Enrique Mari Bacay Gil V (; born March 30, 1992
) is a
Filipino
Filipino may refer to:
* Something from or related to the Philippines
** Filipino language, standardized variety of 'Tagalog', the national language and one of the official languages of the Philippines.
** Filipinos, people who are citizens of th ...
actor, dancer, and commercial model. Gil has appeared in various films and television shows such as ''
Mula Sa Puso
''Mula sa Puso'' ( en, From the Heart) is a 1997 Philippine primetime melodrama romance television series originally aired by ABS-CBN from March 10, 1997, to April 9, 1999 (the series ended for 2 years in its long-run) replacing '' Maria M ...
'', ''
Budoy
''Budoy'' is a Philippine drama television series broadcast by ABS-CBN.
It tackles the story of Budoy, who is mentally challenged, and his family, relationships and social issues. It topbills Gerald Anderson, Jessy Mendiola and Enrique Gil. T ...
'', ''
Princess and I'', ''
Muling Buksan Ang Puso'' and ''
She's the One''. He is best known for his role as Alexander "Xander" Grande III in the television series ''
Forevermore'' in 2014–15, alongside
Liza Soberano
Hope Elizabeth Soberano( , ; born January 4, 1998), professionally known as Liza Soberano, is a Filipino actress, model and singer. She started in a range of television series and films, including ''Wansapanataym'' (2011), ''Kung Ako'y Iiwan Mo ...
.
Since then, he has starred in the films ''
Just The Way You Are'' (2015), ''
Everyday I Love You'' (2015), ''
Dukot
''Dukot'' () is a 2016 Filipino suspense thriller film directed by Paul Soriano. It stars Enrique Gil, Ricky Davao, Shaina Magdayao, Bing Pimintel and Christopher de Leon. The film is executive produced by Charo Santos-Concio and Malou Santos. ...
'' (2016), ''
My Ex and Whys'' (2017), ''
Seven Sundays'' (2017), and ''
Alone/Together
''Alone/Together'' is a 2019 Filipino romantic drama film written and directed by Antoinette Jadaone, and starring Liza Soberano & Enrique Gil. It follows the love story of Christine (Soberano) and Raf (Gil), who cross paths again five years aft ...
'' (2019); and the television series ''
Dolce Amore
''Dolce Amore'' ( English: ''Sweet Love'') is a 2016 Philippine romantic drama television series directed by Mae Cruz-Alviar, Cathy Garcia-Molina and Richard Arellano, starring Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil. The series aired on ABS-CBN's ''Pr ...
'' (2016), ''
Bagani
Bagani or magani refers to the class of warrior-leaders of various Lumad ethnic groups of the island of Mindanao, Philippines. Bagani were most notably integral to the traditional society and government of the Mandaya, Mansaka, Manobo, and Bagobo ...
'' (2018), and ''
Make It With You
"Make It with You" is a song written by David Gates and originally recorded by American pop- rock group Bread, of which Gates was a member. Gates and drummer Mike Botts are the only members of the group to appear on the recording which was a No ...
'' (2020).
Early life
Enrique Mari Bacay Gil V was born on March 30, 1992, in
Cebu City
Cebu City, officially the City of Cebu ( ceb, Dakbayan sa Sugbo; fil, Lungsod ng Cebu; hil, Dakbanwa sang Sugbo), is a 1st class highly urbanized city in the Central Visayas region of the Philippines and capital of the Cebu Province. Acc ...
,
Philippines
The Philippines (; fil, Pilipinas, links=no), officially the Republic of the Philippines ( fil, Republika ng Pilipinas, links=no),
* bik, Republika kan Filipinas
* ceb, Republika sa Pilipinas
* cbk, República de Filipinas
* hil, Republ ...
.
He is the second son of Enrique Amadeo Gil III and Barbara Anne Bacay.
His father is Filipino of Spanish descent, while his mother is Filipino with Spanish, German, and Swiss ancestry.
He has an older brother named Enrique Javier (Javy)
and a younger sister named Diandra Frances (Andie).
His parents used to work as crew for
Philippine Airlines
Philippine Airlines (PAL), a trade name of PAL Holdings, Inc. (Philippine Stock Exchange, PSEPAL (Philippine Air Lines until 1970), is the flag carrier airline of the Philippines. Headquartered at the Philippine National Bank, PNB Financial Cen ...
. He is also related to
Dingdong Dantes
Jose Sixto Raphael Gonzalez Dantes III (born August 2, 1980), professionally known as Dingdong Dantes (), is a Filipino actor, television presenter, dancer, commercial model and film producer who is currently working as an employment contract, ...
.
Gil finished grade school at the Montessori De Manila in March 2004, a private institute inside the BF Executive Village (''Venice Street'') in
Las Piñas
Las Piñas, officially the City of Las Piñas ( fil, Lungsod ng Las Piñas), is a 1st class highly urbanized city in the National Capital Region of the Philippines. According to the 2020 census, it has a population of 606,293 people.
Las Piñas ...
, and secondary school at the
Manresa School in
Parañaque in March 2008.
He went to
San Beda College Alabang
San Beda College Alabang ( es, Colegio de San Beda de Alabang) and ( fil, Dalubhasaang San Beda sa Alabang) is a private, Catholic basic and higher education institution run by the Benedictine monks in Cupang, Muntinlupa, Metro Manila, Philippin ...
to pursue a degree in
Information Technology
Information technology (IT) is the use of computers to create, process, store, retrieve, and exchange all kinds of Data (computing), data . and information. IT forms part of information and communications technology (ICT). An information te ...
, but put his studies on hold to focus on his acting career. In 2016, he started attending a
Business Management Program at the
Southville International School in BF International,
Las Piñas
Las Piñas, officially the City of Las Piñas ( fil, Lungsod ng Las Piñas), is a 1st class highly urbanized city in the National Capital Region of the Philippines. According to the 2020 census, it has a population of 606,293 people.
Las Piñas ...
.
Career
2008-2011: Career beginnings
Gil started acting in 2008. He was 16 years old when his mother made him join ''My Talent'' summer workshops headed by Trumpets Playshop founder and STAGES president Audie Gemora, to overcome his shyness. They eventually pushed him to audition for
Star Magic
ABS-CBN Center for Communication Arts, Inc., doing business as Star Magic (formerly known as ABS-CBN Talent Center), is the talent agency owned by ABS-CBN Corporation based in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines that was founded in 1992.
...
.
Before being introduced to the media as a member of the Star Magic Circle Batch 16, he appeared in a series of
TV commercials
A television advertisement (also called a television commercial, TV commercial, commercial, spot, television spot, TV spot, advert, television advert, TV advert, television ad, TV ad or simply an ad) is a span of television programming produce ...
, including a Lewis and Pearl's advertisement, alongside
Coleen Garcia
Danielle Claudine Ortega Garcia-Crawford (born September 24, 1992), known professionally as Coleen Garcia (, is a Filipino actress, host, and model. Garcia started her career as a child and teenager appearing in several commercials. She was ev ...
. He landed his first television role in the
action
Action may refer to:
* Action (narrative), a literary mode
* Action fiction, a type of genre fiction
* Action game, a genre of video game
Film
* Action film, a genre of film
* ''Action'' (1921 film), a film by John Ford
* ''Action'' (1980 fil ...
-
drama
Drama is the specific mode of fiction represented in performance: a play, opera, mime, ballet, etc., performed in a theatre, or on radio or television.Elam (1980, 98). Considered as a genre of poetry in general, the dramatic mode has b ...
series ''
Pieta'' where he played the character Harold.
Before ''Pieta'', he had a cameo appearance in ''
I Love Betty La Fea
''I Love Betty La Fea'' (stylized as ''I ♥ Betty La Fea'') is a Philippine drama series that was aired on ABS-CBN, based on the Colombian series ''Yo soy Betty, la fea'' from RCN Televisión from September 8, 2008 to April 24, 2009 replacing ' ...
'' as one of the "Eco-models."
In 2009, during the taping of ''Pieta'', his mother convinced him to audition for the
sitcom
A sitcom, a portmanteau of situation comedy, or situational comedy, is a genre of comedy centered on a fixed set of characters who mostly carry over from episode to episode. Sitcoms can be contrasted with sketch comedy, where a troupe may use ne ...
''
George and Cecil
''George and Cecil'' is a Philippine romantic comedy (rom-com) weekly primetime series starring newlyweds Judy Ann Santos and Ryan Agoncillo written and directed by Jose Javier Reyes on ABS-CBN. The series was aired from June 14, 2009 to Februa ...
''. As soon as head writer and director
Jose Javier Reyes
Jose "Joey" Javier Reyes (born October 21, 1954) is a Filipino professor, writer, director, miscellaneous crew and actor. He has won awards at the Gawad Urian, Metro Manila Film Festival and Filipino Star Awards for Movies for his films, whi ...
saw Gil, he immediately cast him to be on the show.
Later he was cast in the
indie film
An independent film, independent movie, indie film, or indie movie is a feature film or short film that is produced outside the major film studio system, in addition to being produced and distributed by independent entertainment companies (or, in ...
''Pitas'' as a brother of the lead character played by Kristel Moreno.
In 2010, he co-starred in the
indie
Indie is a short form of "independence" or "independent"; it may refer to:
Arts, entertainment, and media
Gaming
*Independent video game development, video games created without financial backing from large companies
*Indie game, any game (board ...
war film
War film is a film genre concerned with warfare, typically about navy, naval, air force, air, or army, land battles, with combat scenes central to the drama. It has been strongly associated with the 20th century. The fateful nature of battle s ...
''Diego and His Brothers''.
He joined ''
ASAP XV'' as one of
Star Magic
ABS-CBN Center for Communication Arts, Inc., doing business as Star Magic (formerly known as ABS-CBN Talent Center), is the talent agency owned by ABS-CBN Corporation based in Quezon City, Metro Manila, Philippines that was founded in 1992.
...
's "Gigger Boys" in April,
and in May, co-starred in the
teleserye
Philippine television drama, also known as ''teleserye'', Filipino telenovelas or P-drama, is a form of melodramatic, serialized, televised fiction in the Philippines. ''Teleserye'' is derived from two Filipino words: "tele", short for "''telebi ...
''
Rosalka
''Rosalka'' is a 2010 Philippine drama starring Empress Schuck in the title role along with Matt Evans and Felix Roco. The series aired on ABS-CBN's ''Hapontastic'' afternoon block from May 17, 2010, to October 22, 2010, replacing ''Magkano an ...
'', in which he played Andrew. He was originally set to appear in ''
Kokey @ Ako'',
but his character was written off in favor of
. In October, he was given the role of Joco, the younger brother of Paolo Barredo (
Gerald Anderson
Gerald Randolph Opsima Anderson Jr. (born March 7, 1989) is a Filipino-American actor. He is managed and under contract to Star Magic, ABS-CBN's home based talent agency.
Recognized as the "Action-Drama Prince" of Philippine industry, He is on ...
), in the film ''
Till My Heartaches End
''Till My Heartaches End'' is a 2010 Filipino romantic drama film directed by Jose Javier Reyes
Jose "Joey" Javier Reyes (born October 21, 1954) is a Filipino professor, writer, director, miscellaneous crew and actor. He has won awards at th ...
.''
He got his first hosting stint in the ABS-CBN teen variety show ''
Shoutout!
''Shoutout!'' is a Philippine teen music reality variety show broadcast by ABS-CBN. It aired from November 29, 2010 to February 11, 2011, and is hosted by the network's leading stars that include Erich Gonzales, Enchong Dee, Robi Domingo, Sam Con ...
''. This was revamped and renamed to ''Shoutout!: Level Up'', but the show was eventually cancelled due to poor ratings.
In 2011, Gil finally nabbed his first lead role as Michael Miranda — originally played by
Diether Ocampo
Diether Pascual Ocampo (born July 19, 1973) is a Filipino actor, singer, and model.
Background
Ocampo was born on July 19, 1973 in Aniban, Bacoor, Cavite, where he attended school. He attended De La Salle University-Dasmarinas. He is of German, ...
— in the
2011 remake of ''
Mula Sa Puso
''Mula sa Puso'' ( en, From the Heart) is a 1997 Philippine primetime melodrama romance television series originally aired by ABS-CBN from March 10, 1997, to April 9, 1999 (the series ended for 2 years in its long-run) replacing '' Maria M ...
''.
He next played Jim in the 10th episode of ''
Your Song
"Your Song" is a song written by English musician Elton John and songwriter Bernie Taupin, and performed by John. It was John's first international Top 10 chart single.
"Your Song" was first released by American rock band Three Dog Night in M ...
Presents: Kim''. The same year, he played Troy Cabrera in ''
Good Vibes''.
Gil admitted, during the ''Good Vibes'' press conference, that he was set to appear in the ABS-CBN's
remake of ''
María la del Barrio
''María la del Barrio'' ( Lit: ''Maria from the neighborhood''/English title: ''Humble Maria'') is a Mexican telenovela produced by Angelli Nesma Medina for Televisa in 1995. The series is a remake of '' Los ricos también lloran''. ''María ...
'' but had to turn down the role due to conflicting schedules.
He replaced
Albie Casiño
Alan Benedict Lee Hernandez Casiño (born May 14, 1993), popularly known as Albie Casiño, is a Filipino actor best known for his role as Christian in the 2010 hit series, ''Mara Clara''.
Personal life
Casiño was involved in a controversy wi ...
in the
Star Cinema film ''
Way Back Home'' — the film debut of
Kathryn Bernardo
Kathryn Chandria Manuel Bernardo (; born March 26, 1996) is a Filipino actress and singer.
Dubbed as “''Asia's Superstar”'' by various media outlets, People Asia hailed Bernardo as the Box Office Queen of her generation for being the onl ...
and
Julia Montes
Mara Hautea Schnittka (; born March 19, 1995), known professionally as Julia Montes (), is a Filipino-German actress and model. She is one of the most sought-after actresses in the country and has been hailed as the “''Royal Princess of Dram ...
.
It was succeeded by his stint as Benjamin “BJ” Maniego in ''
Budoy
''Budoy'' is a Philippine drama television series broadcast by ABS-CBN.
It tackles the story of Budoy, who is mentally challenged, and his family, relationships and social issues. It topbills Gerald Anderson, Jessy Mendiola and Enrique Gil. T ...
''.
He was featured in
Zia Quizon
Zia Denise Marie Padilla Quizon (born September 23, 1991), known by her stage name Zia Quizon, is a Filipino singer-songwriter and recording artist. She began her career after being signed to PolyEast Records and releasing her self-titled debu ...
's music video debut entitled "Ako Na Lang".
2012-2015: Rising popularity and breakthrough
In 2012, he starred as Dasho Jao Rinpoche in ''
Princess and I'', which became one of the most popular shows on
ABS-CBN
ABS-CBN (an initialism of its two predecessors' names, Alto Broadcasting System and Chronicle Broadcasting Network) is a Philippine commercial broadcast network that serves as the flagship property of ABS-CBN Corporation, a company unde ...
. He was also cast in the film ''
The Reunion'', a Filipino teen romantic comedy film directed by Frasco Mortiz.
He was included in ''
Amorosa'', his first horror film.
Later in the year, he appeared in ''
The Strangers'', one of the official entries for the 38th Metro Manila Film Festival. This was his first MMFF film.
In February 2013, he was featured in
Myrtle Sarrosa
Myrtle Abigail Porlucas Sarrosa (born December 7, 1994) is a Filipina actress, cosplayer, host, singer, songwriter and gamer who rose to prominence after being declared the '' Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Edition 4'' Big Winner. Sarrosa started her ...
's "Mr. Kupido" music video. He also portrayed Senate President
Juan Ponce Enrile on ''
Maalaala Mo Kaya''.
Following this, he appeared in a number of new projects such as ''
Muling Buksan Ang Puso'' series, alongside
Julia Montes
Mara Hautea Schnittka (; born March 19, 1995), known professionally as Julia Montes (), is a Filipino-German actress and model. She is one of the most sought-after actresses in the country and has been hailed as the “''Royal Princess of Dram ...
and
Enchong Dee
Ernest Lorenzo Velasquez Dee (, born November 5, 1988), professionally known as Enchong Dee, is a Filipino actor, model, and swimmer. Dee is a contract artist of ABS-CBN's Star Magic. He came to prominence after starring in his first major TV ...
.
In October 2013, he starred in the film ''
She's The One'' with
Bea Alonzo
Phylbert Angelli Ranollo Fagestrom (born October 17, 1987), professionally known as Bea Alonzo (), is a Filipino actress. Alonzo first gained recognition for the 2002 teleserye ''Kay Tagal Kang Hinintay''. She is best known for her portrayals ...
and
Dingdong Dantes
Jose Sixto Raphael Gonzalez Dantes III (born August 2, 1980), professionally known as Dingdong Dantes (), is a Filipino actor, television presenter, dancer, commercial model and film producer who is currently working as an employment contract, ...
, which earned him a Best Supporting Actor nomination in the
FAMAS Award
The Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences Awards (also known as the FAMAS Awards) are the annual honors given by the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS), an organization composed of award-winning writers and movie columni ...
s. Many considered this his breakthrough film as an actor.
The film earned 12 million pesos on its first day and grossed 135 million pesos on its fifth week.
Gil further gained attention for his dancing skills through his signature moves to the song "
Teach Me How to Dougie
"Teach Me How to Dougie" is a song recorded by American hip hop group Cali Swag District. It was produced by Runway Star for Cali Swag District's debut studio album, '' The Kickback'' (2011). The song was written by Chanti Glee, Charon Childs, and ...
" and “
Gentleman.”
He released a debut dance album under
Star Records
Star Music (stylized in lowercase as starmusic; formerly known as Star Records), is a record label in the Philippines owned and operated by media conglomerate ABS-CBN Corporation. It was formerly a separate company operating as a wholly owned ...
entitled ''
King of the Gil'' which reached Gold status.
Later in the year, Gil held his first headlining sold-out dance concert at the
Smart Araneta Coliseum
The Araneta Coliseum, also currently known by naming rights sponsorship as Smart Araneta Coliseum, is an indoor multi-purpose sports arena that is part of the Araneta City in the Cubao area of Quezon City, Philippines. Nicknamed as "the Big Do ...
with special guests
Angel Locsin
Angelica Locsin Colmenares (born April 23, 1985) is a Filipino actress and humanitarian. She is known for her dramatic roles and portrayals of heroines and mythological characters in film and television. She is a recipient of various accolades ...
,
Vice Ganda
Jose Marie Borja Viceral (born March 31, 1976), popularly known as Vice Ganda (; ), is a Filipino comedian, talk show host, television presenter, actor, entrepreneur, and singer. He is a regular host on ABS-CBN's noontime variety show '' It' ...
,
Kim Chiu,
Kathryn Bernardo
Kathryn Chandria Manuel Bernardo (; born March 26, 1996) is a Filipino actress and singer.
Dubbed as “''Asia's Superstar”'' by various media outlets, People Asia hailed Bernardo as the Box Office Queen of her generation for being the onl ...
,
Vhong Navarro
Ferdinand Hipolito Navarro (born January 4, 1977), known professionally as Vhong Navarro, is a Filipino comedian, actor, dancer, recording artist and television host. He is a regular host on ABS-CBN's noontime variety show '' It's Showtime''. H ...
,
Jhong Hilario
Virgilio Viernes Hilario Jr. (born August 11, 1976), professionally known as Jhong Hilario, is a Philippines, Filipino actor, dancer, television host, and politician. He is part of the Filipino dance group ''Streetboys''. He is currently servin ...
,
Arron Villaflor
Arron Villaflor (born July 5, 1990) is a Filipino actor, rapper, dancer, and talent of ABS-CBN. He started his career in Philippines' showbiz industry in the second season of ''Star Circle Quest'' where he finished as the runner-up. He's curr ...
,
Rayver Cruz
Raymond Oliver Cruz Ilustre (born July 20, 1989), better known by his screen name Rayver Cruz (), is a Filipino actor, dancer, singer, and host. He is the younger brother of fellow actor and dancer Rodjun Cruz.
Personal life
Rayver is a mem ...
,
Martin del Rosario
Martin Miguel Mangay del Rosario (born November 25, 1992) is a Filipino actor and model who is known for his portrayal of Norberto Matias in the 2011 drama series ''Minsan Lang Kita Iibigin'', as Severino Monzon in the TV adaptation of '' Pintad ...
,
Arjo Atayde
Juan Carlos "Arjo" Campo Atayde (born November 5, 1990) is a Filipino actor and politician who has served as the representative for Quezon City's 1st district since 2022. He is best known for his appearances on drama series aired on ABS-CBN, ...
,
Ejay Falcon
Ejay Lasap Falcon (born 21 November 1989) is a Filipino actor, model, endorser and politician who is the vice governor of Oriental Mindoro. As an actor, he came to prominence in 2008 after winning the reality show '' Pinoy Big Brother: Teen Ed ...
,
gloc-9
Aristotle Condenuevo Pollisco (born October 18, 1977), known professionally as Gloc-9, is a Filipino rapper, singer, and songwriter. Regarded as one of the best Filipino rappers of all-time, his fast-flowing vocal style has made him one of th ...
,
Young JV
Eduardo JV Arancillo Kapunan III (born July 23, 1990), known by his stage name JV Kapunan and also known as Young JV, is a Filipino hip-hop recording artist and actor. He became famous for his first single in 2009, "That Girl" which was compo ...
,
G-force
The gravitational force equivalent, or, more commonly, g-force, is a measurement of the type of force per unit mass – typically acceleration – that causes a perception of weight, with a g-force of 1 g (not gram in mass measure ...
, The Streetboys, and
Julia Montes
Mara Hautea Schnittka (; born March 19, 1995), known professionally as Julia Montes (), is a Filipino-German actress and model. She is one of the most sought-after actresses in the country and has been hailed as the “''Royal Princess of Dram ...
. Before proving his dancing prowess in the ''King of the Gil'' concert, Gil made his debut on radio drama ''Dear M.O.R. Special'' on My Only Radio (MOR) 101.9 For Life! and MOR TV. He portrayed Carlo, a hopeless romantic guy who gives everything to his liberated and dominant girlfriend Lois, played by FM radio's first-ever roving DJ and ''Darling ng Masa'' Eva Ronda.
In 2014, he replaced
Kiko Estrada
Jason Joseph Francis Carlos Diaz Ejercito (; born June 4, 1995), known professionally as Kiko Estrada, is a Filipino actor who is best known for his role in ''Tween Hearts'' on GMA Network before he transferred to ABS-CBN, where he appeared in ...
in the fantasy series ''
Mirabella
''Mirabella'' was a women's magazine published from June 1989 to April 2000. It was created by and named for Grace Mirabella, a former ''Vogue'' editor in chief, in partnership with Rupert Murdoch.
It was originally published by News Corporati ...
''
— the debut project of
Julia Barretto
Julia Francesca Barretto Baldivia (born March 10, 1997), better known for her screen name Julia Barretto (), is a Filipino actress and model.
Dubbed as the “''Drama Princess''” of her generation by various media outlet, Barretto was inducte ...
.
On February 26, the wattpad author
HaveYouSeenThisGirL
Denny R. (born 11 February 1994, San Pablo City, Laguna, Philippines), commonly known by her pseudonym HaveYouSeenThisGirL, is a Filipino author. She is best known for her novel, ''Diary ng Panget''. It first appeared on Wattpad and was later ...
admitted via Twitter that Gil was really supposed to be in the film adaptation of ''
Diary ng Panget
The ''Diary ng Panget'' (''Diary of an Ugly'') is a tetralogy series of romantic comedy novels by a Wattpad author under the name of HaveYouSeenThisGirL. The original, unedited story was first posted on the online literary site Wattpad. The st ...
'' but refused to say why it didn't push through.
On March 1, Gil launched his single "Do The Moves" with
Sarah Geronimo
Sarah Asher Tua Geronimo-Guidicelli (, , born July 25, 1988) is a Filipino singer, performer and actress. Geronimo rose to prominence after winning the television singing contest '' Star for a Night'' earning her a recording contract with Vi ...
and
apl.de.ap
Allan Pineda Lindo (born November 28, 1974), known professionally as apl.de.ap (), is a Filipino-American rapper, singer and record producer. He is a founding member of the hip hop group Black Eyed Peas.
Early life
Allan Pineda Lindo was born ...
. Its youth-oriented music video was released on March 8.
On March 16, Gil confirmed that he would be part of the film ''
The Trial
''The Trial'' (german: Der Process, link=no, previously , and ) is a novel written by Franz Kafka in 1914 and 1915 and published posthumously on 26 April 1925. One of his best known works, it tells the story of Josef K., a man arrested and pr ...
'' as Martin, the best friend of Ronald (
John Lloyd Cruz
John Lloyd Espidol Cruz (born June 24, 1983) is a Filipino actor, model and occasional TV host. He was a member of ABS-CBN's Star Magic, where he is an alumnus of Batch 5. He starred in the teen drama ''Tabing Ilog'', and is best known for his ...
).
On May 18, Gil was named the "Most Promising Male Star of the Year" at the
45th Box Office Entertainment Awards.
On June 25,
Star Cinema announced that Gil alongside
Liza Soberano
Hope Elizabeth Soberano( , ; born January 4, 1998), professionally known as Liza Soberano, is a Filipino actress, model and singer. She started in a range of television series and films, including ''Wansapanataym'' (2011), ''Kung Ako'y Iiwan Mo ...
would lead the film adaptation of Kimberly Joy Villanueva's novel ''The Bet''.
On August 21, Gil took part in
ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra
The ABS-CBN Philharmonic Orchestra is a Filipino radio orchestra based in Manila. It was founded in 2012 with financial support from ABS-CBN and First Philippine Holdings. It is composed of 40 instrumentalists. The orchestra's musical director ...
's debut album ''Decades of OPM'' together with
Abra, doing their version of "Totoy Bibo."
In October 2014, he played the lead role as the rebellious hotel company heir Alexander "Xander" Grande III, who falls in love with Maria Agnes Calay, played by Soberano in the hit romantic comedy television series ''
Forevermore'', which marked a significant turning point in Gil's career.
The series finale scored a 39.3 percent rating, the highest recorded national TV rating on Philippine television in 2015.
In June 2015, following the success of ''Forevermore'' and his tandem with actress Soberano, they starred in a movie based on the
Wattpad
Wattpad is an online literature platform intended for users to read and write original stories. The founders Allen Lau and Ivan Yuen say that the platform aims to create social communities around stories and remove the barriers between readers a ...
book ''The Bet''. The film adaptation, initially titled as the same name as its source material was renamed ''
Just The Way You Are''. Later that year, Gil starred in his follow-up movie with Soberano in the romantic film ''
Everyday I Love You'' with
Gerald Anderson
Gerald Randolph Opsima Anderson Jr. (born March 7, 1989) is a Filipino-American actor. He is managed and under contract to Star Magic, ABS-CBN's home based talent agency.
Recognized as the "Action-Drama Prince" of Philippine industry, He is on ...
, directed by
Mae Cruz-Alviar
Mae Czarina Reyes Cruz-Alviar is a film and television director from the Philippines. She is known for the films ''Crazy Beautiful You'' (2015), '' Can't Help Falling in Love'' (2017), and ''Four Sisters Before the Wedding
''Four Sisters Befo ...
. Gil plays Ethan, who falls in love with
Bacolod
Bacolod, officially the City of Bacolod (; hil, Dakbanwa/Syudad sang Bacolod; fil, Lungsod ng Bacolod), is a 1st class highly urbanized city in the region of Western Visayas, Philippines. It is the capital of the province of Negros Occidenta ...
lass Audrey (Soberano), who is in a relationship with Tristan (Anderson).
Both 2015 films were box office successes. On December 1, 2015, Gil received a star at the
Philippine Walk of Fame at Eastwood City, Libis, Quezon City.
2016-2019: Subsequent success
In February 2016, Gil and Soberano returned to
prime time
Prime time or the peak time is the block of broadcast programming taking place during the middle of the evening for a television show. It is mostly targeted towards adults (and sometimes families). It is used by the major television networks to ...
with the romantic drama ''
Dolce Amore
''Dolce Amore'' ( English: ''Sweet Love'') is a 2016 Philippine romantic drama television series directed by Mae Cruz-Alviar, Cathy Garcia-Molina and Richard Arellano, starring Liza Soberano and Enrique Gil. The series aired on ABS-CBN's ''Pr ...
'', in which he played the role of Simon Vicente "TenTen" Ibarra, a poor and hardworking
Manila
Manila ( , ; fil, Maynila, ), officially the City of Manila ( fil, Lungsod ng Maynila, ), is the capital of the Philippines, and its second-most populous city. It is highly urbanized and, as of 2019, was the world's most densely populate ...
boy who will do anything for his family.
In July 2016, Gil was the lead actor in the action film ''
Dukot
''Dukot'' () is a 2016 Filipino suspense thriller film directed by Paul Soriano. It stars Enrique Gil, Ricky Davao, Shaina Magdayao, Bing Pimintel and Christopher de Leon. The film is executive produced by Charo Santos-Concio and Malou Santos. ...
'', which was based on a real kidnapping incident in the country. It was helmed by director
Paul Soriano
Paul David Soriano(; born October 17, 1981) is an American-born Filipino commercial and film director, producer.
Personal life
Soriano was born and raised in Los Angeles. His father is director and pastor Jeric Soriano, the son of actor Nest ...
and was co-produced by Star Cinema.
He won "Best Actor" in Gawad PASADO Awards for his acting performance.
In 2017, Gil starred in the romantic comedy drama film ''
My Ex and Whys'' opposite Liza Soberano, directed by
Cathy Garcia Molina
Catherine Rosales Garcia-Sampana (; formerly Molina; born November 28, 1971) is a Filipino film and television director best known for directing romantic comedy and family drama films produced and distributed by Star Cinema. She has also dir ...
, who had previously worked with them in the romantic comedy television series ''Forevermore''. The film was released in February 2017, grossing ₱31.5 million on its first day and won him the
GMMSF Box-Office Entertainment Award for Box Office King.
The same year, he took the role Dex in the family comedy-drama film ''
Seven Sundays'' alongside
,
Ronaldo Valdez
Ronald James Gibbs (born November 27, 1947, in Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines), popularly known by his on-screen name Ronaldo Valdez, is a veteran Filipino film and television actor whose career spanned for almost five decades.
Valdez is the f ...
,
Cristine Reyes
Ara Cristine Pascual Klenk (born February 5, 1989), known professionally as Cristine Reyes, is a Filipino actress, model, dancer and endorser. She is often called as the "Ultimate Star" by the local media for her acting prowess and popularity.
...
, and
Dingdong Dantes
Jose Sixto Raphael Gonzalez Dantes III (born August 2, 1980), professionally known as Dingdong Dantes (), is a Filipino actor, television presenter, dancer, commercial model and film producer who is currently working as an employment contract, ...
. Both films made the Top 10
List of highest-grossing Filipino films in 2017.
In 2018, he was cast in the role of Lakas, a warrior in the
television drama
In film and television show, television, drama is a category or genre of narrative fiction (or docudrama, semi-fiction) intended to be more serious than humour, humorous in tone. Drama of this kind is usually qualified with additional terms t ...
and
fantasy
Fantasy is a genre of speculative fiction involving Magic (supernatural), magical elements, typically set in a fictional universe and sometimes inspired by mythology and folklore. Its roots are in oral traditions, which then became fantasy ...
series ''
Bagani
Bagani or magani refers to the class of warrior-leaders of various Lumad ethnic groups of the island of Mindanao, Philippines. Bagani were most notably integral to the traditional society and government of the Mandaya, Mansaka, Manobo, and Bagobo ...
''.
The show debuted at number 1 in its time slot, and consistently ranked ahead of its competition during its five-month run.
In 2019, Gil and Soberano starred in the romantic drama film, ''
Alone/Together
''Alone/Together'' is a 2019 Filipino romantic drama film written and directed by Antoinette Jadaone, and starring Liza Soberano & Enrique Gil. It follows the love story of Christine (Soberano) and Raf (Gil), who cross paths again five years aft ...
'', written and directed by
Antoinette Jadaone
Antoinette Hilario Jadaone (born April 3, 1984) is a Filipina filmmaker and podcaster, best known for directing ''That Thing Called Tadhana'' (2014), '' Love You to the Stars and Back'' (2017), ''Never Not Love You'' (2018), '' Alone/Together'' ( ...
. In the film, Gil played Rafael "Raf" Toledo, a University of Santo Tomas - Biology student and an avid fan of
The Eraserheads
''The'' () is a grammatical article in English, denoting persons or things already mentioned, under discussion, implied or otherwise presumed familiar to listeners, readers, or speakers. It is the definite article in English. ''The'' is the m ...
turned doctor five years later. The film made the Top 10
List of highest-grossing Filipino films in 2019.
2020–present: Recent roles
In 2020, Gil appeared with Soberano in ''
Make It With You
"Make It with You" is a song written by David Gates and originally recorded by American pop- rock group Bread, of which Gates was a member. Gates and drummer Mike Botts are the only members of the group to appear on the recording which was a No ...
'' as Gabriel "Gabo" Villarica, a lost soul who finds himself in the small Eastern European country of
Croatia
, image_flag = Flag of Croatia.svg
, image_coat = Coat of arms of Croatia.svg
, anthem = "Lijepa naša domovino"("Our Beautiful Homeland")
, image_map =
, map_caption =
, capit ...
.
He took a break from acting during the
COVID-19 pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic, also known as the coronavirus pandemic, is an ongoing global pandemic of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The novel virus was first identif ...
, but decided to make a return to acting in 2022.
Other ventures
Philanthropy
In 2013, Gil joined the
PETA
Peta or PETA may refer to:
Acronym
* Pembela Tanah Air, a militia established by the occupying Japanese in Indonesia in 1943
* People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals, an American animal rights organization
* People Eating Tasty Animals, an ...
campaign "Free
Mali
Mali (; ), officially the Republic of Mali,, , ff, 𞤈𞤫𞤲𞥆𞤣𞤢𞥄𞤲𞤣𞤭 𞤃𞤢𞥄𞤤𞤭, Renndaandi Maali, italics=no, ar, جمهورية مالي, Jumhūriyyāt Mālī is a landlocked country in West Africa. Mali ...
" to transfer her from the
Manila Zoo
The Manila Zoo, formally known as the Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden, is a zoo located in Malate, Manila, Philippines.
History
The Manila Zoological and Botanical Garden first opened to the public on July 25, 1959, during the tenure ...
to
Boon Lott's Elephant Sanctuary in Thailand. Mali is the only captive elephant in the Philippines and has been in captivity for the majority of her life, alone, in a tiny enclosure, and in need of proper care.
In the same year, Gil donated part of the proceeds of his ''King of the Gil'' concert to the victims of
Typhoon Haiyan
Typhoon Haiyan, known in the Philippines as Super Typhoon Yolanda, was one of the most powerful tropical cyclones ever recorded. On making landfall, Haiyan devastated portions of Southeast Asia, particularly the Philippines. It is one of the ...
, also known as Super Typhoon Yolanda. In 2015, Gil alongside the cast of
Forevermore participated in ''Hoops for Hope: A Charity Basketball Game'', a project organized by the Bakhita Canossa Foundation to sustain the construction of houses for the Yolanda victims at Brgy. But,
Salcedo, Eastern Samar
Salcedo (IPA: sɐlˈsɛdo war, Bungto han Salcedo, tl, Bayan ng Salcedo), officially the Municipality of Salcedo, is a 5th class municipality in the province of Eastern Samar, Philippines. According to the 2020 census, it has a population o ...
. In July 2021, Gil and Soberano held a virtual fan meet to raise funds for
Save the Children
The Save the Children Fund, commonly known as Save the Children, is an international non-governmental organization established in the United Kingdom in 1919 to improve the lives of children through better education, health care, and economic ...
, a non-profit organization that advocates for children’s rights and provides support for children in need.
Business
Gil released his own fragrance line in collaboration with the fragrance brand in the Philippines, ''HKT Fragrances''. His debut perfume collection have four scents. The men's line includes ''BMF'' and ''Blaze'', while the women's variants are called ''Meow'' and ''Malibu''. In an official online launch event held on July 19, 2020 via HKT Productions
YouTube
YouTube is a global online video platform, online video sharing and social media, social media platform headquartered in San Bruno, California. It was launched on February 14, 2005, by Steve Chen, Chad Hurley, and Jawed Karim. It is owned by ...
Channel, Gil revealed details about how he personally produced and conceptualized the product alongside his sister Diandra Gil. The inspiration came from his father who loves wearing and buying perfumes. Gil said, "I also remember ''yun lagi yung pasalubong niya'' for my mom so it's something I grew up with and more than that, I like treating myself. Those little things, treating your senses. People sometimes forget that you got to smell good, and ''ang daming pabango na ang mamahal''. I wanna bring back that in people ''na'' you have to smell good and feel good about yourself." Portion of the brand's sales will go to ''Shop & Share'', a non-profit organization which aims to help underprivileged Filipinos get tested for
COVID-19
Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a contagious disease caused by a virus, the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2). The first known case was COVID-19 pandemic in Hubei, identified in Wuhan, China, in December ...
.
In February 2021, Gil launched ''HKT Essentials'' with Soberano. The alcohol brand was described as having a "baby powder scent and being gentle on the hands even if it is 70 percent ethyl alcohol." Portion of the brand’s sales will go to ''Save the Children'', as well as a relief program for barangay-level health workers.
In January 2022, Gil shared on his
Instagram
Instagram is a photo and video sharing social networking service owned by American company Meta Platforms. The app allows users to upload media that can be edited with filters and organized by hashtags and geographical tagging. Posts can ...
story that he sold one of his house projects in
BF Homes Parañaque
BF Homes Parañaque, officially Barangay BF Homes, is a gated community and administrative division in southern Metro Manila, the Philippines. It is one of the sixteen barangays that make up Parañaque and is the city's largest barangay and sout ...
. This was through his real estate developing business called ''Gil Side Homes''. In an interview with ''PEP.ph'' back in December 2019, Gil revealed that he has been into buying and selling of houses with his mother Barbara Anne Bacay.
Personal life
Gil dated his ''
Good Vibes'' co-star
Coleen Garcia
Danielle Claudine Ortega Garcia-Crawford (born September 24, 1992), known professionally as Coleen Garcia (, is a Filipino actress, host, and model. Garcia started her career as a child and teenager appearing in several commercials. She was ev ...
from 2010 to 2011.
In February 2019, he and his frequent
on-screen partner Liza Soberano
Hope Elizabeth Soberano( , ; born January 4, 1998), professionally known as Liza Soberano, is a Filipino actress, model and singer. She started in a range of television series and films, including ''Wansapanataym'' (2011), ''Kung Ako'y Iiwan Mo ...
publicly confirmed they had been a couple since October 24, 2014. Fans of the couple unofficially named a star after them in 2016.
Filmography
Television
Film
Music video appearances
Discography
;Notes
1 Theme song for ''
She's The One''
2 Together with
Sarah Geronimo
Sarah Asher Tua Geronimo-Guidicelli (, , born July 25, 1988) is a Filipino singer, performer and actress. Geronimo rose to prominence after winning the television singing contest '' Star for a Night'' earning her a recording contract with Vi ...
and
Apl.de.ap
Allan Pineda Lindo (born November 28, 1974), known professionally as apl.de.ap (), is a Filipino-American rapper, singer and record producer. He is a founding member of the hip hop group Black Eyed Peas.
Early life
Allan Pineda Lindo was born ...
. The single is for an endorsement.
3 Together with Liza Soberano. The single is for ABS-CBN's 2015 summer station ID.
4 with Liza Soberano,
Daniel Padilla
Daniel John Elago Ford (born April 26, 1995), better known by his screen name Daniel Padilla (), is a Filipino actor and recording artist. Padilla made his television debut with a supporting role in the soap opera ''Gimik 2010'' (2010), befor ...
,
Kathryn Bernardo
Kathryn Chandria Manuel Bernardo (; born March 26, 1996) is a Filipino actress and singer.
Dubbed as “''Asia's Superstar”'' by various media outlets, People Asia hailed Bernardo as the Box Office Queen of her generation for being the onl ...
,
James Reid,
Nadine Lustre
Nadine Alexis Paguia Lustre (, ; born October 31, 1993) is a Filipino actress and singer. She rose to fame after playing the lead role of Eya Rodriguez in the film ''Diary ng Panget'' (2014).
Lustre has since starred in the television series ...
,
Bamboo Mañalac
Francisco Gaudencio Lope Belardo MañalacVIDEO: "It's Francisco, that's my great-grandfather, then Gaudencio, that's my lolo, then it's Lope, then it's Belardo Mañalac." / (born March 21, 1976), popularly known as Bamboo Mañalac or simply by ...
, and Elha Nympha
;Notes
1 Together with
Daniel Padilla
Daniel John Elago Ford (born April 26, 1995), better known by his screen name Daniel Padilla (), is a Filipino actor and recording artist. Padilla made his television debut with a supporting role in the soap opera ''Gimik 2010'' (2010), befor ...
and
Khalil Ramos
Khalil Joseph Nepomuceno Ramos (; born January 22, 1996) is a Filipino actor and singer.
In July 2011, Ramos won second place on ''Pilipinas Got Talent'', a reality talent show in ABS-CBN and became a recording artist under Star Magic. In 201 ...
2 Together with
Abra 3 Together with Liza Soberano
Awards and nominations
References
External links
*
*
*
{{DEFAULTSORT:Gil, Enrique
1992 births
Star Music artists
Male actors from Cebu
Singers from Cebu City
Filipino people of Spanish descent
Filipino people of German descent
21st-century Filipino male actors
Filipino male models
21st-century Filipino male singers
Filipino male dancers
Bass-baritones
Living people
Filipino male television actors
ABS-CBN personalities
Visayan people
Cebuano people of Spanish descent
Cebuano male models