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Why Grae Fernandez took a break from showbiz before “Pamilya Sagrado” 

Article (news)

Liezel dela Cruz

In the dazzling world of showbiz, the name Fernandez is synonymous with exceptional talent. The Fernandez family stands as one of the most prominent clans in the industry, and the latest to uphold their legacy is none other than Grae Fernandez. Discover how he follows in the illustrious footsteps of his father and grandparents, while carving out a name for himself in his own right.Grae is currently heating up primetime with his portrayal of Justin Sagrado, the rebellious yet secretly fearful son, in the Kapamilya series &quot;<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/pamilyasagrado" target="_blank">Pamilya Sagrado</a>.&quot; He masterfully brings Justin to life, showing his deep commitment to his craft and his innate acting prowess.Locked in with the cast of &quot;<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/pamilyasagrado" target="_blank">Pamilya Sagrado</a>&quot; in Baguio for their tapings, he immerses himself fully into his role. In an episode of “Tao Po” hosted by Bernadette Sembrano, viewers were given a glimpse into Grae&#x27;s dedication when the veteran broadcast journalist visited his room during the lock-in taping.<div><iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" allowfullscreen="" frameBorder="0" height="612" referrerPolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/bRBI2-zMZd0" title="Kilalanin si Grae Fernandez at kung paano siya gumagawa ng sariling pangalan sa showbiz | Tao Po" width="1688"></iframe></div>Being roommates with Kyle Echarri, his rival in the series, has proven beneficial, as it has helped build an off-cam dynamic that significantly contributes to their effective on-screen chemistry. As Grae tours us around their room, his simplicity and dedication to fitness are evident. He brought along some fitness equipment to ensure he never misses a workout, even while away from home.According to Grae, they tape four days a week, and during their days off, he enjoys walking around or bonding with his co-stars. This blend of discipline and camaraderie not only enhances his performance but also enriches his experience on set.He is undeniably busy these days, being one of the headliners of the show. This shouldn&#x27;t come as a surprise, given that acting runs in his blood—he&#x27;s the son of one of showbiz&#x27;s original &#x27;gwapings,&#x27; Mark Anthony Fernandez, and the grandson of Alma Moreno and the late Rudy Fernandez.Being part of a showbiz clan certainly comes with its pressures, and it can sometimes go to one&#x27;s head. But what’s admirable about this young Fernadez is his strong sense of values and self-awareness. He knows who he is beyond his illustrious lineage. He understands his core, and this self-assurance is what keeps him grounded despite the demands and expectations of his celebrated heritage.“I’m at the ripe age where I know who I am. I know my unique values and traits that make Grae, Grae—not just ‘Grae Fernandez’,” he explained. He began his career as a member of Star Magic’s boy group Gimme 5 at 14, almost the same age his father entered showbiz.Grae acknowledges his privilege and the fact that his last name made it easier for him to break into the industry. However, he also admits that there are downsides to being a ‘Fernandez,’ such as the challenge of differentiating himself and establishing his own individuality apart from his famous relatives.Though his surname opened doors for him in showbiz, Grae never relied solely on his family’s fame. After being cast in &quot;<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/bridgesoflove" target="_blank">Bridges of Love</a>,&quot; where he played the young Paulo Avelino, he quickly realized that acting is his true passion. This role led to more opportunities, and he eventually matured into a ‘matinee idol.’ During the pandemic, he earned acclaim for his brilliant acting and potential in &quot;<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/angsaiyoayakin" target="_blank">Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin</a>.&quot;Despite his rising fame after &quot;<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/angsaiyoayakin" target="_blank">Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin</a>,&quot; Grae chose to step back from the limelight and pursue a degree in acting in New York. He temporarily left the scene to deepen his skills and knowledge in the craft he loves.His deep passion for acting drives him to avoid being typecast into a single role. That&#x27;s why he&#x27;s immensely grateful for the new challenge he’s been given in &quot;<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/pamilyasagrado" target="_blank">Pamilya Sagrado</a>&quot; and the opportunity to collaborate with some of the industry’s brightest gems, including his idol, Piolo Pascual.Grae is here to prove that he’s more than just his family’s name; he will carve his own path. He continually hones his acting skills because he wants to explore more. Grae is truly born to act.Catch Grae in “<a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/pamilyasagrado" target="_blank">Pamilya Sagrado</a>,” weeknights, at 8:45PM, on <a href="https://ent.abs-cbn.com/articles-news/everything-you-need-to-know-about-kapamilya-channel-12340" target="_blank">Kapamilya Channel</a>, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/abscbnentertainment" target="_blank">Kapamilya Online Live</a>, TV5, and A2Z.

Grae Fernandez gives a tour of his lock-in taping room in Baguios and opens up about the ‘downsides’ of being a 'showbiz royalty.' 