Showbiz new Mr. Clean

MANILA, Philippines - Aljur Abrenica has been around in showbiz for only two years but a lot of good things are already happening to his career from the time he was named Ultimate Hunk on GMA 7’s artista search StarStruck batch 4. Of course, it cannot be helped if some people recently dragged his name in a sex scandal.

Aljur is firm on his stand: He will never do anything to tarnish his clean and wholesome image.

What posed as a tougher challenge to him now together with screen partner Kris Bernal is the biggest project GMA 7 has entrusted them with. The two caught televiewers’ interest in the just-concluded TV remake of Dapat Ka Bang Mahalin? and toppled all afternoon soap records including its competition in the rival network.

This is why the Kapuso network banked on the loveteam’s success via another show, this time on primetime. Titled All My Life, it will air weeknights before 24 Oras beginning June 29. The new TV series will test not only the kilig factor but Aljur and Kris’ acting prowess.

Though he has already starred in primetime shows like Zaido, Dyesebel and Luna Mystika, Aljur can’t help but feel butterflies in his stomach when playing lead opposite Kris in a primetime show.

“This is more challenging because the Kris-Aljur loveteam must equal if not surpass what we have achieved in our first major team up. Besides, All My Life won’t be limited anymore to a certain audience. Even young people can watch us, unlike in the afternoon (slot) where most of them are either in school or at work. We have to set a good example, too,” states Aljur.

To be credible as Jules Romualdez, Aljur reads the script everyday and makes sure he gives proper emotions scene after scene. He developed muscles in the right places for scenes that require him to bare his body. He, too, is thankful they got the chance to attend acting workshops before taping started.

Asked if he is now more at ease doing drama, Aljur admits he’s still learning the ropes of affecting the audience and wishes he could do what his idol Dennis Trillo does in playing a role. Aljur also observes how Seann Penn tackles a role.

Does he think his reel romance with Kris can turn real?

“We haven’t reached that stage of committing ourselves to each other. I am courting Kris since Dapat (Ka Bang Mahalin?) days but until now she hasn’t said yes to me. I don’t pressure her. ”

Aljur often brings Kris her favorite food. He also gifted her a locket on her birthday.

Can he still do a show without the other half of the love team?

“I think so as I am looking forward to doing action-drama someday. I also want to have some time in singing,” Aljur replies.

Why not, when he got that vocal talent from his musician dad Alfonso who owns a videoke bar called Ichiban in Batangas City?

With a lot of things he wants to do, Aljur assures, he is ready to face the consequences of being in showbiz especially if one is climbing fast the ladder of success.

“As long as I know I’m not doing wrong to anybody, I can survive whatever comes my way,” he remarks.

Well, everything has a price. Aljur has to weather intrigues to survive in the business. It’s part of the game, and the road to success.