We were often taught to let ourselves just float, embracing the twists and turns as a quiet stream of possibilities unfolds. Sometimes, in the subtle act of floating, we find our way to destinations we didn’t plan but were meant to explore.
For someone as promising as the young Kapuso actor Michael Sager, having this kind of mindset enabled him to do things he didn’t even know he could.
Diving into his “artista” pursuits blindsided the Filipino-Canadian talent. From behind-the-scenes joy on Canadian productions to a backup role in Disney’s Descendants, the unexpected path became a gateway to opportunities he never saw coming.
Then his passion, undeniably fervent, propelled him forward. Like any artist eager to push boundaries, the “Luv Is: Caught in His Arms” actor welcomed the exploration of various possibilities for personal and professional growth down the stream.
“I have never been someone who remains stagnant,” 21-year-old Michael shares, “so I look forward to keep pushing myself and to do things that I didn’t even know were possible.”
Moving from one country to another marks a substantial cultural shift, particularly when delving into the intricate world of the Philippine entertainment scene. Despite the early exposure to the Filipino way of life instilled by his parents, returning posed another set of challenges as he needed to navigate and assimilate into the local practices within the industry.
“I had to start over,” he declares, talking about building new connections and the complexities of beginning anew.
Yet, finding comfort in the companionship of friends can make the process more manageable. Among these, the “Abot Kamay na Pangarap” actor acknowledges Zephanie as one of the first.
“Zephanie showed me her strong commitment to her craft and I truly admire her passion—that inspired me especially being new to the industry, so I appreciate her friendship.”
Having a friend like Zephanie has reminded him of the importance of genuine connections in the middle of changes and new beginnings.
With an artistic vision, he anticipates the next five years as a continuous exploration of his creativity, irrespective of its evolving forms as he hopes “to make a lasting impact in people’s lives.”
For Michael Sager, the decision to move back to the Philippines to chase his dreams wasn’t really about a spur of the moment decision, but rather a gentle surrender to the flow of life, where challenges become openings, and the journey holds the promise of unexpected discoveries.
And look where that stream led him to? The next leading man of this generation to look out for.
Fun questions
Q. Favorite Disney character
Michael: “Olaf”
Q. Your all-time comfort movie
Michael: “White Chicks”
Q. Ideal Valentine’s date
Michael: “Ice skating on a frozen lake”
Q. If you could have a Valentine’s Day date anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Michael: “Switzerland”
Q. If you could be any dessert, what would you be?
Michael: “Taho!”
Q. Give a pick-up line
Michael: “Camera ka ba? Because everytime I see you, I smile :)”
Q. Your birthday wish
Michael: “To create more memories with the people I love”
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Photography by Rxandy Capinpin
Styling by Edrick Paz and Ryebread
Ensemble from Viktor Manila
Grooming by Mycke Arcano
Assisted by Jam Jacobe
Words and Interview by Hans Ethan Carbonilla
Special thanks to Cornerstone, GMA Sparkle, and Ino Caluza