Commencing the MEGA Man to Watch series, Grae Fernandez steps into focus, prepared to showcase that his path in the industry is a product of genuine earning
On January 8th, we gathered the MEGA Man to Watch trio for the year. Leading the pack was Grae Fernandez, who stepped onto the set with a quiet demeanor that slowly unraveled throughout our conversation. The 22-year-old actor opened up about his career’s beginnings and its future trajectory, generously sharing glimpses into his personality. Just as we wrapped up the shoot, Fernandez surprised us by showing his collection of books for MEGA’s Youtube channel—a delightful revelation, shedding light on yet another side of him.
The early act
Starting out as a member of Gimme 5 in 2013, Grae Fernandez embarked on his career journey at a young age. Reflecting on the road he’s traveled since then, the actor opens up about his deep-seated passion for performing. Taking us back to his grade school days, he paints a picture of his first choir performance, where, in his own words, he felt like a “rockstar.”
Fast forward to August 2014, and Fernandez took a leap into the world of acting with a role in “Perfecto,” an episode within the fantasy-drama comedy anthology Wansapanataym. This marked the initial step that paved the way for a series of acting gigs. “I just fell in love with acting,” he shares, encapsulating the heart of a thriving career now spanning over a decade.
Crafting commitment
“I love creating stories,” Fernandez affirms when describing his identity as an actor. To him, acting goes beyond the mere recitation of lines or showing up on set. Breathing life into characters is a beautiful form of storytelling. Demonstrating his commitment to his craft, the 22-year-old took a hiatus from showbiz in 2022 to study acting at the Stella Adler Studio in New York. Reflecting on this experience, he notes how it significantly contributed to his growth both as an actor and as an individual. Grateful for the connections made in New York, where like-minded individuals shared his dedication to film and storytelling, Fernandez returns to the Philippines with a renewed commitment to learning and evolving in his chosen craft.
“Growth as an actor is synonymous with growth as a human being.”
The most important principle that Grae Fernandez took away from his experience studying in New York
Return to spotlight
In 2021, Fernandez wrapped up his stint with ABS-CBN on Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin before heading overseas. Following a brief break, he recently staged his return, joining the cast of the hit series Senior High. Initially daunting, he found comfort in the company of familiar faces—colleagues like Andrea Brillantes and JK Labajo, with whom he had previously worked with on Pangako Sa’yo. Admitting to feeling a bit rusty after a two-year hiatus from the screen, Fernandez appreciates the warmth and encouragement extended by the show’s team, making his comeback a welcoming experience.
Bearing their legacy
Hailing from a lineage of esteemed actors, with Rudy Fernandez as his grandfather and Mark Anthony Fernandez as his father, one might think that breaking into showbiz was a breeze for him, much like other celebrity offspring. In an honest admission, the young actor says, “I think it’s accurate in some ways.” Acknowledging the doors that easily swung open, especially in the beginning, he highlights a less-known aspect—while there are advantages, it also brings an extra load of pressure for someone like him. More eyes await his next move, and a greater audience anticipates him to prove his worthiness in the spotlight.
When asked about dealing with the pressure that comes with his situation, he straightforwardly shares that, even if it sounds a bit cliché, staying true to himself is what he sees as the most effective approach. He expounds that other people may dictate how you should behave, from your actions to the way you present yourself, but in his view, as long as you are confident you’re on the right path and striving to get better, you shouldn’t shy away from writing and steering your own narrative.
Writing the next act
The path ahead holds great promise for the young actor as he readies himself to join the cast of the forthcoming action family drama series, Pamilya Sagrado, alongside Kyle Echarri and Piolo Pascual. Offering a glimpse into the thrill, he hints at a series of workshops and physical training sessions lined up for him. Grateful for the ample time dedicated to personal growth and character development prior to filming, Fernandez appreciates the intentional and thorough approach to the creative process of the team. Intriguingly, our conversation wraps up with him sharing that he’s trying his hand at writing a story, showcasing his deep affinity for storytelling and leaving us with the anticipation of more to come from him.
To discover who made it to the MEGA Man To Watch 2024 list, click here.
Photography JERICK SANCHEZ
Art Director ANDREW ENCAPAS
Grooming AIMEE GREY (Grae and Santino) and KIM ROY OPOG (Diego)
Hair CHINO MANIQUIZ (Grae)
Styling DAVID MILAN
Photography Assistant BRYLE ALBANO and KARL RIMANDO
Sittings Editor MIA CASTRO and LAURD SALEN
Shoot Coordination JOANA FERNANDO
Video Producer REGINA ACERON
Videography EXCEL PANLAQUE
