By Jasper Valdez
Viva’s newest series, Seducing Drake Palma, the much-anticipated book-to-screen adaptation, is a major turning point for rising stars Rabin Angeles and Angela Muji, who now find themselves headlining a project with built-in fan expectations.
At the series’ grand media conference held at Viva Café, both actors admitted they were overwhelmed when cast in the lead roles, especially since the show is based on Ariesa Jane Domingo’s bestselling Wattpad novel.
Angela, who plays Alys Zyril Perez, said the response from fans took her by surprise.
“I’m used to playing minor characters,” she said. “Kaya laking tuwa po talaga at parang nabunutan ng tinik nung nalaman ko na masaya naman po majority na ako po si Alys.”
The young actress shared that she had sleepless nights leading up to the announcement, worried about how viewers would react to her first major role.
Now that the show is gearing up for release, she says she’s learned to channel her nerves into focus and appreciation.
“Ini-enjoy ko na lang po kung ano yung nasa harapan ko ngayon,” Angela said.
“Nakaka-relate po talaga ako kay Alys… grabe po kasi ako magmahal, parang baliw na baliw talaga.”
For Rabin, playing the titular Drake Palma felt like a dream opportunity that came earlier than expected.
“This is such a big role so I had to make big preparations, too,” he said. “Biglang dumating, pero hindi ko po ito pinapalampas. Talagang pinag-aralan ko po.”
Despite the pressure, Rabin stays grounded and focused, saying he tries not to let fame get to his head.
“Ayoko po lumaki ulo ko… kasi malayo pa po,” he added.
Director Crisanto Aquino said the chemistry between the two leads made his job easier.
“When they look at each other… it’s very, very natural,” Aquino shared. “It’s effortless.”
Author Ariesa, who was consulted during the adaptation process, said she was moved by the cast’s commitment to the characters and appreciated being part of the collaboration.
“They’re very open with the notes,” Ariesa said. “So I appreciate the actors.”
