Ruru Madrid on acting while staying true to his faith: 'It's challenging'
By Ian Ureta
At A Glance
- Ruru Madrid opens up about the unique challenges of being an actor and a devoted Iglesia Ni Cristo member, revealing how his faith has influenced his career, the projects he has turned down, and why he has no regrets putting his beliefs first.
Ruru Madrid admits that being an actor while belonging to the Iglesia Ni Cristo (INC), one of the country's most disciplined religious organizations, comes with challenges that many of his peers never have to consider.
For Madrid, every project is more than just another acting job. It is also a decision weighed against the values of his faith, which he says has shaped both his career and the person he has become.
During his guest appearance on "Fast Talk with Boy Abunda" on Tuesday, Aug. 4, the actor acknowledged that balancing his profession with his religious commitment is not always easy.
"I'm gonna be honest, Tito Boy. Of course, it is challenging as an actor," he said.
As a public figure and an INC member, Madrid said he understands that fellow church members look up to him, making him more conscious of the characters he portrays and the messages his work sends.
Rather than seeing his faith as a restriction, however, Madrid views it as a guide.
Before accepting a role, he discusses the script with producers and directors to determine whether scenes can be adjusted when necessary. If a project raises questions, he submits a written explanation, or "salaysay," to church leaders, who generally approve it because acting is his profession.
His faith has also led him to walk away from opportunities.
Madrid revealed he has declined endorsements for alcoholic beverages and gambling because they conflict with the teachings of the Iglesia Ni Cristo.
Still, he believes faith does not prevent him from growing as an actor.
"I wouldn't say it's a limitation, kasi puwede naman po 'yun maipaalam," he explained.
As to doing intimate scenes, Madrid added that he no longer seeks permission for these, provided they are necessary to the story and handled professionally.