John Lloyd Cruz is one of the best actors of his generation. He possesses depth and his boyish charm and natural demeanor in front of the camera makes him relatable to viewers
Simply put, John Lloyd's versatility makes him well-suited to take on any role entrusted to him.
In 2017, John Lloyd surprised the industry when he decided to take an indefinite leave to focus on his personal life.
Feeling burned out and in love, John Lloyd embarked on a journey that was confusing to some fans, but fulfilling for the actor himself.
John Lloyd craved to escape the limelight, risking his fame and career in exchange for a simpler and quieter life.
He was never a hermit, though. In fact, John Lloyd would be spotted mingling with people while doing mundane routines.
Since he announced his hiatus, John Lloyd sightings have become a treat to the public either deriding the actor for “losing his way” or praising him for having the courage to walk away from the spotlight.
One thing was clear though: John Lloyd felt he needed a break and took a leap of faith to make it happen.
Now, John Lloyd is staging a comeback and will do so with help from Wowowin host Willie Revillame and GMA Network.
But before we officially welcome back John Lloyd Cruz the celebrity, let's look back at John Lloyd Cruz the ordinary Juan, and his life away from showbiz.
The actor was photographed riding a jeepney during his hiatus. One of the pictures saw John Lloyd aboard a UP Ikot jeep inside the University of the Philippines Diliman campus.
Who needs an expensive haircut when you can get one for only P40? That's what John Lloyd did while in Cebu and he looked happy with the result.
John Lloyd was photographed many times enjoying a hearty meal of fishballs. It is safe to assume that the humble fishball is John Lloyd's favorite street food.
John Lloyd was seen inside a public market in Cebu.
John Lloyd found out that living a simple lifestyle is feasible. But he also discovered that his celebrity persona is inescapable and he will continue to attract attention and large crowds wherever he goes.
The provincial lifestyle suited John Lloyd's desire for simplicity and tranquility.
He is seen here in El Nido, Palawan looking relaxed and happy.
John Lloyd was photographed buying durian at a fruit stand in Pasig in 2018. He and Ellen Adarna were still very much together at the time.
“A sweet and handsome guy drop by at our store to buy fresh durian for Ms. Ellen Adarna,” the fruit stand posted on Facebook.
John Lloyd also watched intently how the vendors opened the fruit.
The multi-awarded actor was caught eating balut with comedian Jun Sabayton.
John Lloyd found time as well to hang out with artist friends including actor Ronnie Lazaro and singer-songwriter Dong Abay of the '90s band, Yano. This photo was taken at The 70s Bistro.
More importantly, John Lloyd's break from show business afforded him more time to spend with his son, Elias.
The father and son were in Cebu when this picture was taken and uploaded by Father Tito Caluag on Instagram.
John Lloyd was reportedly dabbling into tech entrepreneurship through an app designed for tricycle drivers.
He was photographed in February explaining the project to Mayor Rommel Gecolea and other authorities in Cabuyao, Laguna.