By Rachelle Siazon

With Iisa Pa Lamang replacing Lobo this July, viewers can expect a serious drama packed with a heavy dose of complications surrounding the lives of Claudine Barretto, Gabby Concepcion, and Diether Ocampo. To round out what will be the most dramatic fare on the Primetime Bida block, the light-hearted banter between Melissa Ricks and Matt Evans will strike the perfect balance with the heavier scenes.

"Yung acting namin dito is up a notch. Ipapakita namin dito yung other side of Matt and Mel," said Melissa during the cast pictorial of Iisa Pa Lamang last Tuesday night (June 24). Matt quickly agreed, "Mas mature kami dito pero andun pa rin ung kulitan namin na parang aso’t pusa."

Of course their parts in Iisa Pa Lamang are still in line with their desire to pursue bolder roles. Though the two refused to elaborate on the conflicts that they will encounter in the series, they promised to wow the viewers with the surprising twists involving their characters. "We’re lucky kasi from teenyboppers, paakyat ng paakyat and mas nacha-challenge kami sa roles namin," said Melissa.

Working with a powerhouse cast was another major break for the charming duo. When asked how they feel about rubbing elbows with such big stars, Matt excitedly replied, "Sobrang dami ko talagang natutunan sa kanila. Tapos si Sir Gabby [Concepcion] na kuya ko dito sa story, kahit hindi ko siya ka-eksena kuyang-kuya pa rin talaga yung dating niya sa akin eh. So sa isip ko ang sarap siguro niya maging kuya in real life!"