Vic Sotto's reputation as a comedian and a ladies' man often paints a picture of a charismatic and confident personality who thrives in the spotlight. His quick wit, effortless charm, and towering presence have made him a beloved figure in Philippine showbiz, earning him the title "Bossing" among fans and colleagues. The revelation that he considers himself shy and reserved is a fascinating contradiction to his larger-than-life public persona.
"Shy type. Not really that sociable. I’m more of an introvert." He wasn’t kidding. He is dead serious as he looks straight at the camera. He shifts positions slightly and tells Esquire Philippines, "Maybe you won’t believe me because I’m on television and in movies. But when I’m on TV, I’m a different person. Behind the camera is a different person again."
He is one-third of the famous Tito, Vic, and Joey trio. He claims the other two are the talkers, and his job is to listen.
He and Piolo Pascual are headlining The Kingdom, which will be shown as part of this year's Metro Manila Film Festival. Sotto plays Lakan Makisig, the ruler of the fictional kingdom.
Vic Sotto as Lakan Makisig and Piolo Pascual as Sulo
It’s a serious film–not of the fantasy-comedy kind like the Enteng Kabisote franchise Sotto is known for. The actor says he was startled when director Mike Tuviera offered him the chance to portray the Lakan. There was a moment of self-doubt for the veteran actor.
"I remember when Direk Mike first talked to me about the concept, about the film, sinabi niya sa 'kin, ganito, ganyan, medyo na-shock ako. Medyo nagdalawang-isip ako kasi it’s a serious film, sabi nga ni direk, it’s a non-political political film. I was asking myself, 'Bagay ba sa ‘kin?' And another question was, 'Kaya ko ba 'to?'"
