Coping with the loss of a loved one can be the hardest thing that anyone can face. The grief that we endure is without doubt, an excruciating experience, but a natural reaction to loss. Going through the process may sometimes lead to prolonged periods of sadness or even depression. It may take time to adjust and embrace the reality of such unfortunate circumstances. However, with strength and faith, one can overcome such ordeals. Today, Magadang Buhay hosts Karla Estrada, Jolina Magdangal and Melai Cantiveros welcomed Tirso Cruz III who shared how he coped with the loss of a family member.
Tirso has wowed audiences with his impressive acting chops in his nearly 50 years in showbiz. Tirso can be seen Monday to Friday in the hit drama series The General’s Daughter as Heneral Santiago Guerrero. But Tirso is not only known for his portrayal of kontrabida roles because back in 1970s he was actually paired up with the legendary Nora Aunor, hence the love team ‘Guy and Pip’ was formed. He recalled how passionate and dedicated their fans were back then, even if social media didn’t exist at that time. “They took it personally. Dun mo makikita ‘yung intensity ng pagmamahal at paghahanga nila sa artista,” he stated.
The veteran actor also proudly announced that he and his wife Lynn have been together for 38 years. “38 years na niya akong pinagtiyatiyagaan,” he said jokingly.
The showbiz icon spoke about his loving children, and tackled on his son Bodie’s transition to becoming a pastor. Tirso said that it was during a play when his son had a calling and from there, he knew he wanted to be a pastor. “I was really amazed and I was surprised na ganun na siya ka-intense. Ganun na kaliwanag sa kanya ang preaching at mga messages from the Bible,” he said proudly.
His daughter Djanin joined him on the set and a talked about how strict her father was, especially during her younger years. She narrated that he would get mad at her when he would find some wounds or scars on her legs. On the other hand, she said that her father also has a sweet side, and revealed that he even massages her feet. In spite of him keeping a tight guard on her, she pointed out that she is a certified daddy’s girl. Her father added that he is very proud of the person that she has become and admires her for her work ethics.
Tirso also looked back and remembered his son TJ, who passed away due to cancer last year. He couldn’t help but become emotional when he recalled the moments when TJ was about to go. The versatile actor recounted that there were instances that his daughter didn’t want to see her brother suffer and only wanted remember his best moments when he was alive. He continued by saying that he can only do so much and he just accepted the feeling of loss, “The pain never goes away. You guys have to learn how to deal with it.” With TJ’s death, the family had to stay strong, especially Bodie since he was the most spiritual one in the family.
Djanin also recalled some fond memories of her brother and said that she will miss the times when he would call her ‘Bachi’, because she was a bit on the heavier side back then. “Siya lang ‘yung pwedeng tumawag sa akin nun,” she said smiling. Djanin and her father also gave a touching duet, and impressed the crowd with their “Kahit Maputi Na Ang Buhok Ko” performance.