AFTER building a name in the modeling world, newbie Gil Cuerva is keen to leave a mark in the local entertainment scene.
The 21-year-old was recently introduced as the new leading man of Jennylyn Mercado in the local adaptation of the hit Korean series "My Love from the Star".
Cuerva will breathe life to the character of Matteo Domingo, a highly intelligent, aloof, and often distant extra-terrestrial being forced to live his days on Earth. He will eventually meet Steffi Chavez, played by Mercado, a popular local actress who is senseless and careless at time.
The two characters initially won't get along but will later on discover that they have feelings for each other.
Cuerva recalled that he was back in the Philippines for two weeks to process his work papers for Thailand when the opportunity came knocking his door.
During this time, he already worked with luxury brands like Tom Ford and Balenciaga in Hong Kong when few people he knows convinced him to audition for the role, which he eventually bagged.
He had to sacrifice his modeling career abroad and give local showbiz a try.
"Nanghihinayang in a way that more than the actual modeling, it's the opportunity to travel the world. I was in Hong Kong for two months and I could be in Thailand for three months. So, just being able to broaden your horizon and experience other culture… that's what I have to sacrifice. But as I have mentioned, it's completely worth it and I wouldn't have it any other way. I'm just thankful to be here," the model said during the grand press launch of the series.
Cuerva added that more than the fame and popularity, he is in the business to prove that he can do other things besides modeling.
He wants to be known not only by his looks, but also with his talents.
"To be very honest, it's not something that I think of (stardom). Ang nasa isip ko lang is the output. I don't want to have a reputation is sikat ka, gwapo ka pero ang panget mong umarte. Yan yung gusto kong iwasan. I want to be good in acting para naman maganda din naman," he said.
The Filipino-Spanish model added that he's ready for the bashing as the role was initially pegged for Alden Richards.
Cuerva said he understands the comparison between them, but stressed that he is here to prove that he could also do something in front of the camera.
"Very sacred kasi yung 'My Love from the Star' sa mga fans. They have someone in mind who they want to become Mateo. When it didn't happen, na-disappoint sila and na-gets ko naman. Fans will be fans. I understand that you can't please everybody," he added.
Cuerva said he's just grateful to have been given this opportunity and promises not to disappoint the viewers.
"I'm just happy to be here. I'm just focused on the work. I'm very thankful na napunta sa akin yung role. I've learned to compose myself more and to be more mature," he ended.
"My Love from the Star" will air starting Monday, May 29, after "Mulawin vs Ravena" on GMA Telebebad. (VoxPop Philippines)
