Kapuso star Ruru Madrid is gearing up for the much-awaited return of ‘Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan’, set to premiere on January 20.
After the resounding success of the series’ first season, crowned as 2022’s most-watched TV show, Ruru admits feeling the pressure to deliver an equally remarkable performance in the second season.
During a recent press conference, Ruru opened up about the challenges of maintaining the show’s high standards.
“‘Yung pressure kasi, hindi naman nawawala in every project na gagawin natin. For me, ‘yun ‘yung gusto ko laging pakiramdam. Hindi pressure sa kumpetisyon or kung ano man, kumbaga, pressure na makagawa ka ng isang programang tatatak sa puso ng sambayanang Pilipino,” he said.
The actor shared that pressure motivates him to strive harder, ensuring he never becomes complacent. “Ayoko rin na makampante ka, hindi mo na pag-iigihan ‘yung mga ginagawa mo. Dapat laging kasama ‘yun sa bawat proyektong gagawin natin,” he added.
For Ruru, Lolong is more than just a television project—it’s a life-changing experience. The role taught him valuable lessons about heroism and humanity.
“Hindi mo kailangan magkaroon ng super powers para maging isa kang bayani. Basta nakakatulong ka sa iyong kapwa, sa iyong pamilya, nakakapagbigay ka ng inspirasyon sa maraming tao, bayani ka na,” Ruru explained. “‘Yun ‘yung dadalhin ko habang buhay sa paggawa nitong programang ‘to.”
The second season of ‘Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan’ promises more gripping drama and action-packed sequences. With new challenges and an expanded cast, the show aims to surpass the success of its first season, making it a must-watch for Filipino audiences.
Catch ‘Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan’ starting January 20, weeknights after ’24 Oras’ on GMA Prime. Global audiences can also enjoy the series via GMA Pinoy TV.
The weight of expectations can be a crushing force, especially when it rests upon the shoulders of a young actor tasked with embodying a beloved character in a highly anticipated television series. For Ruru Madrid, this pressure is palpable as he takes on the titular role in ‘Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan,’ a show poised to capture the imagination of a nation and redefine his career trajectory. The series, with its ambitious scope and focus on a unique narrative centered around a man and his extraordinary bond with a giant crocodile, presents a challenge that is both exhilarating and daunting. Madrid steps into this role knowing that he is not just playing a character, but carrying the hopes of a production team, a network, and an eager audience hungry for a fresh and compelling story.
The concept of ‘Lolong’ itself is inherently ambitious, promising a blend of action, drama, and the fantastical, all woven together with a distinctly Filipino heart. The name ‘Lolong’ carries a resonance, evoking the real-life giant crocodile that once captivated the Philippines and the world. While the series is not a direct biography, it borrows the mystique and fascination surrounding this colossal creature, reimagining it within a fictional narrative that explores themes of nature, humanity, and heroism. For Madrid, this means portraying a character who is not only physically capable but also deeply empathetic, someone who can connect with both human beings and the extraordinary creature at the heart of the story. He must convincingly embody a ‘bayani,’ a hero of the people, someone who rises above adversity and champions the good in the face of overwhelming odds, all while navigating the complex relationship with a creature that is both powerful and vulnerable.
The physical demands of portraying Lolong are undeniably significant. Action sequences are a cornerstone of the series, requiring Madrid to engage in rigorous fight choreography, stunt work, and potentially even underwater scenes. He has visibly dedicated himself to physical transformation, honing his physique to embody the strength and agility expected of a hero capable of interacting with a giant crocodile. Beyond the choreographed action, there’s also the endurance required to sustain the demanding filming schedule, often under challenging conditions. The role demands not only physical prowess but also resilience, pushing Madrid to his limits both on and off screen. He needs to convincingly portray someone who can grapple with physical threats, navigate dangerous environments, and project an aura of strength and capability in the face of adversity.
Beyond the physicality, the emotional and mental investment required for ‘Lolong’ is equally substantial. Madrid is tasked with portraying a character who undergoes a significant journey, likely facing personal struggles, moral dilemmas, and emotional conflicts. He must connect with the audience on a deeper level, making them believe in Lolong’s motivations, empathize with his challenges, and root for his triumphs. This requires a nuanced performance, one that goes beyond just delivering lines and executing actions. Madrid needs to imbue Lolong with depth, vulnerability, and a relatable humanity, even as he interacts with the fantastical element of the crocodile. He must convince viewers that Lolong’s connection with the creature is genuine and emotionally resonant, adding a layer of complexity to the hero narrative.
‘Lolong’ marks a significant step in Ruru Madrid’s career, potentially propelling him into a new echelon of leading men in Philippine television. Having built a solid foundation through previous roles, this series presents a platform for him to showcase his versatility and range as an actor. It is a departure from more conventional romantic or drama-centric roles, placing him squarely in the action-adventure genre with a strong emphasis on character-driven storytelling. The success of ‘Lolong’ could solidify his position as a bankable star, demonstrating his ability to carry a major primetime series and resonate with a broad audience. This role is not just another project; it’s a potential turning point, an opportunity to define his brand and cement his place in the industry.
The anticipation surrounding ‘Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan’ is palpable, generating significant buzz and expectations from both the public and critics. The unique premise, coupled with the network’s investment in production value and promotion, has created a considerable amount of hype. Audiences are eager to see how the series will bring the fantastical element of a giant crocodile to life and how Madrid will embody the heroic figure at its center. Critics, too, will be scrutinizing every aspect of the show, from the narrative and visual effects to the performances and overall execution. This heightened scrutiny adds another layer of pressure on Madrid, knowing that his portrayal will be closely watched and evaluated, potentially shaping public perception of both the series and his own capabilities as an actor.
Despite the immense pressure, the role of Lolong also presents a wealth of opportunities for Ruru Madrid. It is a chance to collaborate with a talented cast and crew, hone his craft in a challenging and demanding environment, and gain invaluable experience in a large-scale production. The series offers a platform for him to reach a wider audience, expand his fanbase, and solidify his reputation as a dedicated and versatile actor. Furthermore, the positive reception of ‘Lolong’ could open doors to even more significant projects in the future, both within television and potentially in film. This role, while demanding, is also a gateway to growth, recognition, and the potential to elevate his career to new heights.
Ruru Madrid has acknowledged the pressure associated with ‘Lolong,’ expressing both excitement and a sense of responsibility in interviews. He has spoken about the rigorous training he has undergone, the dedication he has poured into understanding the character, and his commitment to delivering a performance that will resonate with viewers. His willingness to embrace the challenge and his proactive approach to preparation suggest a maturity and professionalism that bodes well for his handling of the pressure. Rather than being overwhelmed, Madrid appears to be channeling the pressure into motivation, using it as fuel to push himself and deliver his best work. His statements convey a sense of determination and a desire to not just meet expectations, but to exceed them.
The tagline ‘Bayani ng Bayan’ underscores the heroic dimension of the series and the importance of Lolong’s role within the narrative. The concept of a ‘hero of the nation’ carries significant weight in Filipino culture, evoking ideals of courage, selflessness, and service to others. By portraying Lolong, Madrid is not just playing a character in a fantasy series; he is embodying a symbol of heroism that can resonate deeply with the audience. The series has the potential to inspire viewers, offering a positive and uplifting narrative that celebrates Filipino values and the capacity for ordinary individuals to become extraordinary heroes. Madrid’s portrayal of Lolong will be instrumental in shaping this message, making his performance all the more crucial to the series’ overall impact.
In conclusion, Ruru Madrid stands at a pivotal juncture in his career, facing the significant pressure of embodying ‘Lolong: Bayani ng Bayan.’ The role demands physical prowess, emotional depth, and the ability to carry a narrative with high expectations from both audiences and critics. Yet, within this pressure lies immense opportunity. ‘Lolong’ is a chance for Madrid to showcase his talent, elevate his status, and connect with viewers on a profound level. His commitment to the role, his dedication to preparation, and his willingness to embrace the challenges ahead position him to not just meet the pressure but to rise above it, potentially delivering a performance that will solidify his place as a true ‘Bayani ng Bayan’ in the hearts of Filipino viewers. The journey ahead is undoubtedly demanding, but the potential rewards, both for Madrid and for the series itself, are immense, promising a compelling and unforgettable chapter in Philippine television.
