Following the departure of Liza Soberano from ABS-CBN’s most recent iteration of Darna is the studio’s assurance that the project will continue to push through. In fact, their statement on the development already promises that they have “started the selection process for the new actress who will bring the iconic character to life on the big screen.”
(Direk Erik Matti leaves ‘Darna,’ Jerrold Tarog takes over as new director)
Soberano, unfortunately, had to withdraw from the project due to health complications. She pointed to her finger fracture as limiting her physical abilities on set, especially with regards to action stunts.
Since she will still be needing a third surgery and extended therapy, it was “deemed best for Liza not to pursue the project as the injury shall hamper her from effectively doing the movie stunts required.”
READ: Official statement of ABS-CBN and Star Cinema on Liza Soberano's personal decision to withdraw from the Darna Project. | via @mjfelipe pic.twitter.com/GyALbf5K3i
— ABS-CBN News (@ABSCBNNews) April 4, 2019
But, the show must go on! The first question on everyone’s mind upon hearing the news: who is going to be the next Darna? Many immediately talked about Angel Locsin taking up the mantle once again but Locsin had previously backed out of the project due to health concerns as well. Other popular choices amongst netizens are Pia Wurtzbach, Nadine Lustre, and Maja Salvador.
Even Lea Salonga weighed in on the casting choices:
So, what would I love to see as Darna? Someone morena or kayumanggi to represent the darker skinned Pinays to let them know they are powerful and beautiful exactly as they are. I’d also love for her to be a relative unknown. Let the story sell the film. That is all.
— Lea Salonga (@MsLeaSalonga) April 5, 2019
(Artists are posting their “Darna” art on the internet and they’re so beautiful!)
What do you think — who should play our next Darna?
