Liza Soberano Talks Future Roles After ‘Forgotten Island’
After lending her voice to DreamWorks’ ‘Forgotten Island’, Liza Soberano reflected on her career journey from the Philippines to the U.S., her love for nostalgic storytelling, and her desire to tackle superhero roles in the future.
By Felo News Desk · Published
Liza Soberano’s voice carried the animated heroine Raissa in DreamWorks’ latest film, Forgotten Island, a tropical adventure that echoes the actress’s own life transitions. The 28‑year‑old, who has spent the past decade juggling roles in Philippine television and recent American projects, used the movie’s release as a chance to talk about her next steps in acting and her personal growth.
From Bay Area Roots to Philippine Stardom
Born in California, Soberano spent her early childhood between the Bay Area and Visalia. She and her brother, Justin, would scavenge scrap wood from construction sites and build forts, a pastime she recalls with a mix of nostalgia and humor. “It felt like we were doing big‑kid stuff,” she said. That early imagination would later translate into a career that began in the Philippines at age 13, when she landed a leading role in the hit romantic drama Forevermore. The series drew nearly two‑thirds of Filipino viewers to its finale and cemented Soberano as a household name.
Her film work followed, with titles such as My Ex and Why and Alone/Together. In 2024 she made her American debut in Lisa Frankenstein, marking a significant expansion of her portfolio into Hollywood.
‘Forgotten Island’ and the Power of Nostalgia
In Forgotten Island, Soberano voices Raissa, a young woman who, along with her best friend Jo, travels to a mysterious tropical island. The story explores themes of memory, friendship, and the anxiety that comes with stepping into a new chapter—mirroring Soberano’s own move to the U.S. for college. The film’s release coincided with the actress’s reflection on the past few years, during which she “was taking life really seriously” and focused heavily on work. She admitted that she sometimes forgot to pause and appreciate how far she had come.
“Starring in a movie about girlhood let me remember the little kid inside,” she told Bustle. The role allowed her to reconnect with the playful spirit that defined her childhood forts and imaginative play.
Balancing Career, Culture, and Personal Growth
Beyond acting, Soberano runs Funny Face Films, a production company that prioritizes Filipino talent and stories that reveal “the truth in beauty.” Her commitment to her roots is evident in her choice of roles and her involvement in projects that showcase Filipino creatives. She also credits acting classes and coaches for honing her craft, noting that the discipline extends into her personal life. “It actually has helped me in my personal life,” she explained, citing challenges in understanding American humor during social events.
Off set, Soberano is a devoted pet owner. She lives with her Samoyed, Yuna, and three rescue cats—Mowgli, Marie, and HP, the last named after her printer because of his habit of sleeping on it. Her love for animals and her grounded lifestyle provide a counterbalance to the demands of a fast‑paced entertainment career.
Looking Ahead: Superheroes and New Horizons
After an injury halted her planned portrayal of Darna, a legendary Filipino superheroine, Soberano expressed a strong desire to return to the genre. “I did have the training for it, and I was very eager to portray a superhero but just never really had another opportunity to do so,” she said. She sees the superhero role as a natural extension of her love for empowering narratives and her experience in both Filipino and American media.
With her eyes on future projects, Soberano remains open to roles that challenge her and allow her to explore new facets of storytelling. Her journey from a child building forts to a celebrated actress in two continents exemplifies resilience and adaptability—qualities that will undoubtedly serve her well as she navigates the next chapter of her career.
What’s Next for Liza Soberano?
While the specifics of her upcoming projects are still under wraps, Soberano’s enthusiasm for superhero roles and her dedication to authentic storytelling suggest that fans can expect a mix of mainstream Hollywood releases and culturally rich Filipino productions. Her continued presence in both markets positions her as a bridge between two vibrant entertainment ecosystems.
As she balances her personal life, pet responsibilities, and a demanding career, Soberano’s story remains a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of staying true to one’s roots while embracing new opportunities.
Key facts
- Liza Soberano voiced Raissa in DreamWorks’ <em>Forgotten Island</em>
- She balances a career spanning Philippine TV and U.S. film
- Her childhood play shaped her creative outlook
- She runs Funny Face Films, spotlighting Filipino talent
- She aims to return to superhero roles after a setback
Why it matters
Soberano’s candid reflection on career transitions and her ambition to portray superheroes highlights the evolving landscape of cross‑cultural representation in film, offering inspiration to aspiring actors worldwide.
Frequently asked questions
What film did Liza Soberano voice in 2024?
She voiced the character Raissa in DreamWorks’ animated film <em>Forgotten Island</em>.
Why did she want to play a superhero?
After training for a role as Darna and facing an injury, she expressed a strong desire to portray a superhero, seeing it as an empowering narrative.
Sources
- [1] bustle.com — originally reported as “Exclusive: Liza Soberano Reveals The Role She’d Like To Explore Next”
