At thirteen years old, many say that Jillian Ward is ready to replace Barbie Forteza as GMA’s Tween Queen. To this, the appealing lass could only respond feeling grateful.
“Really? Well, thank you to those who think that way. I’m happy and grateful for the moniker. But in all honesty, even without that title, I’m okay because I know I’m giving my best in my showbiz career. That title if ever is just a bonus. At least, I’m a step higher already from being a child star!”
Jillian, who used to be one of the Kapuso’s premiere child stars is now adjusting to teen roles.
“Like in my latest show My Special Tatay starring Ken Chan. I play the role of a ‘kikay’ teenager. It’s the first time that I’m doing this.”
Expectedly, she’s adjusting to this new phase in her career.
“I think the character of Odette Villaroman is sixteen years old in the story. I admit there’s difficulty on my part acting like a full-blown teenager in the soap. Apart from the age factor, it’s the first time that I’ll act out a ‘kikay’ part. I’m used to portraying child roles that’s why I’m challenged this time with my participation in My Special Tatay.
“Even in my manner of dressing, there’s a difference now. Before, I’m just in shorts and shirts when I tape for a soap. That simple. But now that I’m already a teenager, I have to look my age. I’m now wearing skirts and wardrobe with K-Pop influence.”
Apart from her considerable acting skills, Jillian is also gifted with a lovely singing voice. This she is able to exhibit on the road and mall shows.
“I want to hone my singing talent further. It’s just that at this point, most of the projects given to me are geared towards acting. But I want to express my singing ability to the public. Maybe in the near future.”
She excitedly shares that she adores Paul McCartney of The Beatles.
“He’s seventy-six now but his voice still sounds great. Call me old school but he’s my crush.”
What’s good about the cute gal is that despite her hectic showbiz career, she still devotes time to her studies.
“It’s very important to me. I’m home-schooled and is currently in seventh grade. Every quarter I take an examination in the main school (Westfields International School) and I’m proud to say that I have high grades. I’m really focused on my studies and perfectly balances it with my acting career,” ends Jillian.
* * *
Asked why instead of doing Asintado then where she should’ve played Shaina Magdayao’s character she chose a much lighter material in Playhouse, Angelica Panganiban explains: “I came from an emotionally draining soap which was Pangako Sa ‘Yo. As everyone knows, my character there always gets mad at Kathryn (Bernardo), Daniel (Padilla) and Jodi (Sta. Maria). Because of this, I wanted my next project to be different. I longed for something which is light in nature which would serve as a balancing act.”
She added that it’s good that Playhouse was pitched into her because she finds the material a perfect respite from all the heavy dramatic stuff people are used to see her portray.
“At least, it’s a breath of fresh air, right? Playhouse offered something new so I accepted it right away.”
How is it working with Zanjoe Marudo?
“Actually, it’s not the first time that we’re working in one project. We’ve done a few films before where we are not screen partners but what’s exciting is that this time, we’re paired together on a television program. It’s a new experience. I’m sure the viewers will like our chemistry on screen.”
Playhouse is on the daytime block. Didn’t she feel demoted considering that her past starrers were aired on prime time?
“That’s no issue on that. When it was presented to me, it was really pegged on daytime. I readily agreed because that timeslot is family-oriented. As I’ve said, it’s something new to me, the reason why it excites me to the hilt,” Angelica states.
