Zanjoe Marudo, the lead star of the upcoming film “How To Get Away From My Toxic Family,” has shared insights on how fatherhood has profoundly impacted both his personal life and professional choices as an actor. As he prepares for the film’s release on July 30, 2025, Marudo expresses pride in this project, describing it as one of the most meaningful roles of his career.
Fatherhood, for Marudo, signifies a new chapter in his life. Becoming a parent has shifted his perspective, guiding his approach to work and the stories he wishes to portray on screen. In a recent interview, he noted that he aims to select projects that resonate more deeply with audiences, particularly those that address relatable family dynamics, a theme prevalent in many Filipino households.
Marudo reflects on the universal traits shared by families in the Philippines, emphasizing generosity, patience, and care. He admits that while his project choices haven’t drastically changed, he now prefers stories that depict real-life situations and can offer insights or provoke discussions about societal issues.
Hailing from a successful career spanning almost two decades, Marudo took a break to embrace his new responsibilities as a father, which included engaging in parental tasks such as changing diapers and caring for his son, Sabino. He underscores the significance of these experiences, highlighting that they taught him valuable lessons alongside his wife, Ria Atayde.
To prepare for his role in the film, Marudo requested solo and group acting workshops to rejuvenate his skills and establish a natural chemistry with his co-stars. The film delves into themes such as generational trauma and toxic family patterns, making it even more essential for him to connect personally with the material.
While privacy regarding his son remains a priority, Marudo teases that fans might finally get a glimpse of Sabino during his first birthday celebrations. He confirms that this choice stems not from secrecy, but rather a desire to prioritize their family’s safety in an era where online privacy is paramount.
