In 2020, young actress Kate Valdez made headlines with her role in Anak ni Waray vs. Anak ni Biday. Although she enjoyed the experience and working with the cast on the show, she faced challenges with her acting because of the heavy emotions she portrayed on the small screen.
This month, Kate returns to acting with a different approach with Unica Hija. Unlike her previous projects, the actress undergoes an experimental role because, for the first time, she will play two characters in the series. But Unica Hija is more than the run-of-the-mill drama series about two identical characters raised in opposing conditions as it also adds sci-fi elements.
Unica Hija explores the potential of cloning technology as Kate brings life to Bianca at Hope.
“Si Bianca, the original one, siya ‘yung pinagkunan ng DNA para kay Hope which is ‘yung clone. Si Bianca ay anak ng isang scientist,” Kate shared.
Although the concept of actors playing dual roles in a series isn’t foreign, it’s Kate’s first time to experience such a feat. During an online press conference, she admitted that it was challenging for her to play two different characters who have opposite personalities.
“I’m not going to lie, challenging siya, may kahirapan din. I guess nagkaroon lang ng difference because si Bianca ay laki sa yaman, ‘yung pamumuhay niya, ibang-ibang sa pamumuhay ni Hope,” the Kapuso actress said. Meanwhile, Hope will grow up in a family with financial struggles.
Kate added that Unica Hija diverts from her usual kontrabida roles from other series. This time, she’s the oppressed character, making it a significant adjustment from her approach as an actress.
On the other hand, Kate explained that playing Hope didn’t require her to act as a robot because the character is a clone—still human.
“‘Di naman gano’n kateknikal ang ginawa kong preparation kasi hindi naman siya robot, tao pa rin s’ya. Nakakaramdam siya ng lahat ng emotions ng tao,” she said.
Speaking of firsts, Unica Hija also marks the first teleserye team-up between Kate and Kelvin Miranda (The Lost Recipe, Stories from the Heart: Loving Miss Bridgette).
Joining the pair are Alfred Vargas and Katrina Halili, who will play the roles of Christian and Diane, respectively, Bianca’s parents. The series will also serve as Alfred’s comeback to showbiz as his role is a special participation.
As for Katrina, who’s known for her kontrabida characters but has shown she can efficiently portray the role of a nurturing mother in Prima Donnas, she’s thankful that the network saw that side of her and gave her a similar role in Unica Hija.
Meanwhile, playing Hope’s parents are Biboy Ramirez and Maricar De Mesa. Biboy’s character has treated Hope like his own child since he adopted her as a baby. Unfortunately, Hope will experience abuse from his wife and biological child.
Other cast members include Sparkle talents Faith Da Silva, Athena Madrid, and Jennie Gabriel. Also joining them is former child actor Jemwell Ventenilla.
Unica Hija premieres today on GMA Afternoon Prime.