Kira Balinger Calls Julie Vega Role in KMJS Halloween Special an Honor
Kapamilya actress Kira Balinger is thanking viewers after her portrayal of the late Julie Vega in the “Gabi ng Lagim” Halloween special of “Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho” (KMJS) drew praise online, with many pointing out how much she resembles the 1980s star, ABS-CBN News reported.
In an Instagram post sharing behind-the-scenes photos from the shoot, Kira said she was “absolutely over the moon” when the offer came. She explained that people have long told her she looks like Julie, and that being compared to the actress remembered as the “Princess of Soap Operas” was already an honor in itself.
“I honestly can’t put into words how grateful I am to have been given the opportunity to portray a part of her life. It’s an experience I’ll hold close to my heart,” she wrote, before thanking KMJS and everyone who watched and shared kind words about her performance, GMA Entertainment also noted.
The episode, titled “The Mysterious Case of Julie Vega” and directed by Kenneth Dagatan, revisited the actress’s life and her role as a possessed girl in “Lovingly Yours, Helen: The Movie,” her final film. It also looked back at stories of alleged strange incidents on the set that many have linked to her death, according to GMA News. Julie died on May 6, 1985, at just 16 years old. Her brother has also set the record straight on the long-running “sanib” rumors.
Netizens flooded social media with compliments, saying Kira captured Julie’s movements and acting style. Some fans even said she suits the horror genre and hoped to see her headline a horror series or a possible biopic of the late star.
On X, Kira also thanked those who tuned in, calling the project “a memorable one indeed.” An extended producer’s cut of the episode is available on the KMJS YouTube channel. Kira currently appears in the Kapamilya series “The Loyalty Game” with Jericho Rosales, Janine Gutierrez, Sofia Andres and Charlie Dizon.
For a young actress, stepping into the shoes of a beloved star gone too soon is no small task, and for many viewers, Kira did it with respect and heart.
