Balancing her bustling schedule while filming the second season of ‘Cruz vs. Cruz,’ Primera Kontrabida Gladys Reyes, now a prominent member of Star Magic’s illustrious lineup of talent, continues to shine as one of the Philippines' most legendary actresses

With a career that spans decades, her passion for her craft and her unwavering dedication keep her at the forefront of the entertainment industry, captivating audiences with every performance. Even with her hectic schedule, she is grateful for every opportunity that comes her way.

“Nakatapos tayo ng isang musical film titled ‘The Heart of Music’, and recently, we had a premiere night, so marami nang medyo nakasilip doon sa initial preview ng pelikula. Ako po ay nagpapasalamat kasi talagang ang daming sumuporta at tumulong. (We just finished a musical film titled ‘The Heart of Music’, and recently, we had a premiere night, so many people have already had a glimpse of the initial preview of the film. I am truly grateful for those who supported and helped)," said Gladys during a special appearance at Star Magic’s Spotlight Presscon recently.

‘The Heart of Music’ marks a new territory for the seasoned actress, as it’s her first time starring in a musical family drama, set to hit cinemas this Dec. 10. “Ibang-iba. (Very different), Gladys said, describing her role in the musical film in one word.

She also expressed her willingness to explore roles outside her typical kontrabida image. "Why not? Just like in 'The Heart of Music'—this is truly unexpected,” she stated.

When asked if acting is something she sees herself doing for the rest of her life, Gladys shared that it’s a two-way desire—if people still want to see her, she’s more than willing to keep doing it.

“Lalo kong navavalidate na ito talaga ‘yung gusto kong gawin hanggang sa pagtanda ko. Hangga’t gusto nila ako, hangga’t gusto ako ng tao, hanggat may proyekto na para sa akin na gusto kong gawin—gusto ko ito. (I'm increasingly validating that this is what I really want to do until I get older. As long as they like me, as long as people like me, as long as there’s a project for me that I want to do—I want it.)"

With all she’s achieved, there remain things she’s yet to try that she’s interested in. “Gusto ko ‘yung mala-Gone Girl, may pagka-bida-kontrabida... Tsaka ‘yung parang film ni Ate V noon, Tagos Ng Dugo—‘yung may revenge at paghihiganti. I want to do a movie also—I have a brother who has a special need, who has autism. Gusto ko siguro mag-portray also ng a person with autism. (I want something like Gone Girl, with a villain-villain character... And something like Ate V's film before, Tagos Ng Dugo—something with revenge and vengeance. I want to do a movie also—I have a brother who has a special need, who has autism. I would also like to portray a person with autism.)"

All that she’s tried, the characters she’s lived out, and her substantial industry experience, Gladys stands as proof that there’s always something new to explore.

And that within every artist’s heart lies the eagerness and openness of a beginner. It’s this very spirit that explains why she’s lasted and flourished as long as she has—and continues to do so.