To soar high! To reach for your dreams! To be able to hurdle challenges thrown your way! These are no easy feats to accomplish especially if you are a young actress in this industry called show business. Jane De Leon is no ordinary young actress. She is currently one of the very best of her generation.

By now, we all know the mantle, the throne, and the legend that Jane De Leon will soon have to bring to life once more: Darna. But do we even know anything about Jane De Leon’s humble beginnings in showbiz and her personal life? I have the answers here.

I was selected and given access by her manager to conduct this rare and exclusive one-on-one interview with Jane De Leon.

Tell me something about your childhood.

I had a normal childhood, especially during my elementary years playing and going outdoors with my childhood friends and classmates. My parents were both working when I was little. Later on, my mom used to work, and my dad at home took care of us while he attended to his small business on the side. There are only two of us children. I’m the younger and my brother is the older one.

Who wielded greater influence on you and your siblings, your father or your mother? In what way?

I would say both of them because they had, in a way, different parental styles in my growing years. My dad is a disciplinarian. My mom is my “guidance counselor,” especially when it comes to my career and love life at present.

How did you mostly spend your free time in your childhood?

I seldom stayed in the house! [Laughs] I would admit that I was kinda extroverted when I was younger. I always loved to be with my childhood friends and play with them outdoors.

What kind of television shows and movies were you exposed to as a child?

I love animated, and fantasy shows. Also wrestling! Those are the kinds of movies and TV shows I watch even until now.

What were some of your childhood wishes or dreams? Can you say that some of those are slowly coming to pass for you now? Which ones?

I just dreamt of uplifting our life as a family: having our own house and car and traveling. I remember how my mom and I used to tell each other whenever we passed by EDSA that one day I will be one of those faces to be seen in those huge billboards. And guess what? This has already happened! I have traveled already. And have my own car and a van now. Not the house yet. But that will come! Soon, I know!

Who got you into showbiz?

It was always my mom who convinced me of joining pageants and modeling. She was there with me from the very start. Also, it was in one of my modeling stints that I got discovered by a talent scout from the other network before my manager, Tyronne Escalante, saw me and brought me to Star Magic, where my showbiz journey started.

Did you have any expectations for yourself when you decided to join showbiz?

Honestly, there was none as I didn’t have any idea yet or experience when I first joined showbiz. But as I went along, I already knew what I wanted. And that’s to be able to get to the top. To be acknowledged and noticed because of my talent, skills, and hard work.

What are the seemingly insurmountable challenges you are currently encountering in this industry, and how do you overcome them?

Challenges? A lot! The pressure, bashers, and myself. I need to push myself more in preparation for my next project, which is Darna.

How many movies have you been in? Can you please mention them?

All in all, I think around five: “Guro” which is an advocacy film, “Ex With Benefits,” “The Debutantes,” “Walwal,” “The Heiress.”

What adjustments do you need to make when you do movies versus taping a primetime television series like “Ang Probinsyano”?

I really can’t compare because I normally prepare for the character assigned to me. I always focus on the execution of my role and I’m always observant in all aspects to learn more in this industry.

Who got you to join “Ang Probinsyano”? What characteristics were you told that you possess that caught their eye?

There was actually no specific audition whatsoever. But I was offered and asked if I would be willing to do this project. Of course, I was so excited and readily agreed to join “Ang Probinsyano”!

Tell me what song quickly comes to your mind which perfectly encapsulates your life’s journey thus far.

“The Climb” by Miley Cyrus. I can relate to the beautiful lyrics as it also mirrors my life and my journey, especially career-wise.