Actor Mark Herras has become the subject of public scrutiny following his recent performance at the Apollo Entertainment Restobar, where he reportedly performed a provocative dance routine reminiscent of Magic Mike.
The incident drew mixed reactions online, with some expressing support and others disappointment over his career trajectory.
Veteran entertainment columnist and former manager Lolit Solis did not hold back her thoughts, expressing concern over Herras’ decision to perform at the bar. In an online video, Solis said she felt pity for the actor, whom she managed after he won the reality talent competition ‘StarStruck’ in 2003.
“Siyempre naaawa, dahil imadyinin mo ‘yung status niya parang gano’n (pababa),” she said. “Hindi ko naman inaano ‘yung mga nagpe-perform sa gay bar. Lahat naman may karapatan doon at saka kung minsan trabaho lang naman. Kaya lang, sana iniisip niya man lang na mayroon siyang pinoproteksyunang career, kung may career pa.”
Solis questioned whether Herras had considered the long-term impact of his actions. “Ikaw mismo, tanungin mo sarili mo. Tama ba na at this point, magpe-perform ka na sa ganu’n? ‘Di ba? Parang lowest na ‘yun na gagawin mo para sa trabaho.”
The performance has sparked debates on social media, with some netizens criticizing Herras for the move, while others expressed sympathy, citing the challenges of sustaining a career in show business.
Herras rose to fame in 2003 as the first-ever ‘StarStruck’ Ultimate Male Survivor, building a career in acting and dancing. He became a household name, starring in various films and TV series. However, his career has noticeably slowed down in recent years.
His last prominent role was a guest appearance in the 2024 teleserye ‘Abot-Kamay na Pangarap’. In the 2023 series ‘The Missing Husband’, Herras was no longer part of the main cast, highlighting the apparent decline of his once-thriving career.
As of this writing, Herras has yet to address Solis’ comments or the criticism surrounding his recent performance.
While the incident has sparked conversations about Herras’ choices, fans and colleagues remain hopeful for his comeback, wishing that he regains the momentum of his earlier success.
