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KaoMiah opens up about ‘adulting’ and how they relate to their ‘kilig’ dynamic in “Halfmates”

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Liezel dela Cruz

We’ve definitely seen the chemistry between Kaori Oinuma and Jeremiah Lisbo spark on our screens before, but trust us—this time, it’s more electrifying than ever! The secret to their on-screen connection? A genuine friendship that has blossomed off-camera, letting them be more comfortable and authentic with each other. This camaraderie is set to shine through as they navigate the ups and downs of adulting in their newest digital series, “<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/articles-news/kaori-at-jeremiah-pagbibidahan-ang-bagong-digital-romcom-series-ng-abs-cbn-na-halfmates-23529" target="_blank">Halfmates</a>,” which revolves around the charming chaos between two people forced to live in one house. Kaori plays the bubbly Dani, who worked as a nurse in New Zealand, and whose effervescent personality clashes with the serious, introverted nature of James, an accountant, portrayed by Jeremiah. During their appearance on Kapamilya Chat, Kaori and Jeremiah expressed their thrill about the series&#x27; pilot, knowing that all the hard work they’ve put into filming has truly paid off. Fans can expect the show to be a complete package—an emotional rollercoaster filled with kilig adventures for the heart. Just like in “Halfmates,” the tandem’s real-life dynamic is a delightful mix of laughter, support, and a bit of playful bickering. Kaori shared that she couldn&#x27;t stop gushing about the script the first time she read it. Then came a pinch of curiosity about who her leading man would be, considering the scenes that involved plenty of playful ‘bangayan’ between the main characters. The jitters were replaced by familiarity and excitement when she found out it was Jeremiah, since she could totally picture the two of them having the same &#x27;aso&#x27;t-pusa&#x27; rapport in real life. It felt as though their friendship would naturally blend into the story. As she delved deeper into her character, Kaori felt like she related to Dani in many ways, as both experienced being OFWs and they both live with positivity. The daunting part, though, was giving life to a character who is 29 years old, while she’s only 24 in real life. Jeremiah shared similar sentiments, expressing his excitement upon reading the script and discovering the depth of their roles, which is definitely more mature this time. For KaoMiah, reuniting for this project, a year after they last played a loveteam in the <a href="https://iwanttfc.com" target="_blank">iWantTFC</a> original series “Fractured,” brings a sense of comfort and familiarity. They’ve shared countless experiences that have significantly contributed to their growth, both as individuals and as a duo. When asked how they perceive each other now compared to before, Kaori pointed out that her partner feels &quot;lighter,&quot; while Jeremiah noted that Kaori has become more open and vulnerable. These changes are likely why they mesh so well together at this stage of their professional relationship. Their heightened professionalism has also deepened the respect they have for one another, which is now a crucial factor when it comes to executing scenes that require physical touch. As mature actors, KaoMiah now better understand the importance of consent and establishing clear boundaries so they both feel comfortable in their scenes. It&#x27;s also their friendship that creates a sense of ease when they tackle sweet moments on screen. And because they understand each other&#x27;s strengths so well, it becomes easier to collaborate. In keeping with the &quot;adulting&quot; elements of the story, which revolves around a man and a woman being scammed out of their dream house and forced to live under one roof, KaoMiah was asked about their own personal rules for navigating unfamiliar situations now that they’ve matured with age. Kaori shared that she’s become more independent when it comes to decision-making. &quot;Siguro gano&#x27;n rin ako pinalaki ng parents ko, that&#x27;s why kampante sila at ako din sa mga magiging desisyon ko sa buhay,&quot; explained Kaori, who&#x27;s learned the art of turning her mistakes into lessons. However, Kaori admitted that when the stakes are high, she doesn’t hesitate to seek advice from someone more experienced, like her mother. On the other hand, Jeremiah admitted that making life decisions isn’t always easy, as there are so many possibilities, and sometimes the future can be scary. He shared that in those moments, he lifts everything up to God and asks for wisdom. When faced with tough situations, he prays and tells the Man above that he knows he wouldn’t be given anything he couldn’t handle. At the end of the day, Jeremiah makes sure to give his all when making decisions, taking the leap and fully committing to them, &quot;At least, masasabi mo sa sarili mo na binigay mo &#x27;yung best mo sa part na &#x27;yun. Hindi man nag-work, baka hindi talaga meant to be.&quot; KaoMiah describes “<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/articles-news/kaori-at-jeremiah-pagbibidahan-ang-bagong-digital-romcom-series-ng-abs-cbn-na-halfmates-23529" target="_blank">Halfmates</a>” as both amusing and about “compromise.” Tune in to this newest kilig ser-yeah to find out why! “<a href="https://https://ent.abs-cbn.com/articles-news/kaori-at-jeremiah-pagbibidahan-ang-bagong-digital-romcom-series-ng-abs-cbn-na-halfmates-23529" target="_blank">Halfmates</a>” premiered on October 18 on the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/abscbnentertainment" target="_blank">ABS-CBN Entertainment YouTube channel</a>. Catch fresh episodes every Tuesday and Friday at 5:30 PM.

Kaori Oinuma and Jeremiah Lisbo dish on their real-life friendship and growing chemistry in 'Halfmates' 