Matteo topbills 'Paraiso'

CEBUANO actor Matteo Guidicelli is taking on a much mature role in the newest Precious Hearts Romances series "Paraiso."

Matteo will play the role of Brennan, the on-screen love interest of actresses Jewel Mischel and Jessy Mendiola.

"It's daring and it will show a lot of skin. So, I'm working so hard for this project," he added.

In the show's teasers, Matteo was mostly shot with bare torso.

He said his new sport, triathlon, a combination of biking, swimming and running, helped him prepare for the role. "Triathlon really helped me to change my physical look," he said.

"I started a few months ago. Training and then Derek Lauren (Dyogi) offered to me the show Isla (initial working title), then this PHR na," he added.

In the new afternoon series, Matteo and Jessy's characters were stuck in a small and unoccupied island. They will draw strength from each and will later on, fall in love.

"Jessy and I have a great working relationship together. I feel like she's a deep person that makes me more interested in knowing her," Mateo said.

Directed by Rechie Del Carmen, Connie Macatuno, and Nico Hernandez, "Paraiso" will grace afternoon viewing starting November 5 on ABS-CBN. (Sunnex)