Sarah Lahbati is Kokak

MANILA, Philippines - This month, Starstruck 5 female winner Sarah Lahbati topbills the drama series, Kokak, on GMA-7. Her much-awaited break brings mixed feelings of excitement and a bit of anxiety because of her fear of frogs. Ironically, playing the lead role in the new series means she will be working with frogs.

Kokak is based on the popular comic series created by Ruben Marcelino about a frog who transforms into a beautiful woman. A movie adaptation starred by Rachel Lobangco and Gabby Concepcion became a hit in 1989.

Sarah shared how she broke the good news to her mom. “Sabi ko, ‘Ma, tinanggal na ako sa Time Of My Life. Wala na akong show...” And when her mom asked why, she happily told her that she is going to play the lead in a new program.

Sarah also expressed excitement at her first team-up with TJ Trinidad. “Mayroon ding nerbyos kasi siyempre hindi kami magkakilala. Pero, thankful ako that we had workshops na nakatulong para mas mag-loosen up kami.”

Aside from acting workshops under the supervision of Mark Espinosa, Sarah also followed a strict diet to prepare for her role, which she describes as a little sexy. When she has time, she also tries to squeeze Jiu Jitsu and mixed martial arts into her schedule.

Playing the lead is a big challenge for Sarah. “But the biggest challenge would be that I’ll be showing more skin than the usual,” she said.

Also in Kokak are JC Tiuseco (portraying Sarah’s other leading man), Jessa Zaragoza, Gary Estrada, Caridad Sanchez, Deborah Sun, Vaness Del Moral, Frencheska Farr and Ervic Vijandre.

Directed by Ricky Davao, Kokak will air on GMA 7’s Afternoon Prime.