Veteran actress and director Gina Alajar has been cast as the late Charito Solis in Darryl Yap’s upcoming biopic, ‘The Rapists of Pepsi Paloma’.
The announcement was made through Yap’s latest Facebook post, where he unveiled a poster featuring Alajar fully transformed into the iconic actress.
“Multi-awarded actress-director GINA ALAJAR steps into the role of the late screen icon Charito Solis in the upcoming film THE RAPISTS OF PEPSI PALOMA,” Yap wrote.
The film will explore the life and tragic death of Pepsi Paloma, born Delia Dueñas Smith, a sexy star who rose to fame in the 1980s. Paloma’s death in 1985 was ruled a suicide, but allegations of sexual assault by prominent figures in the entertainment industry cast a long shadow over her passing.
Charito Solis, a celebrated actress of her time, became a significant figure in Paloma’s life. The two bonded while filming the 1984 movie ‘Naked Island’ (Butil-Ulan). Solis was also among the first to visit Paloma’s remains in the morgue, showing compassion and concern when others did not claim her body. Known for her nurturing nature, Solis acted as a maternal figure to many young artists in the industry.
Aside from Gina Alajar, Mon Confiado and Shamaine Buencamino are joining the biopic as the controversial manager Rey dela Cruz and Lydia Dueñas Whitley, Pepsi’s mother respectively.
Darryl Yap first announced the project in October 2024, stating that it will mark his 17th directorial venture. The film aims to honor Pepsi Paloma’s legacy and confront the controversies surrounding her life and death.
The role of Pepsi Paloma will be played by a former child star, whose identity Yap has yet to reveal.
Gina Alajar’s portrayal of Charito Solis is already generating buzz, with many expecting a nuanced and heartfelt performance from the award-winning actress. Alajar’s extensive experience in both acting and directing is anticipated to bring depth and authenticity to the role.
