Pedigreed actress Janine Gutierrez is more inspired than ever as she steps into her latest role in the highly anticipated ABS-CBN series “Lavender Fields.” In a special interview arranged by the soap's showrunner, Dreamscape Entertainment, the 34-year-old primetime favorite acknowledged that the project represents a significant milestone in her career, not only because of the challenging nature of her latest role but also because it reinforces her continued growth as a performer.
“I've never been this excited and nervous at the same time for a new show,” shared the natural born star, whose grandparents on her maternal side happen to be movie icons Nora Aunor and Christopher de Leon, and Asia's Queen of Song Pilita Corrales and golden screen legend Eddie Gutierrez on her paternal side.
“I feel like I'm growing so much with this role — it's pushing me in ways I didn't expect,” gushed the humble mestiza beauty.
Janine is Iris Buenavides in “Lavender Fields,” a character she describes as “unlike anyone I've ever portrayed before.”
Her very first role as a contrabida (antagonist), she detailed Iris' duality as a high-powered CEO of a prominent steel conglomerate while covertly involved in her father's large scale illegal arms dealing operations. She will also serve as nemesis to the series namesake and primary lead, portrayed by Jodi Sta. Maria.
“Iris is woman who exudes strength and control but is deeply vulnerable beneath her steely exterior. I didn't know how to play her at first. She's so complex and so guarded and I'm a person who can never hide her emotions,” Janine admitted.
“I had to learn to hold back amid the really emotional scenes because Iris can't be ruffled, least of all cry, even if she feels devastated inside.”
To top it all off, she also needed to train in Filipino martial arts (FMA) since “Lavender Fields” is an action-drama, all while keeping her acting subtle and under control.
The immense challenge the role demanded from Janine apparently sent her running to her acting coach, Ana Feleo, where she found not only the training and confidence to deliver her complex character but also another inspiration in her craft and her life in general.
It so happens that she and Jericho Rosales, who portrays her husband in the series — and who proudly announced this week that they are dating (see related story) — share the same acting coach.
“It was there we discovered we're so similar in the way we work. We're both nerds in researching our characters and making sure we know how to approach our roles before going to set,” Janine enthused. “So we just clicked from the very first rehearsal and it's just been amazing to work with him. Echo is so dedicated and detailed in his work, and it pushes me to be better, too.”
Flushed and adorably giddy at this question-and-answer, having just learned from Jericho he had made their blossoming relationship public (see related story), Janine refreshingly let her guard down and more openly talked about what drew her to the comebacking actor.
“We have a lot in common beyond our attitude toward work — we're both beach lovers, we're both family-oriented,” Janine counted off. “It's easy to see why we get along so well. He's just so chill and down-to-earth. He's just a really good guy and I really enjoy being with him.”
Janine candidly revealed that her relationship with Jericho is totally unexpected. She recalls being acquaintances after they were randomly assigned the same table at last year's Star Magic Ball. And with 10 years between them, what were the chances that casting them together in a series would lead to something more.
“I'm as surprised as anyone else,” she insisted, but the twinkle in her eyes revealed that it was a happy and welcome one.
Addressing the age gap, Janine laughingly said, “He's surprised I know the songs he likes. I told him it's because it's the songs my papa listens to as well!”
Of course, Janine's dad is former matinee idol Ramon Christopher Gutierrez. His breakup with her mom and his teenage sweetheart, actress Lotlot de Leon, was sadly widely publicized for her younger self to see.
“I guess that's why I've always been scared to talk about my relationships in the past. I didn't realize until now,” Janine added, referring to Jericho's announcement, “that it feels good for someone to be proud and so open about being with you.”
Radiating with nothing but good vibes and a sincere hope for a promising relationship — the kind that the talented, hardworking and responsible woman she has grown up to be deserves — Janine ended the interview on such an uplifting note. As she graciously bid her goodbyes, one can be sure that whether on the set of “Lavender Fields” or her private moments, everything is coming up roses for the truly endearing star.
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