Showbiz newbie Jess Martinez has already built a substantial following on TikTok, with over 500,000 followers. Though she could have easily stayed in the comfortable, algorithm-driven world of social media influencing, she is making a refreshing gamble that could redefine her career.
“Before entering showbiz, I was a social media influencer, more into fashion and lifestyle. My main platform is TikTok, and through my videos, I get to express who I really am, how I dress up, and a glimpse of my family,” Jess, who is studying at Southville International School and taking up Business Management, said.
At a time when many seasoned stars are shifting toward influencer platforms, Jess explained that her reason for changing direction sets her apart.
“What I like about showbiz is that I get to express my emotions…I’m referring to acting. I get to showcase the many different sides of my personality, and I feel more motivated,” she told Manila Standard Entertainment in an interview. “I’m not here for fame, I’m here to showcase my talent and hone my craft at the same time.”
She was formally introduced by Artist Circle during an intimate press gathering attended by select members of the media and entertainment blogging community. In the junket, she spoke about what pushed her to take on this new chapter and why she’s pursuing a career in acting.
“Unlike being a social media influencer, which is routine-based—you’re doing the same thing over and over—in showbiz, you get to portray different characters, so I’m able to hone my skills,” she explained.
Initially, she joined an acting workshop out of curiosity. “When I joined the workshop, it was really just out of curiosity at first,” she admitted. But something clicked. “That’s when I felt like, ‘Oh, this is something I’ve been looking for in my life’—something new and something where I could express myself.”
Jess was born in Cotabato City, but she grew up in Davao after her family moved in when she was in second grade. Unlike many stars who come from industry families, Jess has no showbiz connections, her family is in business. Yet, her childhood love for teleseryes planted a dream.
“My family loves watching teleseryes. So, I told myself that I want to become a star one day. I want to be seen on television and to express my emotions and craft,” she said.
Now, with her role in GMA’s upcoming series Sanggang Dikit alongside Dennis Trillo and Jennilyn Mercado, she’s proving that her ambition to work with icons like Heart Evangelista and Marian Rivera is not far from being realized.
