Rolling with the big boys. With GMA Network bigwigs, president and COO Gilberto Duavit Jr. (left) and chairman and CEO Atty. Felipe GozonWill he stay or will he go?With contract signings between talents and networks aplenty this time of year, one much awaited decision was finally revealed this week when award-winning dramatic actor Dennis Trillo renewed his contract with GMA Network for three more years.For months, there had been much speculation that Dennis, one of the biggest stars of 2013—thanks to his critically-acclaimed portrayal in the highly-controversial gay-themed series My Husband’s Lover—was considering crossing over to rival network ABS-CBN.“Yes, I won’t deny that my manager [Popoy Caritativo] and I considered their offer and took time to make our decision to stay with GMA Network. It’s a natural reaction to consider any new offer,” the handsome actor told The Manila Times. “Pero ayoko na pong mag-dig down sa mga detalye, at sasabihin ko nalang po na nag-desisyon kami na mag-renew sa GMA dahil sa pagpapahalagang ibinigay nila sa akin bilang artista.”In line with this, GMA Entertainment TV’s senior vice president Lilybeth sRasonable, announced that the network is “excited to give Dennis new projects and offer him something that will still continue his stature as a great dramatic actor.”Asked for specifics, Rasonable replied with a meaningful smile, “You will all know soon enough.”Asked whether GMA Network topped ABS-CBN’s offer in terms of compensation as well, Dennis decently acknowledged that as with any business contract, numbers are involved in the deal, but politely refused to disclose any figures.He instead pointed to the fact that he has been with GMA Network for 11 years, and as an artist would not agree to a contract that will prevent him from reaching his full potential.“I’m very proud that Kapuso pa rin ako. Excited na akong gumawa ng mga bagong shows at magtrabaho ulit. Wala na akong mahihiling pa,” he enthused. “Secured ako sa GMA dahil alam ko na hindi nila ako pababayaan bilang artista.”The Manila Times further pressed on whether the deal also guaranteed management’s ear on the kind of projects Dennis wants to do, to which he replied, “They are open to my suggestions.”Given the chance to choose his next role, the actor revealed he would like to do something “lighter” after portraying a very “heavy” role as Tom Rodriguez’ gay lover in his last teleserye.“Either that or an action project,” he added. “Sabi nila, will a lighter role make an actor shine? My answer is yes because it will show kung paano ka-versatile ang isang artista na hindi lang puro mabibigat ang kayang i-deliver. Para sa akin, pati audience ko, mapapagod sa akin kung puro heavy and serious roles lang ang gawin ko.”
