Reel to real: Hidilyn Diaz, Ayn Bernos, and other Pinoy celebs who resemble ‘Encanto’ characters
The amazing Madrigals from Encanto have put us all under their spell—including these Filipino celebrities.
We’ve seen how family, culture, and magic collide in this epic tale about a Colombian girl named Mirabel (voiced by Brooklyn Nine-Nine star Stephanie Beatriz) who attempts to save the family’s magical house, casita.
With more kids and kids-at-heart immersing in this visual treat, many netizens have taken to social media to talk about how people of color are seeing more of themselves represented in Disney’s films.
One social media post that recently made rounds on the Internet was a video of a 2-year-old black boy named Kenzo, who was ecstatic to see the character Antonio Madrigal had an uncanny resemblance with himself.
Kenzo’s parents Keith Brooks and Kaheisha Brand, who posted the photo on Instagram last Dec. 31, expressed in an interview with Good Morning America how representation in the media empowers black and brown children all over the world.
"It means the world to me, again, I didn't have the same experience growing up," Kaheisha said. "I do believe there is power in representation and it does empower young black and brown children."
True enough, everyone who sees the slightest resemblance with any Disney character will feel giddy about looking the part—even famous people!
Let’s take a look at some celebrities who could pass as the real-life Familia Madrigal:
Hidilyn Diaz
Pinay Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz recently channeled her inner Luisa Madrigal on an Instagram story, flexing her winning biceps and donning a white ruffled blouse. She wrote the caption, “Trinatry ko maging luisa madrigal kasi sabi niyo ako yun, kaso waley di Pasok make up, hair and outfit ko."
Whether in full cosplay mode or not, Diaz can just about lift donkeys in real life like the powerful Disney character!
Ayn Bernos
Filipina beauty queen Ayn Bernos has stunned us all during her Miss Universe Philippines stint. She proved her beauty queen status even more when she dressed as Isabela Madrigal.
After fans commented on TikTok how she and the prettily perfect Isabela look alike, Bernos responded by posting a clip of her magical transformation. What a “perfect golden child” indeed!
Kokoy De Santos
Gameboys star Kokoy De Santos may not have the same thick head of hair as Camilo Madrigal, but he sure does bring the same curly energy! With his bright eyes and captivating smile, he can shapeshift into your next dream bae in no time.
Pepe Herrera
We don’t talk about Bruno no no—but can we talk about Pepe Herrera's tiny resemblance to uncle Bruno Madrigal? With Herrera’s wacky personality in many of his films, he’s got nearly the same magic as his Encanto counterpart. That is, minus the visions and the talking mice.
