Jake Macapagal is a well-known Filipino actor who has made a name for himself in the entertainment industry with his amazing talent and acting skills.
Jake has over 35 years of experience on stage and screen and is best known for his ability to bring depth to the characters he plays.
He has appeared in a variety of other notable projects, including HBO Asia’s Halfworlds and Ben Rekhi’s Watch List.
His most recent series is No Escape on Paramount+ which is set in the Philippines.
The seven-part suspense drama series shot in Thailand is directed by Hans Herbots and written by Kris Mrksa. It has been adapted from Lucy Clarke’s best-selling novel ‘The Blue’ and features a number of stars from Australia and New Zealand.
In, No Escape, Jake is playing the role of Col. Justin Reyes from the local Filipino police force who’s determined to discover what really happened on the yacht – The Blue.
Jake says: “The role means a lot to me! I am the one investigating what happened on the yacht, so I follow them to Australia. But that’s easier said than done because it’s out of my jurisdiction.”
Jake has seen his share of struggle and demotivating criticism in his three decades of journey in the entertainment industry.
In 2010, Jake attended an eight-week acting course in Australia. He was told by an acting teacher that he is not going to make it in the industry as people are not going to cast him in any roles.
He adds:
“Discrimination was part of the experience in Australia … that’s 13 years ago…The teacher said without knowing anything about my background as a performer and where i want to be as an actor.”
Metro Manila is considered one of Jake’s standout performances. This critically acclaimed film earned him a nomination for ‘Most Promising Newcomer’ at the BIFA Awards.
Right now, Jake is finding it difficult to connect with filmmakers and actors in India. He says:
“I tried to connect with directors and actors in India after metro manilla was made as citylights. However, none of the Indian filmmakers have responded back!”
Jake is hopeful that for a prosperous Indo-Pacific film industry to develop and churn out stories that matter Indian filmmakers will need to be more open to their creative brothers and sisters in the region.
He observes:
“We need Indo-Pacific people to tell our stories with collaborations across the board.”
Given Jake’s vast experience and talent, there’s no doubt that his status as a rising star in the entertainment industry is confirmed. His career trajectory will also help open doors for other Filipino and Indo-Pacific actors who want to make their mark in the entertainment industry.
To know more about Jake Macapagal’s career and journey in the entertainment industry, listen to his exclusive interview with Dr Amit Sarwal.
