai-ai de las Alas. While she expressed her willingness to take on the project if given the opportunity, she also emphasized her respect for the original cast and the legacy of the film.
“Pero siyempre hindi natin pwede i-bypass si Ms. Ai Ai De las Alas kasi siya talaga ang ating ‘queen of comedy’ so hindi natin pwede i-bypass kasi siya talaga madaming napatunayan na kuan talaga,” continued Melai.
She also mentioned other comedy icons like Pokwang and Eugene Domingo, acknowledging their significant contributions to the industry.
With a touch of humor, Melai even proposed a title for herself if she were to star in her own comedy project.
“Kuan-ang Ina?. Char char lang ano. Char char lang, Kuanizens,” she stated.