For the first time in his career, Alden Richards is stepping into a full-fledged antagonist role in the upcoming Hollywood action film ‘Big Tiger’, set for worldwide release in 2026.
Speaking at the film’s media conference on December 21, Richards admitted that playing a villain has long been one of his ultimate acting goals—something he has never done in his more than a decade in the entertainment industry.
“I’ve been a protagonist for almost a decade of my career. But the beauty I’ve been dreaming about playing this kind of role ’cause it’s been a dream of mine to be also like the bad guy in storytelling,” Richards said.
He described the experience as unfamiliar yet exciting, especially after seeing the film’s teaser.
“I have been dreaming about this, the bad guy. Iba, medyo disturbing kasi hindi ako sanay. But at the end of the day, when I saw the teaser, I think I am going to like this job,” he added.
Richards explained that portraying his character, John Lynch, required him to explore new emotional and physical territories—particularly because Big Tiger is an action-heavy film.
“There are a lot of new experiences in terms of feelings, emotions, body language. Since this is an action film, stunt preps,” he said.
According to the Kapuso star, antagonist roles offer greater creative freedom compared to traditional leading-man characters.
“Mas marami pwedeng laruin. At times the characterizations of antagonists, depending on the character, are quite eccentric and volatile. Good thing is I was guided by the director and writer,” he shared.
Richards also revealed that constant communication with the film’s writer-director, Keoni Waxman, played a crucial role in shaping his performance.
“In terms of prep, consent and communication with Direk Keoni Waxman. A lot of questions of how does he wants the character to be done and to be executed. At the same time bringing back knowledge of the previous villains that I’ve watched in the past,” he said.
Beyond acting, ‘Big Tiger’ also marks a milestone for Richards as a producer. The film is co-produced by his own company, Myriad Entertainment, alongside Lux Angeles Studios, Birns and Sawyer Studios, and Voltage Pictures.
Reflecting on the project, Richards emphasized his desire to give back to the industry and highlight Filipino talent on a global stage.
“When my team and I had an idea of creating a production company, it was centered on giving back to the industry. I’m hoping this partnership we have is an opportunity to give back to the Filipinos. For us to be proud of something we have,” he said.
“We are also able to give jobs to Filipinos and showcase their talents… nakaka-proud naman maging Pilipino because of that.”
Joining Richards in ‘Big Tiger’ are fellow Kapuso star Max Collins and Hollywood actors Byron Mann, Katherine McNamara, and Luke Goss.
Written and directed by Waxman, Big Tiger is set to hit international theaters in 2026, marking a bold new chapter for Richards as he redefines himself on the global screen—not as the hero, but as a “disturbing” and complex villain. (with reports from Rhen Mar Narte)
