Darren Espanto is proving himself to be a multitalented artist, currently juggling music and acting. In the DonBelle-starrer “Can’t Buy Me Love” on primetime, he’s able to skilfully portray the emotions and nuances of young business scion Stephen Tanhueco.
While he surely appreciates the positive feedback on his enhanced acting abilities, Darren finds greater joy in the unscripted off-cam moments with his co-actors. Check out this gallery of behind-the-scenes photos that captured his closeness with his fellow cast members on the set of “Can’t Buy Me Love!”
In a past episode of Kapamilya Chat, Darren mentioned that Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano themselves were among those who pushed him to accept the role of Stephen. We bet that now he no longer feels the hesitation he once did, especially with his friendship with DonBelle making it more comfortable to film scenes, particularly Belle, given his character’s unrequited affection for her as Caroline.
While they often argue on screen, with his character portrayed as temperamental and obsessive, once the cameras stop rolling, Darren transitions back to sharing cute ‘kulit’ moments with Belle – as seen in the photos.
He triggered viewers’ ire in a recent episode where he subtly mocked Bingo (Donny) for using a ‘kuliglig’ (improvised motor vehicle) while he owns an expensive car. You’ll know it was just purely acting when you see that photo of him enjoying trying to ride the ‘kuliglig’ in real life.
Apart from Donny and Belle, he also shares great camaraderie with the other cast members like Chie Filomeno, who portrays Belle’s loyal best friend, Jersey, in the series. One photo shows the two of them taking a selfie in their Chinese New Year’s Eve party OOTDs.
Even late-night tapings become more bearable and enjoyable when you have a good rapport with your teammates - the snaps in this gallery will serve as proof.
When it comes to what he gains from the series, apart from the skills and experience, it undoubtedly includes his friendship with the cast members.
Catch Darren in “Can’t Buy Me Love,” airing weeknights, on Kapamilya Channel, Kapamilya Online Live, TV5, and A2Z.