McCoy de Leon may not be the main antagonist in the trending series “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,” as he’s also a puppet of more prominent villains, but he surely shines when it comes to his schemes and his brand of arrogance.
Every compelling story needs a ‘kontrabida,’ but some actors excel so well that sometimes viewers struggle to distinguish between their on-screen persona and reality. McCoy, for instance, has created a character, David, that everyone loves to hate. He’s become so good at being bad – and that’s a considerable feat of acting.
So before you get too carried away, here’s a gallery of behind-the-scenes photos from the set of “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo” that proves McCoy is only acting and has mastered the art of playing the villain. His portrayal of the bad guy might stir up strong emotions and frustration, but that’s a testament to his skill and commitment. The more he makes you dislike his character, the more effectively he’s bringing it to life.
Check out the album to see just how hard McCoy works to make his performance truly convincing.
The images showcase McCoy’s commitment to immersing himself in his character. You’ll see him meticulously going over the script, and even rehearsing lines alone to ensure David's persona is knitted to his own flesh. Some photos highlight his intense focus, where he appears to be in deep conversation with himself, perfecting David's mannerisms and delivery until the character becomes second nature.
In other shots, he’s seen sharing scenes with seasoned actress Irma Adlawan, who portrays the shrewd Olga/Beng. These moments are a masterclass in acting, illustrating McCoy’s ability to hold his own and spar with experienced actors, reflecting his skill and dedication.
The gallery also features McCoy collaborating closely with the show's lead actor and director, Coco Martin, who plays his on-screen rival, Tanggol. One photo reveals how both actors worked together to infuse their recent encounter at Pablo (Elijah Canlas)’s wake with intense emotion and grit.
After each take, McCoy is seen reviewing the footage with Direk Coco, ensuring every detail is perfectly executed. Although they play enemies on screen, their behind-the-scenes interactions reveal a mentor-student dynamic, with Coco guiding McCoy like a younger brother.
These photos offer a behind-the-scenes look at McCoy’s dedication, making it clear that his villainous role is a product of effort and genuine talent.
Catch his portrayal of David in “FPJ’s Batang Quiapo,” weeknights, on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, TV5, and A2Z.
*Photos credit to McCoy de Leon IG