Upcoming GMA actor Jeric Gonzales feels he’s ready for the big league. He’s recently had the chance to work with acting legend Nora Aunor in the indie film Hustisya, where he earned rave reviews for his performance. He tells tabloid! what his plans are as he takes on more mature roles.
Q: You received rave reviews for your performance in Hustisya. How do you feel about that?
A: It feels great, of course. First of all, I am very happy to have been given the opportunity to work with an artist like Nora Aunor this early in my career. Working with her was a very memorable and enriching experience. I learned a lot; it was like going to an acting school and learning from one of the best in the world. Her acting has been recognised in prestigious film festivals abroad, and of course she is widely recognised here in the Philippines. I took pointers, and she was very generous in sharing tips. That is why I think I turned out a good performance. I am very happy with the feedback. I feel like I can take on more challenging roles in the future.
Q: Including more mature, sexy roles?
A: Yes. I have thought about that, and I think I am ready for it. Unfortunately, in this business, showing some skin gets you noticed faster, and remembered more (laughs). Hopefully, with the positive reviews along with my new physique, I hope I will really get more projects in the future.
Q: Are you satisfied with how your career is going after winning the Protégé (a celebrity search reality show GMA organised in 2012)?
A: Yes, I am happy. The network has a plan for me, and I know my time will come. I’m working on a YouTube project as well for international release. The concept is about me singing my version of popular female artists. It’s an exciting project, and hopefully it will be well received. I hope it will also be my ticket for international projects — whether in singing, acting or modelling.
Q: Is it true that you received a “fat memo” from network executives before?
A: It was a gentle reminder. That actually led me to working on my physique through a strict diet and exercise regimen. My handlers have the best of intentions for me, so I took it positively, and now it has given me great results. I feel great, I am more confident now, and in fact I will be participating in the Cosmo Bachelor Bash. I know a lot of male artists whose careers shot up after exposure in the runway show.