Actor acknowledges casting debate, says performances aim to amplify, not replace, queer voices.
“We are not here to take your place.”
With the continued boom of queer cinema in the Philippines, award-winning actor and “Drags to Riches” star Christian Bables is weighing in on the ongoing debate surrounding heterosexual actors portraying LGBTQIA+ characters on screen.
During a recent media gathering, Bables spoke with radar Entertainment, expressing his deep gratitude to the queer community for embracing his portrayals.
As Bables identifies as a straight man, he appealed to audiences to view these performances as a genuine form of solidarity. He emphasized that straight actors take on these roles to amplify the community’s voice—not to take the spotlight away from it.
“Please, I hope you can allow us to be an ally for you through our craft,” he shared. “We are not here to harm you or take your place or position. But rather, we are here to further fight for the things that you’ve been fighting for.”
Despite his personal stance, Bables made it clear that he respects and fully understands the opposing sentiments of some community members who advocate for authentic casting.
Validating their concerns, he said he wholeheartedly embraces the ongoing discourse. “Kung anuman ang mga usapin doon, buong puso’t buong pagkatao kong ine-embrace ‘yon, and that’s valid,” he concluded.
In his upcoming queer comedy “Drags to Riches,” Bables plays a drag queen forced to impersonate his straight, corporate twin brother to fool their homophobic father. The film hits cinemas nationwide on June 24.
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