Andrea Brillantes is no longer playing safe

She first captured our hearts as the wide-eyed child actress in the iconic ABS-CBN sketch comedy show “Goin’ Bulilit.” However, it was her breakout performance in the acclaimed remake of “Annaliza” — stepping into the legendary shoes of the late Julie Vega — that cemented her status as a household name. Surrounded by a powerhouse cast including Zanjoe Marudo, Denise Laurel and Carlo Aquino, she proved even then that she was a force to be reckoned with.

Fast forward to 2026, and Ramona Anndrew Blythe Daguio Gorostiza — better known to the world as Andrea Brillantes, or simply “Blythe” to her inner circle — has blossomed into a formidable dramatic actress and a digital titan. With a staggering social media footprint of over 21 million TikTok followers, 17 million on Instagram and 4 million on YouTube, she isn’t just a star; she is a cultural phenomenon.

At just 23 years old, her resume is as expansive as her reach. Don’t let her petite stature fool you; Andrea is proof that true star power isn’t measured in inches, but in the depth of one’s talent and the fire of one’s ambition.

Currently, she is riding the crest of a massive wave with the premiere of “A Secret in Prague.” Since its debut last Sunday, April 26 on Netflix and April 27 on TV5, the series has dominated conversations online. Starring opposite Enrique Gil (who plays the charming waiter Mikoy Pinagpala), Andrea portrays Chiara Valtovi, a wealthy heiress trapped in a web of dark family secrets.

I had the chance to catch up with Andrea recently to talk about her “new era,” her blonde transformation and how she’s handling the whirlwind of 2026.

2026 seems to be a very good year for you. How are you balancing and coping?

“Honestly, I just take it one day at a time. I don’t try to do everything perfectly. I just focus on what matters in the moment. I’ve learned to protect my energy more, choose my battles, and make time for myself, friends and family in between work.”

Your reaction to “A Secret in Prague” being among Netflix’s Top 10 shows?

“Super grateful and honestly a bit surreal. We worked so hard on this project, so seeing people connect with it and talk about it means everything to me. It makes all the puyat and effort worth it.”

From a child actress, you are transitioning to more adult roles. What other types of roles do you want to play and why?

“I’m really drawn to complex characters. Yung may depth, may flaws, may pinagdadaanan. I want roles that challenge me, not just safe or expected characters. Mas gusto ko na role na baliw kaysa sa stagnant, to be honest.”

You are young and carefree. How do you enjoy, unwind and relax?

“I keep it simple. I like spending time with people I’m comfortable with, watching movies, traveling, or even just being alone and doing nothing. Minsan kasi that’s what you really need — quiet time to reset.”

You have a massive following across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube. What is your secret? How do you manage your content?

“I don’t really overthink it. I just try to be myself and share what feels real to me. People can tell when something is forced, so I try to keep it authentic. I also listen to what my audience enjoys, but I still stay true to who I am.”

How are you liking your ultra-blonde hair (which she dyed specifically for her role in “A Secret in Prague”)?

“I actually love it! It’s fun, it’s different, and it brings out a different side of me. Parang new energy, new era, ganon.”

Share with us some of your beauty secrets.

“Nothing too crazy, consistency lang talaga. Good skincare, hydration and taking care of yourself from the inside. Also, confidence plays a big part. When you feel good, it shows.”

“A Secret in Prague” airs Monday to Friday at 8 p.m. on TV5.