Beyond the familiar face of the actor we recognize, there’s a whole spectrum of Grae Fernandez waiting to unfold
This is an excerpt from MEGA’s February 2024 Issue
In the dimly lit studio, Grae Fernandez arrives with an air of quiet confidence, clad in a crisp white shirt, snug jeans, and the kind of black Chelsea boots that scream sophistication. Tall and effortlessly attractive, Fernandez’s gaze is both intense and inviting, a dichotomy that sets the stage for his return from New York. Having spent over a year at the prestigious Stella Adler Studio of Acting, he brings with him a refined charm that is impossible to ignore.
Punctual to the minute for the post-holiday Monday morning shoot, Fernandez effortlessly carries the weight of over a decade in the industry on his shoulders, a legacy inherited from his illustrious family of celebrities—his grandfather, late actor Rudy Fernandez, and his father, actor Mark Anthony Fernandez. Some of his notable projects include Pangako Sa’yo, Bridges of Love, and Ikaw Lang Ang Iibigin, along with being one of the members of Star Magic’s now defunct, Gimme 5.
As the lens captures his presence, it’s evident that Fernandez is ready to reclaim the spotlight and sweep the industry off its feet.
RELATED: Grae Fernandez is Back in Front of the Camera to Tell His Own Story
Living in the concrete jungle
During his time in New York, Fernandez navigated a demanding academic life while being laser-focus on his goals. “Mostly focused on school, I had little time to deviate from main goals,” he admits, highlighting his commitment to his craft.
During his rare breaks, Fernandez would engage with activities aligned with his artistic pursuits, such as immersing himself in theater and films. Outside his creative endeavor, Fernandez found solace in the company of friends. “Spending time with my friends is always a breath of fresh air and makes me feel calm and relaxed,” he shares.
His creative circle, composed of friends passionate about storytelling, became a hub for spontaneity and experimentation. In these collaborative moments, Fernandez discovered the joy of creative endeavors, emphasizing, “You learn so much from one another, and that is where any kind of magic comes from.”
Collaborating with like-minded friends who are deeply passionate about storytelling became a cornerstone of his creative journey. “I would get together with some of my friends who are also very interested in storytelling,” the 22-year-old actor says. “There we would share ideas about what there is to express and how to do so.”
Passion for acting
For Fernandez, the pursuit of acting articulates his fascination with human life and its complexities. “I am very curious about life,” he shares. “I believe that stories are very important to us as people. We need them to feel and understand why we go through things.”
Admitting that he believes that he is still on the early stages of his creative journey, Fernandez shares that he is just enjoying the process, viewing it as a continuous learning curve. “My main goal is just to learn with every moment and, as a result, become a better person and artist,” he reflects.
With a philosophy grounded in the acceptance of trial and error, he underscores the importance of being open, striving, and being present in the moment as essential elements for personal growth and artistic maturation.
Discover the secrets behind Grae Fernandez’s self-care practices and his commitment to perfecting his art in the pages of MEGA’s February 2024 issue, now available on Readly, Magzter, Press Reader and Zinio.
Text JAYMAR AQUINO and LAURD SALEN
Photography JERICK SANCHEZ
Creative Direction BRIEN VENTURA
Grooming AIMEE GREY
Sittings Editor LAURD SALEN
