David Licauco admits feeling overwhelmed with newfound popularity: ''Di ko inexpect na magiging hyped'

David Licauco has stolen many hearts with his portrayal of Fidel in the hit series "Maria Clara at Ibarra."

The actor himself, however, did not expect this development at all.

"Prior to me playing the role of Fidel, 'di ko naman inexpect na 'yung role ko magiging this hyped, this big on social media," he told GMA News Online in an exclusive interview.

He admitted that he struggles with his newfound popularity, especially when he needs to go out.

"To be honest with you, medyo nahihirapan ako lumabas, kasi dati 'pag may nagpapa-picture, paisa-isa lang, but then right now medyo marami," he said.

"First time ko siya ma-experience so medyo nakakagulat and nakaka-overwhelm minsan ... Pero syempre grateful pa rin kaso ayun na nga, hindi lahat ng tao di nabibigyan ng opportunity maging artista, what more na maging part din ng isang telserye na tumatak sa buong Pilipinas," he added.

More than the fame that the show brought him, David is happy with the opportunity he received to work with veteran actors like Dennis Trillo.

"Nakikita ko kung paano siya mag-prepare, how he acts," he said. "Not just that, pati si Barbie, the rest of the cast na lahat magaling."

In “Maria Clara at Ibarra,” David plays Fidel, who netizens call the Sinaunang Red Flag, due to his sexist and classist opinions. But despite that, his tandem with Barbie Forteza’s Klay also has a loyal following because of their characters’ clashing personalities.

They star alongside Dennis Trillo, who plays Crisostomo Ibarra, and Julie Anne San Jose, who plays Maria Clara.

The show airs on GMA Telebabad on weekdays after “24 Oras.” You can also watch the Kapuso Stream on YouTube and the full episodes on the GMA Network mobile app. —JCB, GMA Integrated News