It’s as if Rico Yan’s charisma was reborn when we met Alfy Yan – the trending social media boy because of his uncanny resemblance to his late uncle – for the first time.
Talking to Manila Standard Entertainment, he said that growing up, he was well aware of the showbiz legacy his family carried.
The 20-year-old athlete, Rico Yan’s nephew through his mother, Geraldine Yan-Tueres, has signed with Viva Artists Agency (VAA), taking his first step in continuing what his late uncle had started.
Alfy shared how his family has been fully supportive of his decision to enter the entertainment industry.
“I always hear so much about my uncle, the movies he did, everything he achieved. It’s cool to have something like that in our family,” he said, noting that among his late uncle’s works, Got 2 Believe stands out as his personal favorite.
Alfy admitted that he didn’t grasp the full extent of the former matinee idol’s impact until later in life.
“It’s shocking that even now, people still talk about him. I didn’t realize how big his influence was. I guess there’s some pressure, but it’s also heartwarming to see the support continuing to this day,” he added.
Joining showbiz inevitably means opening up one’s life to public scrutiny, but Alfy is ready for the challenges.
“I think I’m prepared for it. It’s all about mindset and how I handle comments,” he said. He is also focused on finding his footing in the industry. “I’m just trying to get a feel for how it is. Like my uncle, I’m starting with commercials while studying. It’s about testing the waters.”
Alfy’s entry into showbiz was partly guided by Claudine Barretto, Rico’s former girlfriend and long-time screen partner.
During a gathering with Rico’s family, Claudine suggested the idea to Alfy. Initially hesitant, Alfy later warmed up to the thought of doing commercials and brand ambassador work. Claudine introduced him to Viva’s Vic del Rosario, leading to his signing with the agency.
Recalling her conversation with Alfy, Claudine said, “I asked him, ‘Aside from baseball, what are you into? Do you want to join showbiz?’ He wasn’t fully into it at first, but things happened quickly after that.”
For Claudine, Alfy’s foray into showbiz feels like a continuation of Rico’s journey. She described the enthusiasm from Rico’s fans and family, saying, “Many people still feel Rico’s absence. When Alfy decided to join, it was as if the fans, including Rico’s grandmother, found renewed hope. I feel like Alfy is the only one who can continue what Rico started.”