Will this Star Circle Batch prove to be lucky 13?

One wants to be Keannu Reeves. Another wants to be Justin Timberlake. One wants to be like Jennifer Lopez while the other wants to be the next Nicole Kidman. One aims to be the next leading man of Kristine Hermosa. While another one wants to be Kristine Hermosa.

Meet the latest talents launched by Star Magic: Star Circle Batch 13. A motley mix of 12 girls and 12 boys, Star Circle Batch 13 was first launched in ASAP ‘05 and ASAP Fanatic.

The Star Circle Batch 13 members are: Timmyboy Sta. Maria, Ava Johnson, Skyler Taylo, Lee Simon Brown, Aaron Agassi (Carlos’ Agassi’s brother), Isabel Blaesi, Dominic and Felix Roco (sons of Bembol Roco), AJ Perez, Bianca Aguila, Katrina Aguila, Christopher Gutierrez (grandson of Gloria Romero and Juancho Gutierrez), Valeen Montenegro, Dino Imperial, Marial Isabella Lopez (daughter of Maria Isabel Lopez), Lauren Young, Princess Ryan, Angela Antonio, Zaira dela Pena, Empress Schuck, Zia Marquez (daughter of Joey Marquez and Brenda del Rio), Angelo Ilagan (Jay Ilagan’s nephew), Nicco Cezar (son of Philip Cezar) and Jeremiah Rosales (brother of Jericho Rosales).

They were formally introduced to media via press con hosted by Star Magic. They presented production numbers with several of them singing in a medley of Janet and Michael Jackson songs. "Ay ang gu-guwapo ng mga boys ha!" exclaimed one gay reporter who got into a demonic trance over the male members. "Hindi ko ‘ata kaya bastusin! Ha ha ha!"

Many entertainment writers were impressed with the kids of Star Circle Batch 13. Some had their own bets for stardom. Another was coercing Angela to join the Bb. Pilipinas pageant.

Many were smitten with the charm and wit of Dino, Nicco, Christopher, Jeremiah and Timmy Boy.

But everyone agreed that Zia Marquez, the precocious 13-year-old daughter of Joey Marquez and Brenda del Rio, is the feistiest.

During her interviews, Zia exuded a passion to succeed not characteristic of kids her age whose life is centered around the shopping mall. Zia fearlessly declared that she wants to be a star, nothing less. She said she wants to be famous all over the country.... Just like her idol Claudine Barretto. "Tita Claudine is a great actress and is idolized by a lot of people. She is very talented and beautiful. I just want to be like her."

Asked if she’s ready to face intrigues about her, her parents and othe relatives, Zia, gave a resounding "Of course!" without batting an eyelash. "That’s part and parcel of this job I chose. I am a strong person and all I can say is bring it on!"

Well, to you kids, I say, "Bring it on!"

A Brave Heart

The people behind ABS-CBN’s epic-teleserye, Panday, are very proud to announce that Heart Evangelista will play the leading lady of Jericho Rosales. My friend, Tristan Gaynor, one of the writers of Panday, is feverishly gushing over the material having worked on nothing but Panday in the last several months.

Panday is set to resume taping soon. Now that the cast is complete, there is no stopping ABS-CBN from creating on TV one of the best Pinoy classics. Panday is directed by Toto Natividad and Rechie del Carmen.

Heart is very excited. She says, "I’m happy, scared, ecstatic all at the same time. It’s overwhelming to be given this opportunity and I hope I wouldn’t disappoint people.

There’s much anticipation for Panday, much have been said and written already and I hope I’ll meet everyone‘s expectations. I will work hard and give my all.’

And Heart has decided to give her all. She confesses that she just broke up with her long-time non-showbiz boyfriend. And because of this, "I will concentrate more on my work. I love my job as an actress. My other ‘love’ can wait. I’m not in a hurry. Minsan lang dumating ang ganito kalaking chance and I might as well grab it. Importante ang trabaho ko. My love life can take a back seat temporarily."

In Panday, people will see a brave Heart!