Today, February 17 is the birthday of the late Kapamilya actor, AJ Perez. Born Antonello Joseph "AJ" Sarte Perez, AJ could have been one of the most respected actors of his generation if not for his untimely death.
AJ was part of Star Magic Batch 13 and his first regular show in ABS-CBN was the youth-oriented series Abt Ur Luv way back in 2006 where he is teamed up with Lauren Young. His career eventually grow and he was casted in several shows and movies such as Kasal, Kasali, Kasalo, Sakal, Sakali, Saklolo, BFF, ANg Tanging Pamilya, Babe, I Love You and Mammarazi. He also star in one of the episodes of Star Cinema's Cinco, a horror film with 5 different stories.
In 2008, AJ became part of the original 'Gigger Boys' group along with members Robi Domingo, Dino Imperial, Chris Guttierez, Arron Villaflor, Sam Concepcion and Enchong Dee. The group also had their Your Song series entitled Boystown.
His biggest break in television came to be his team up with Jessy Mendiola in Sabel way back in 2010 where he played a leading role.
AJ's last TV appearance was the episode 'Tsinelas' in MMK along with Bugoy Carino where the two played brothers who walked their way from Manila to Catbalogan, Samar. The said episode was aired after AJ's death.
It was April 17, 2011 when AJ met an accident in Tarlac on their way home after a show at Dagupan, Pangasinan. AJ was the only casualty among the 5 passengers of the ABS-CBN van, including AJ's father. He was 18 at the time of his death.
Ten months have passed after his untimely death but his memory will be remembered forever. A model youth who was able to juggle studies and work, a loving brother and son and most especially, an idol of his age. We can say that 18 years is short for a man to live but for AJ, 18 years was just enough to create an etch in everyone's heart.
Photo courtesy of Push
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