Ruru Madrid opens up on being an Iglesia Ni Cristo actor

Ruru Madrid is a proud member of the Iglesia Ni Cristo and on "Fast Talk with Boy Abunda" Tuesday, he was asked if that has limited the roles he can portray.

"I'm gonna be honest, Tito Boy. Of course, it is challenging as an actor," Ruru said in Filipino.

He explained that, beyond performing, he is aware that many people, including fellow Iglesia ni Cristo members, look up to him, making him more mindful of the projects he takes on.

Ruru also takes extra steps before taking on a project, like talking with the production team and the directors about what can be avoided.

"But I wouldn't say it's a limitation, kasi pwede naman po ‘yun maipaalam,” Ruru said.

The actor admitted he has turned down several opportunities because of his faith, including endorsements for alcoholic beverages and gambling, saying these are not allowed in his religion.

When asked whether he could portray characters from other religions, Ruru recalled working on the unreleased film “Los Salvajes Bravos” where his character underwent Catholic baptism.

“Ang story po niya, Tito Boy, kami po yung mga dinala na mga Pilipino o mga Igorot na dinala po sa Spain during the 18th Congress,” he explained.

[The story was about us Filipinos or Igorots who were brought to Spain during the 18th century]

“And during that time, Iglesia Ni Cristo did not exist yet," he continued in Filipino, adding there isn't an issue about portraying a character who lived before INC was established.

According to the Sparkle star, he usually submits a written explanation, or "salaysay," to the church whenever a project requires clarification regarding his role. These are generally approved because acting is his profession.

As for romantic scenes, he no longer seeks approval for kissing or love scenes as long as they are done within the context of the story.

"Actually, I don’t usually ask permission for these kinds of scenes anymore because I think they understand that these are things actors regularly do," he said, adding he doesn't want to limit himself especially during a time when he is in an "era of expansion."

Aside from “Los Salvajes Bravos,” Ruru is set to star in the Cinemalaya 2026 film “Hand of God.” — LA, GMA News