Paolo Ballesteros’ unlikely role

Zaido’s a hit not only to kids but even to grown-ups as well. Can’t blame them especially those who grew up in the era of metal heroes, of which I’m part of.

So, you could just imagine how excited I was when I recently met the cast of GMA’s newest member on its Primetime Telebabad block. 

It’s like being transported back to my childhood. (Ala Back To The Future ang drama.)  

For the uninitiated, ZAIDO is GMA’s version of Shaider. But instead of Alexis saving the galaxy from the cruel, vile dominion of Fuma Ley-Ar, it’s the Pinoy’s time to shine this time.  

Not one, but three pulis pangkalawakan were called to spearhead the mission of saving the universe. Not one, but three equally good-looking Kapuso stars were given the prime order to breathe life into GMA’s fantastic fantaserye. 

If all the members of the police force are as dashing as Dennis Trillo, Marky Cielo and Aljur Abrenica, I wouldn’t mind taking a compulsory police training.

But aside from the muy guapo ZAIDOs, Paolo Ballesteros proved to be a pleasant surprise. I did not recognize him when he went on stage as the cast was being introduced. My officemate and I were debating good-naturedly whether the character in purple—Yda—is Karylle or another celebrity whose name escaped me as of the moment. 

But then again, we were both proven wrong when the host announced that it was Paolo Ballesteros. Yes, the same Paolo who has wowed the audience and viewers alike in the Bebot portion of “Eat Bulaga”. 

I got the chance to corner Paolo as my friend has been nagging me for a photo opportunity with him. And so, while he has just finished his interview for 24 ORAS, I pounced on him with questions even before the other reporters had the chance to catch up. 

Isn’t he too wary that accepting the Yda role may only fan wild rumors that he’s…gay? “No. Actually, I’ve done research on the role din. And I saw in YouTube that Yda’s a transvestite. I’m even grateful to them (those who are spreading the rumors). Thank you, dahil sa inyo, nagkaroon ako ng trabaho,” he smiled. 

How is he adjusting to the role so, far? Props and make-up-wise?

“Medyo mabigat lang ‘yung headdress and mainit. Tapos, dusa din sa nails. Kasi, it has to be glued.”

 How about the wedged-shoes that he’s asked to wear?

“Medyo okay lang, kasi nakapagsuot na rin naman ako nito sa Bebot. So, hindi na ganung ka-strange ang pakiramdam. Hindi naman ako nagka-cramps,” Paolo shared. 

The group of reporters, me included, was one in noting that he looks “pretty.” How does he find the experience of being described as such.

“Okay ‘yun, maganda na, guwapo pa. Hahahaha joke,” he quipped. 

Well, Paolo, I think fits the role to a T. Yda, after all, is the most beautiful creature in the galaxy. But behind Yda’s the enchanting face is an ugly heart—on that aspect, I think Paolo is a far cry from his character as he appears to be the kind of guy who seems to get along with everybody, on and off the camera.