Former fitness instructor Anthony Davao has been steadily building his acting career in the sexy star genre, and he has now landed his first lead role in the Vivamax movie ‘Lady Guard.’
Starting his acting career with several Vivamax projects, Anthony finally had the opportunity to showcase not just his physique but also his acting skills by portraying the supervisor of Estelle (Angela Morena).
When asked on May 2 if he felt pressured during the filming of the movie, Anthony admitted that he did. However, he saw it as positive pressure that motivated him.
“Andoon lahat ng pressure. The pressure really actually motivates me. I do want to work under pressure. Mas ginagalingan ko siya ‘pagka-ganoon. ‘Pag walang pressure, it’s like I’m not working at all. It’s like I work when it’s hard and I don’t work when it’s not hard,” he explained.
In ‘Lady Guard,’ he collaborates with seasoned sexy star Morena and fellow newcomer Irish Tan, whom he commended for their seamless work through each scene.
“It’s a very nice experience actually. Ang galing nila and ang sarap nilang katrabaho. And feeling ko para ako talaga ‘yung role na ‘yun. Kumbaga kapag kaharap mo sila, parang we’re really doing this kind of scene na extreme. Kaya madaling gawin ‘yung trabaho,” he said.
Starting a showbiz career in the sexy actor category often comes with negativity, including concerns from family members. In Anthony’s case, however, his family has been supportive with a few boundaries. Beyond showcasing his physique, he aims to emphasize his acting prowess.
“They are actually very supportive. But there are some boundaries and limits that must be respected. Of course, they are proud because I’m not just showcasing my body, but as I mentioned, there are restrictions.
“Actually, hindi naman sila… they’re very supportive. Pero mayroon lang silang restrictions at kung hanggang saan lang dapat. Siyempre they’re proud kasi hindi lang naman katawan ko ang maipapakita ko pero ‘yun nga, mayroon tayong restrictions. And siyempre naka-focus din tayo doon sa acting skills not only the sexy scenes and all. Gusto ko din siyempre ma-showcase ang acting talaga. Kasi the sexy scenes is there, you can do it. Pero ‘yung acting talaga is doon mo makikita kung talagang actor ka o hindi. It’s not just being a sexy actor but the actor itself.”
Did his surname sound familiar?
Anthony hails from the renowned showbiz Davao family. His father, Charlon Davao, is related to esteemed actor-director Ricky Davao, who is his uncle.
Having been exposed to showbiz from a young age, Anthony witnessed firsthand how his family of artists operated. Observing their work ethic and the challenges they faced motivated him to pursue a career in the same industry.
“Growing up I saw them kung pa’no sila magtrabaho, paano nila aralin ang script nila, and at times sinasama rin kami sa set. So namulat ako sa ganoong trabaho, and alam ko how professional they are. Kaya malaking tulong po talaga iyon para magising ako ngayon sa industry na ito.”
Meanwhile, his uncle Ricky is now a director. Anthony expressed his eagerness to collaborate with him someday to further his growth as an actor.
“Oo naman. I am very looking forward to that. Sana makatrabaho ko siya. Ewan ko pero sobrang saya no’n and marami akong matutunan sa kanya for sure.”
Catch Anthony Davao in ‘Lady Guard,’ streaming on Vivamax starting May 3.