Esnyr Ranollo, known for his quirky humor and relatable social media content, recently looked back on a pivotal moment in his early career that involved actor Donny Pangilinan.
In an interview on ‘Kuan On One’ with Melai Cantiveros, the ‘PBB: Celebrity Collab Edition’ third big placer shared how his short cameo in the 2021 DonBelle film Love is Color Blind turned into a career breakthrough — and an unexpected friendship with Donny Pangilinan and Belle Mariano.
“Akala ko scam kasi may nag-message na from Star Cinema raw. Inisip ko, ‘Itong mukhang ‘to? Kukunin ng Star Cinema?’ Kaya hindi ko pinansin,” Esnyr recalled with a laugh. “Pero noong tumawag sila tapos sinabi na sina Donny at Belle yung bida sa pelikula, nag-go agad ako.”
It was Esnyr’s first time flying to Manila and being on a movie set. When he arrived, he learned that his role was a three-second cameo — with a handkerchief over his mouth, no less. “Imagine, seven days akong nag-quarantine para magtakip ng bibig gamit panyo sa loob ng three seconds, tapos papauwiin niyo na ‘ko sa Digos?” he joked.
Adding to the pressure, his family had already told friends and relatives that he would be playing Belle Mariano’s best friend in the film. But Esnyr’s natural charm and sense of humor quickly won over the production team. Director John Leo Garcia expanded his role, and he was kept on set for a full month.
“Nasingit sina Precious at ang iba ko pang mga karakter. Mula sa tatlong segundo, na-extend ako ng isang buwan,” he said. During that time, he built friendships with the DonBelle tandem.
“Binook pa ko ni Donny ng hotel para doon mag-stay habang nasa shooting,” Esnyr revealed, saying Donny offered to help when he found out the newcomer was staying in a shared production room without a private bathroom.
His standout presence and growing rapport with the cast and crew led to more opportunities. Belle’s manager eventually took him in as a talent, leading to his inclusion in the series He’s Into Her and further solidifying his place in showbiz.
Esnyr’s story highlights the generosity behind the scenes and how even the briefest roles can open big doors — especially when met with the right attitude and support from people like Donny Pangilinan. As fans await what’s next, there’s growing excitement around a possible sitcom with fellow ‘PBB’ housemates Klarisse De Guzman, Shuvee Etrata, Will Ashley, and Mika Salamanca.
