Celebrities mourn the death of Cherie Gil: ‘Not a second-rate, not trying hard, never a copycat’

Local celebrities and personalities took to social media to express their grief over the death of Cherie Gil.

Referring to her demise as a “big loss” in the Philippine industry, they paid tribute to the seasoned actress who passed away on Friday, Aug. 5 at 59 years old. The shocking news was announced by her talent manager Annabelle Rama, which was later confirmed by Gil’s nephew, actor Sid Lucero.

Her July posts on Facebook showed she sought treatment at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York. She also revealed the surgical stitches on her shaved head in one of her photos. 

Having started her showbiz career as a singer in the early 1980s, she eventually made her way to the acting scene as a kontrabida. Her line “You’re nothing, but a second-rate trying hard copycat!” in Bituing Walang Ningning (1985) has been etched in the minds of many to this day.

Here’s how the showbiz industry reacted to the loss of the iconic villain: 

Aljhon Lucas recalled how he initially got scared to work with Gil but ended up being captivated by her kindness and love for her craft. “Napakabait ni Ms. Cherie Gil. Mahal niya ng sobra ang ginagawa niya kaya siguro nafifeel ng iba na masyado siyang seryoso,” he captioned his post. “She was something, not a second-rate, not trying hard, never a copycat.” 

Zsa Zsa Padilla reminisced about their loving memories as longtime friends. “You were always so passionate and full of life! That’s how I will always remember you, Cherie, my Gemini sister! I miss you, my beautiful friend. Until we meet again.”

Sharon Cuneta shared her last few moments in NYC with Cherie, whom she referred to as her “true screen partner” and “a true friend.” The actress said: “I cannot process it. It seems so unfair. It will never be the same without you. I will never be the same without you.” 

For her part, Barbie Forteza revealed Gil was one of the showbiz veterans who sparked her interest in acting. “Truly one of the greatest actresses of all time.” 

“We are heartbroken.” Declaring Gil’s name as “synonymous to excellent acting,” Lani Mercado said Gil “was heartbreakingly beautiful but it was the way she created and breathed life to memorable characters which drew us all in, watching her every move.” 

Edu Manzano, meanwhile, posted a photo of Gil with the caption: “We love you and will miss you my friend. Rest kaibigan.”