When actress Mercedes Cabral was asked on Fast Talk with Boy Abunda who she considers the sexiest women in showbiz, three names came instantly to mind: Eula Valdez, Angel Aquino, and Jennylyn Mercado.

For Mercedes, sexiness is not just about showing skin — it’s about presence and sophistication. Speaking of Jennylyn, she explained, “Ang classy eh, like very classy.”

From Indie Darling to Prime-Time Star

Before becoming known for her complex and powerful kontrabida roles on television, Mercedes first made her mark in independent cinema. Her early career was defined by fearless portrayals in daring films — performances that both opened doors and invited scrutiny.

“It’s not easy to change how people see you once they’ve put you in a box,” she admitted. “Kailangan mong i-prove talaga sa tao kung ano ang kapasidad mo bilang aktor, para malampasan ang unang tingin nila sa ‘yo.”

That need to prove herself — to go beyond the label of a “sexy star” — fueled her evolution as an actress respected for depth, nuance, and artistry.

When Art Meets Family

Mercedes has long been admired for her authenticity, but behind that strength lies a story of personal conflict. One of her earliest films, Serbis (2008), directed by Brillante Mendoza and co-starring Gina Pareño and Coco Martin, competed at the Cannes Film Festival — a milestone for Philippine cinema.

But while the world celebrated her performance, things were different at home.

“‘Yung parents ko kasi, especially my dad, I’m the only girl eh,” she recalled. “Kasalanan ko kasi hindi ko sa kanya sinabi na may makikita ka na ganito ah. It was my fault.”

Her father saw the film without warning. “So napanood niya without me knowing it,” she shared. “Pag-uwi ko from Cannes, hindi niya ako kinakausap for a month.”

Eventually, time and understanding bridged the silence. “Natanggap na rin niya,” Mercedes said softly. “Sinabi lang niya sa akin, ‘Sa susunod na gagawa ka ng pelikula at ipapapanood mo sa amin, sabihin mo kung meron para hindi ko na lang papanoorin.’”

Coming Home to TV

Now, years later, Mercedes returns to mainstream television — this time in the GMA Afternoon Prime series Hating Kapatid. The project reunites her with industry veterans Carmina Villarroel and Zoren Legaspi, alongside their children, Mavy and Cassy Legaspi, in a family drama that explores love, rivalry, and redemption.