Senior actress Connie Reyes, known for her extensive career in Philippine television, stars in Shining Inheritance, a local adaptation of the popular K-drama Brilliant Legacy. The series premieres today on GMA Afternoon Prime.
Talking to Manila Standard Entertainment during the program’s media conference on Aug. 30, Reyes discussed her role as Aurea De La Costa, a character with dementia.
“The character is particularly meaningful to me as a grandmother. The challenge of portraying dementia is something I’m excited about,” Reyes said.
The actress, who started her showbiz career in May 1974, looks back on her 50 years in the industry.
“My first drama was on GMA in 1981, right after the birth of my second child. Returning to an afternoon slot feels like a welcome change,” she added.
Asked if returning to the afternoon timeslot feels like coming home, Reyes said, “It’s wonderful to revisit the afternoon slot. Most of my followers are housewives and their children. Working with millennials and Gen Z allows me to expand my audience, especially as viewership trends younger.”
Reyes also shared her thoughts on working with younger actors. “Throughout the years, I’ve worked with younger co-stars, which helps me connect with new supporters. I see it as my purpose to share my talent with these age groups.”
When asked about her most significant moment in her 50-year career, Reyes said, “It’s hard to pinpoint one moment. My greatest achievement is that I’m still here, able to share my talent at 71. I feel blessed and grateful.”
Shining Inheritance features Kyline Alcantara as Joanna De La Costa, Kate Valdez as Inna Villarazon, Paul Salas as Francis Abrigo, and Michael Sager as Euan De La Costa. The drama, directed by Jorron Lee Monroy, follows Inna’s struggle to achieve her dream of owning a restaurant amidst family conflicts and a series of unfortunate events.
The series explores themes of love, greed, and familial issues, posing the question of whether Inna’s dreams can survive the complexities of her life.
Adding more depth to the story are some of the country’s most respected artists in film and television including Wendell Ramos as Charlie Abrigo, Glydel Mercado as Lani Vergara-Villarazon, Aubrey Miles as Sonia De La Costa, Gio Alvarez as Edwin Rodriguez.
Also included in the drama are promising stars Dave Bornea as Archie, Jamir Zabarte as Mark, Seth Dela Cruz as Nono Villarazon, Charuth as Cecile Bautista.
Shining Inheritance premieres today at 4:00 p.m. International viewers can also watch the show via GMA Pinoy TV.
