Veteran actor Tirso Cruz III has gone through a painful time when his son, TJ, succumbed to cancer in November 2018. Since then, he started relieving TJ’s memories via Instagram posts. “Ang laki ng nawala,” he admits. But, even the heartbreaking days of mourning strengthened Tirso’s faith and spirituality.
WATCH ON TWBA: Tirso talks about his son TJ Cruz
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.
In an interview on Magandang Buhay, Tirso revealed how he coped with his unspeakable loss.
WATCH on MB: Tirso Cruz III recalls how his family became closer after his son TJ passed away
Tirso wowed audiences with his impressive acting chops in his nearly 50 years in showbiz. Tirso can be seen Monday to Friday in the rerun of the 2017 hit drama series Wildflower as Governor Julio Ardiente. 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.
Tirso said in the Magandang Buhay interview that 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.
Tirso’s daughter Djanin, who also appeared in the Magandang Buhay interview, 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.
Check out these endearing and heartwarming photos of Tirso with his late beloved son TJ in this gallery.
Catch Tirso in the continuing reairing of Wildflower, weeknights on Primetime Bida.