Maricel Soriano, ibinunyag ang tunay na tingin niya kay Fyang Smith

• Maricel Soriano expressed excitement over starring in Regal Films' MMFF 2026 entry, Haunted Carnival
• The veteran actress praised Fyang Smith's acting skills after previously working with her in a vlog
• Soriano shared that she was delighted to learn she would be working alongside Fyang and Julia Barretto
• She encouraged Fyang to build her own identity in showbiz instead of being compared to anyone else

Veteran actress Maricel Soriano is looking forward to returning to the big screen as one of the lead stars of Regal Films' official Metro Manila Film Festival entry, Haunted Carnival. Although filming has yet to begin, the award-winning actress admitted that she is already excited about the horror project and the possibilities it offers.

Speaking during the film's cast reveal held on July 26 at Valencia Events Place in Quezon City, Maricel shared that she has not yet read the complete script. Even so, the film's carnival setting immediately sparked her imagination, making her optimistic about what audiences can expect.

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“Hindi ko pa nabasa yung script pero nakita ko agad, ang dami mo kasing puwedeng gawin sa karnabal na nakakatakot. Ang dami. Sigurado ako magiging maganda ito!”

The upcoming horror film features an impressive lineup that includes John Arcilla, Julia Barretto, James Reid, Fyang Smith, RK Bagatsing, Ronnie Alonte, Charlie Fleming, and Selyn David.

During the media event, Maricel was also asked about working with Fyang Smith for the first time in a movie. The seasoned actress had previously invited the young star to appear in her vlog, where she discovered Fyang's acting potential firsthand.

Recalling that experience, Maricel said she immediately saw the younger actress's talent and was genuinely impressed by her performance.

“Na-excite ako kasi na-guest ko na siya sa vlog ko. Pinaarte ko itong batang ito. Sabi ko, ‘Ah, ang husay husay mo naman pala!’ Tuwang tuwa talaga ako sa kanya kasi ang galing galing niya.’ Sabi ko, ‘Anak, ang husay, husay mo!’ Tapos nung malaman ko na ang makakasama ko dito ay siya at si Julia (Barretto), ay sabi ko, ang gaganda ng mga kasama ko at saka mga ka-height ko lang sila (laughs). Kasi ako ma-i-intimidate pag matangkad.”

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Fyang has often been compared by some fans to Maricel, prompting questions about whether the veteran actress sees her as a possible successor. Rather than focus on the comparisons, Maricel expressed gratitude for the compliment while emphasizing that Fyang should continue creating her own identity in the entertainment industry.

She encouraged the young actress to embrace her individuality and allow people to recognize her for her own achievements instead of measuring her against established stars.

“Nakakataba ng puso yan. Pero ang gusto ko i-advise sa kanya, ‘Alam mo anak, you’re your own person. Pag dumating yung tamang pagkakataon, maipapakita mo sa kanila yung Fyang, hindi ako, di ba? Kasi gusto ko ikaw. Dahil dapat ikaw ang makita nila. I want them to see you — kung gaano kahaba na ang narating mo, kung gaano kataas na ang naabot mo.”

Maricel's heartfelt advice reflected not only her admiration for Fyang's talent but also her desire to see the young actress thrive through her own hard work and individuality. As anticipation builds for Haunted Carnival, fans are also looking forward to seeing the two actresses finally share the screen in what promises to be one of this year's most anticipated MMFF entries.

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Maria Cecilia "Maricel" Dador Soriano is a acclaimed Filipino actress and television personality, widely hailed in Philippine entertainment as "The Diamond Star" for her versatile and fiery acting style across comedy and drama. Starting her career as a child star in 1971, she went on to headline decades of iconic movies and TV shows, earning dozens of major accolades including FAMAS, Luna, and Asian Television Awards.

In another report, Fyang Smith and JM Ibarra teamed up with Maricel Soriano in one of the veteran actress's recent vlogs. During the collaboration, Soriano shared valuable acting tips that left a strong impression on the two young stars. Fyang and JM also recreated some of Maricel's most memorable scenes, delighting viewers with their performances. The pair likewise continued promoting their film Almost Us by personally selling tickets to audiences.

Meanwhile, Bela Padilla paid tribute to veteran actresses Jodi Sta. Maria and Maricel Soriano through a heartfelt message on her Instagram Story. She described Jodi as one of the most sincere and remarkable people she has ever worked with on set. Bela also commended Maricel for being warm, humorous, and caring, saying the screen legend surpassed all of her expectations. According to the actress, her experience with both stars proved that meeting your idols can sometimes be even better than imagined.

Source: KAMI.com.gh