Sam Milby deals with inner struggles in ‘A Family Affair’

CEBU, Philippines —  Ivana Alawi was up for juicy revelations during the global media conference of ABS-CBN’s drama series “A Family Affair” when she admitted to having had the biggest crush on one of the hottest Kapamilya leading man and her co-star, Sam Milby. Which was why in a solo virtual interview, Sam was asked what he thought of his leading lady’s confession.

“I was surprised. It’s very flattering to know that Ivana used to have a crush on me. I haven’t felt it obviously. I just learned about it during the mediacon,” the 38-year-old actor said.

Sam disclosed that there was nary a dull moment on set with the YouTube superstar, describing her not only as generous and hardworking, but playful as well. Responding to a query if he found Ivana appealing, the Fil-Am star that while her beauty is obvious, her wit, humility, generosity and dedication to work prove that she isn’t merely relying on her physical attributes.

He said his role as Dave in “A Family Affair” is a deviation from previous portrayals since the character harbors inner struggles and family obligations. He will also keep audiences guessing whether he is our heroine’s friend of foe.

“The characters I have portrayed in the past were straightforward. Here, Dave places a premium on the family. He is the eldest among the siblings. His inner struggle sets him apart from the other characters I’ve created in the past,” said Sam.

“I feel like he does represent those that are left with the hard choice of choosing to love or protecting the family. I think a lot of people would be able to relate to that.”

According to the show’s creative manager Jay Fernando, Sam’s character was meant to show that like romantic love, familial love also has its limits.

“A Family Affair” follows the life of Cherry Red (Ivana) who was adopted by the Estrellas. During her stay in the mansion, she forms unique relationships with the Estrella brothers, particularly with Dave (Sam), her first love, and Paco (Gerald), her fiancé. Her relationship with the Estrella brothers eventually unveils truths and lies regarding her past.

But Fernando said this is not the typical love triangle as it offers an equally heavy suspense-filled and dramatic storyline.

“Whenever we are asked how we describe the show, it’s a hybrid of suspense and a family drama. It’s more than just the love triangle, it’s more than just four men fighting over a woman. It’s something that we have not given our audiences because it’s a different hybrid,” Fernando stated.

Directed by Jerome Pobocan and Raymond Ocampo, the series also stars Aya Fernandez, Edu Manzano, Rans Rifol, Heaven Peralejo, among others.

Sam, who is in a relationship with Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray, admitted that he talked to the beauty queen about his steamy scenes with Ivana. It turned out to be an easy discussion.

“She understood even if she is not an actress. We talked and she’s just very understanding, and I think that’s hard to find with someone who is not in the business. She is not jealous, just understanding, and the trust is there. I’m thankful that I have someone like that,” said Sam.

When his 2021 series “Ang Sayo Ay Akin” wrapped in March 2021, Sam and Catriona embarked on a trip to Africa. What was supposed to be an enjoyable time took a sorrowful turn for Sam when he received news that his father had dementia caused by Alzheimer’s.

“He acts like he knows me, but I can see in his eyes that he is just trying to be polite, and I could tell that he does not know me,” he recalled.

In November of last year, the actor endured another punch to gut with the death of his dad. “It has been a lot to take in,” said Sam. “I guess in terms of growth, it’s hard because I’m still in the process. Even though I was there when he died and I witnessed everything, I feel like I’m still in denial about what happened. I’m still going through a lot of that at the moment.”

“A Family Affair” airs at 9:20 pm from Monday to Friday at the Kapamilya channel, Kapamilya Online Live, A2Z, Jeepney TV, TFC IPTV, and TV5. It can also be streamed in advance on iWantTFC. - Syril Gemida, CNU Intern