Pepsi Paloma's Life in Photos
Pepsi Paloma's legacy has long been tied to her rape case and the details surrounding her death. But, there was much more to the '80s Softdrink Beauty than that. Here, we remember the actress and the life that she led in photos.
More: There's No Escaping the Ghost of Pepsi Paloma on the Internet
Introduction to Film
Pepsi Paloma was born Delia Dueñas Smith in Borac, Northern Samar in 1966. At 14 years old, she was discovered by a talent scout and she subsequently made her debut in Brown Emmanuelle.
Softdrink Beauty
Paloma got her stage name from talent manager Rey dela Cruz, who put together starlets including Sarsi Emmanuelle, Coca Nicolas, and Myra "Mirinda" Manibog in a group called Softdrinks Beauties.
More: Where Are They Now: Pepsi Paloma and the Other 'Softdrink Beauties' of the '80s
Rising Star
Shortly after making her debut, Paloma starred in a string of films: Krus sa Bawa't Punglo, The Victim, and more.
The Rape Case
In 1982, Paloma went public with the now infamous rape case along with fellow actress Guada Guarin. For reasons shrouded in mystery, the rape case was soon dropped in exchange for a public apology.
A Tragic Character
After the whole ordeal, the actress starred in The Victim—playing a woman who had been taken advantage of.
Break from Film
The following year, the actress' only acting credit was in 1983's Suicide Mama.
The Year of Pepsi Paloma
Her "hiatus" wasn't for long. In 1984, she starred in four films: Naked Island, Virgin People, Matukso kaya ang Anghel?, and Snake Sisters.
Her Final Role
Paloma's final appearance was in Artemio Marquez's Room 69 as Betty.
A Tragic End
On May 31, 1985, after previous suicide attempts, Paloma was found dead in her apartment after taking her own life. She is said to have written in her suicide note: "This is a crazy planets."
Remembering Pepsi Paloma
The news of Paloma's death shocked the Philippines and spurred all sorts of speculation. As the star of nine motion pictures within four years, her success had seemed to be inevitable. 35 years later, her tragic story of her life and death continues to be showbiz lore.
