Rising star JC Alcantara treads a familiar ground as he plays a narrative close to his heart – his own life story, full of dreams and obstacles, chronicled in the next episode of Maalaala Mo Kaya.
JC considers acting as a childhood dream. However, the ticket to showbiz was too elusive he had to surpass major debacles before making it this far. But, as seen in the episode’s trailer, he didn’t let any challenge wane his passion even if he’s the only one left hanging on to his dreams.
He also experienced discrimination en route to stardom. When he finally made it, he was surprised to know that some people will only love you in good times.
‘Pag artista ka tapos marami kang blessings na natatanggap, ‘yung mga taong may ayaw sa’yo, kusa na silang lumalapit sa’yo, kakausapin ka nila kasi kilala ka na. Maraming nakaka-relate dito, eh,” he said.
Apart from this sad reality of life, JC believes his journey will impart lessons about pressing on despite the tests of faith. You may take a rest but never keep your eye off the goal. “Nagsimula ako sa walang-wala. Sumuko ako, nawalan din ako ng pag-asa. Akala ko hindi ko na makakamit itong mga pangarap ko pero ‘yun’ yung panahon na mas ginusto ko ‘yung gusto ko. Kasi pangarap ko na mailayo ‘yung pamilya ko sa kahirapan,” he added.
Baring the still unknown chapters of his life, JC had to replay every scene he could remember – even the most painful ones like that heartbreaking moment with his uncle which he didn’t elaborate on. It’s something to watch out for in the episode!
“Sobrang bigat ng pinagdaanan ko nun – takot, kumbaga lahat nando’n na. Nahirapan akong balikan kasi grabe ‘yung feeling na makita ulit ‘yung karanasan ko dati, sobrang sakit na ganu’n.”
But he’s determined to share his journey, even if it hurts, knowing he can inspire a lot of dreamers like him. That’s why he didn’t hesitate from pitching his own life story to MMK matriarch Charo Santos-Concio when asked for his dream project.
“Sabi ko,’Ma’am Charo, pwede po ba akong mag-MMK?’ Sabi niya, ‘sige.’ Grabe pala ang bilis kausap ni Ma’am Charo. Nagulat ako kasi sinabi ko lang tapos game na game siya agad-agad. After no’n, may schedule na agad tapos in-interview na ako pati family ko,” he recalled.
The success of the digital series “Hello, Stranger” is just the beginning of a brighter career for the newcomer. Unlike the BL (Boys Love) show taped via Zoom, JC experienced taping under a lock-in bubble for MMK. He said it was a fun experience. The 12-hour working limit makes taping less daunting and more easy flowing.
JC is joined by Lara Quigaman, Marco Alcaraz, Victor Silayan, Maru Delgado, and Glenn Vargas in the episode. Before each take, the cast will approach him to ask questions about the people in his life, thus helping everyone deliver authentic portrayals.
For JC, a support system is vital in keeping the sanity especially in these trying times, which is why he’s learned to make an effort to reach out to his loved ones and even fans. The previous year opened a lot of unexpected blessings for him, giving him and his family a lot of reasons to welcome the New Year with a festive celebration at home.
Get to know more of this rising star by watching him portray his own life story in MMK on January 9.