Sexy star Yen Durano recently shared her emotional journey in a candid interview about her relationship with her father, actor DJ Durano, and her experience preparing for her challenging new role in ‘Celestina: Burlesk Dancer.’
The conversation took place after the press conference for her upcoming film, in which Yen stars as a burlesque dancer in the 1940s.
When asked if she would support her father’s campaign for mayor of Sogod, Cebu, Yen initially responded that it would depend on the type of support needed. However, she became emotional as she revealed how her relationship with her father had become complicated over time.
“Medyo nag-drift kasi kami ng dad ko over the years kasi may iba siyang family,” Yen shared, adding that this distance has been difficult as she grew up a “daddy’s girl.”
Though their relationship has changed, Yen expressed her love and respect for her father. “I love him, I love my dad very much,” she affirmed, noting that she finds it challenging to discuss their situation openly.
Yen also discussed her excitement and challenges in taking on the title role in ‘Celestina: Burlesk Dancer,’ her second movie with Vivamax to be screened in theaters. “Definitely, I felt a lot of pressure pero I tried to remain calm,” she said, “Very supportive naman yung environment ko, from Direk to the prod team, glam team, hanggang utility. Everyone was very supportive even my manager.” She described the challenges of learning period-appropriate Tagalog lines and performing burlesque scenes.
Reflecting on her role, Yen said she aimed to shed light on the complexity of the “sexy actress” profession, often misunderstood by the public. “People think kasi na por que Vivamax, ‘Ah, maghuhubad, madali lang ‘yan.’ Pero it’s not. When I take my clothes off, it has to mean something. So, for me to do that, I agree with the reasoning behind the story. Ayun, hindi talaga siya madali,” she explained. She added that portraying a burlesque dancer felt empowering, as it represents strength, especially in a time when such work was socially criticized.
Directed by Mac Alejandre and written by National Artist Ricky Lee, ‘Celestina: Burlesk Dancer’ premieres in theaters on December 4, promising an in-depth look at complex characters and themes of resilience.
