Las Vegas recently lit up with more than just its iconic neon lights as the world premiere of Maid to Shine brought a heartwarming glow to Filipino Town. Produced by FilAmTV Network and hosted by VegasVibes Junction’s very own Esmeralda Padilla Gould, the event celebrated authentic Filipino American stories. At its emotional core were the series’ stars, the real-life couple Alexis Aubrey and Jojo Riguerra.
In an intimate VegasVibes Junction interview, Esmeralda explored the heartfelt journey of bringing Maid to Shine to life, highlighting powerful Filipino American stories that touch on love, identity, resilience, and the captivating performances that make the series resonate.
Alexis Aubrey, an international performer, hadn’t envisioned returning to acting after a decade away. Yet, when director Giovannie Espiritu introduced her to the character Elena—a role embodying the quiet strength of many Filipina women—Alexis felt an immediate connection. “I just see the heart of Elena. And I feel like every Filipina can actually relate to Elena,” Alexis shared warmly. “I wasn’t sure if I can make it. I have no plans of going back to acting, but when I read the description, I was like, I think I can do it.”
Her partner, Jojo Riguerra, famous for playing iconic “contrabida” roles in Philippine television, shared similar sentiments. Although accustomed to the spotlight, it was portraying Gabriel’s emotional depth that challenged him profoundly. “Being Gabriel as a pop star wasn’t really challenging because I’ve lived the spotlight. What was challenging for me is the deep side of Gabriel,” he admitted.
Audiences are drawn into Jojo and Alexis’s genuine chemistry, which shines not only in their performances but in how they support each other in everyday life. They practiced lines while driving, leaned on each other during challenging moments, and balanced their roles as partners, parents, and co-stars.
Their story as immigrants is equally touching. What started as a family vacation to Disneyland became a life-changing decision to settle in the U.S. “When we first moved into our first apartment, we only had five sets of clothes and nothing to eat,” Alexis recalls emotionally. “It was really humbling. There were times that I would cry and think, let’s just go back home. But we thought about our kids and knew this was for them.” Now, with three children, their journey beautifully symbolizes the Filipino spirit of resilience and humility.
Maid to Shine isn’t simply another drama—it’s a love letter to the Filipino American community. Jojo and Alexis stress how important authentic Filipino American storytelling is. “For the first time ever, our voices, our story as Filipinos here in the land of America will be heard by everyone,” Jojo proudly expressed. “It will be translated into multiple languages, starting with Bahasa. That’s powerful.”
The couple credits their faith, heritage, and the strength of their community for their continued success. Jojo is currently training at the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Academy, preparing for a new chapter serving the community, while Alexis dreams of someday sharing the screen with their children.
Reflecting on the series, Esmeralda Padilla Gould shared, “Maid to Shine mirrors many of our personal journeys. It speaks directly to sacrifice, hope, identity, and love in all its beautiful forms.”
With the successful premiere behind them and upcoming streaming releases on Amazon Prime and Viva, Jojo and Alexis are proudly shaping a vibrant new narrative for Filipino American creatives—a narrative that declares: our stories matter, our voices count, and each one of us is made to shine.
Stay inspired, stay connected, and keep reaching for your dreams.
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