Jake can do more

No one can stop Jake Cuenca from pursuing what he likes whether it is for his professional growth or personal bliss. Certainly, you still remember those days when the ABS-CBN actor admitted that he has a crush on Erich Gonzales.

So what happened after that? Did he court her? Did Erich turn him down?

Jake has a valid reason for deciding against courting the young actress. In a tone that echoed a gentleman’s persona, the actor gave a clear, honest and an acceptable explanation when he returned on the hot seat of Tonight with Boy Abunda (TWBA). He said that it became his top priority to be a good leading man even while he’s the villain, referring to the period of working with Erich in the drama series The Blood Sisters.

“I really had a crush on her while we were taping for Blood Sisters. Kung gustong-gusto ko, hindi naman ako mapipigilan. But at that time naging importante na kahit kontrabida ako ay maging mabuting leading man sa kanya,” said Jake.

He further shared that it’s been quite a long time since he last had a romantic affair with somebody from the entertainment circle. “I’ve realized (that) I don’t want to mix business with pleasure. I like to keep it that way.”

What remains the same is Jake’s intense passion for acting. His debut theatrical acting performance in Lungs has been earning rave reviews from critics and Jake is thankful for the good words. He described Lungs as a relatable piece as it is something that all millennials are going through right now. By the way, Lungs is a 90-minute dialogue stage play featuring only two people on stage and presents a story about relationships and beliefs.

On TV, Jake is pitting acting talents against veterans and young actors as one of the male leads in Precious Hearts Romances Presents: Los Bastardos. Televiewers of the sexy drama series see him as Isagani, the eldest son of Ronaldo Valdez’s character, who is destined to fight with his brothers for power and recognition in their family. 

“I’m just happy to be given the opportunity to do different things. And I’m just thankful they believe in me that I can carry something like this.”

Even stage roles that require him to do full nudity do not worry Jake at all. He is too willing to portray them without malice. It instantly came to mind Daniel Radcliffe, who did a naked stage role in the revival of Peter Shaffer’s 1973 play Equus.

So, what more can Jake do? Let’s wait and see.