Sam swings both ways

MANILA, Philippines - Sam Milby is on a roll.

After two years of absence in the soap opera circles, he came back in a big way via the Kapamilya network’s recently-concluded, but highly-succesful drama series, Huwag Ka Lang Mawawala.

In a lead role as Eros, Sam was able to showcase his acting that impressed even his co-stars in the series. Judy Ann Santos congratulated Sam during the thanksgiving party of the show last week when she gave the actor a gift with a short letter saying how impressed she was with his performance, especially during the finale where Sam pulled off the scene where his character went crazy. Coney Reyes likewise  acknowledged the actor’s effectivity. In a text message, she commended Sam for his transformation into a serious actor.

“I’ve waited a long time for that role,” said Sam, “the bida-kontrabida character is something I’ve been dreaming of because I knew it would challenge me to work harder.”

And all that hard work certainly paid off for Sam and the rest of the cast as the show’s finale shown last Aug. 23, garnered a high ratings share of 32.5. Reruns of that final episode on iwanttv.com also posted an impressive one million plus views.

But it doesn’t stop there for Sam. Just two days after the last episode of Huwag Ka Lang Mawawala, he was already shooting scenes for two new projects.

The actor-singer is starring in a movie titled The Gifted with Anne Curtis and Cristine Reyes. He will also start shooting for Kimmy Dora 3: Ang Kyemeng Prequel for the Metro Manila filmfest this year.

Asked how he’ll be able to juggle the possible overlaps of shooting two new movies, Sam answered “You know what? It’s a miracle that the schedules are already ironed out. As in walang conflict,” as he flashed those pearly whites. “Actually, both movies will have the same director so that’s another lucky break for me.”

Then, Sam added, “the two new movies I’m doing are both comedies, so It’s another challenge for me. As an actor, I want to take on different roles. I’m really aiming for versatility.” 

Sam was handpicked by director Chris Martinez to star in the two new movies, while director Joyce Bernal supports Chris’ choice of Sam as one of the producers of Kimmy Dora.

The directors like what they’re seeing in Sam and in turn, his fans are happy they get to see more of their idol.

Being visible in TV commercials (Systema Tooth & Gum Care and SM Milanos) and billboards (Folded & Hung, Diana Stalder and Unisilver) excite his followers more.

US and Canada tours this year, a thriving business venture in Prost Pub & Bar at The Fort, plus plans for other big projects in the pipeline for 2014 show that things are definitely looking up for Sam.