In a shocking turn of events, renowned actress Cherie Gil bid farewell to the world on Friday, August 5, at the age of 59. The news, conveyed by her talent manager Annabelle Rama on Facebook, was later confirmed by Gil’s nephew Sid Lucero. The showbiz industry was left in mourning, and tributes poured in from colleagues, friends, and fans.
Battle with Cancer
Cherie Gil succumbed to cancer, with her passing occurring at 5 AM on August 5 at the Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in Manhattan, New York City. Her appreciation for the cancer center, where she had been hospitalized the previous month, reflected her journey.
Amidst the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Gil relocated to New York, prioritizing her mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. In her own words, “I just had to make sure that first and foremost, my mental, emotional, spiritual states were getting the priority.” She embraced change, selling everything and venturing into a new chapter of life.
Born on May 12, 1963, as Evangeline Rose Gil EigenZmann, Cherie Gil’s contributions to Philippine cinema spanned an impressive 50 years. Known as La Primera Contravida, she received accolades at the ASEAN International Film Awards, Madrid International Film Festival, and the 42nd Gawad Urian Awards.
Her acting journey commenced at the tender age of nine, often cast as the daughter of the lead actor. A notable shift in her career came with the film “Problem Child,” courtesy of film producer Lily Monteverde. Recognized for her performance in the cult classic “Oro, Plata, Mata,” she became a household name.
Iconic Roles and Memorable Lines
Cherie Gil’s versatility shone through various roles, from being the main villain in “Bituing Walang Ningning” to her portrayals in teleseries like “Grazilda” and “Magic Payalok.” Her famous line, “You’re nothing but a second rate, trying hard copycat!” from “Bituing Walang Ningning” remains etched in the minds of her admirers.
Netizens Pay Tribute
Twitter echoed with tributes from netizens, highlighting the impact Cherie Gil had on the entertainment industry. Her demise resonated deeply, with fans expressing their grief and appreciation for her legacy.
Cherie Gil’s nephew, Sid Lucero, shared a heartfelt post on Instagram, expressing his love and emotions. Zsa Zsa Padilla, a friend and co-actor, emphasized Cherie’s passion for acting and reminisced about their shared moments on and off-screen.
Director Jose Javier Reyes reflected on the irreplaceable void left by Cherie’s efficient performances. Sharon Cuneta, a fellow actor, expressed profound sorrow, stating that Cherie Gil’s death broke her heart. Memories of their off-screen bond and the loss of many friends in recent years added to the somber sentiments.
Cherie Gil, belonging to the celebrity Eigenmann clan, was the daughter of singer-actors Rosemarie Gil and Eddie Mesa. As part of the second-generation Gil actors alongside siblings Mark Gil and Michael de Mesa, she left an indelible mark on Philippine cinema.
Survived by her husband, Rony Rogoff, and children Bianca, Raphael, and Jeremiah David, Cherie Gil’s influence extends to the next generation, with nieces and nephews like Ryan, Andi, Geoff, Max, and Gabby, who continue the family’s legacy in the entertainment industry.
In a poignant acknowledgment, Sharon Cuneta summed up the collective sentiment, expressing love for the departed actor and friend, Cherie Gil. The showbiz world bids adieu to a true icon, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for years to come.
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