Bela Padilla almost lost defining role — fate had other plans

After eight long years, 100 Tula Para Kay Stella is finally getting its much-awaited sequel, 100 Awit Para Kay Stella, bringing back the iconic duo of Bela Padilla and JC Santos to the big screen. But in an exclusive interview, Bela revealed a surprising twist: she almost didn’t return as Stella.

“Dapat gagawin na namin itong sequel tapos nagka-pandemic,” she recalled. “Pumunta ako sa London, tapos nag-message sila sa akin na magpu-push thru na ang project at di na ako gaganap as Stella.”

It was a gut-punch for fans who couldn’t imagine anyone else playing the fierce and vulnerable “girl with black lipstick.” Fortunately, fate—and the filmmakers—had a change of heart.

“Pero di rin natuloy ‘yun. They decided to wait for me—and eto na nga, natuloy na after eight years,” Bela shared with a smile.

Now, with 100 Awit Para Kay Stella set to premiere on September 10, 2025, audiences will once again witness the bittersweet story of Stella and Fidel—proof that some roles, and some loves, are truly worth waiting for.