Being called the ‘Sample King’ and known for playing some of the most intimidating on-screen villains, Jhong Hilario sure has this 'macho' image going for him. But in reality, especially when he's at home, the 'angas' is pruned down to reveal the loving, cheesy, hands-on dad behind it.
For six days a week, Jhong takes on his hosting duties on "It's Showtime," and often takes on demanding roles in teleseryes and movies, but the one job he definitely treasures the most is that of being a dad.
Five years into fatherhood, Jhong shares palpable closeness with his unica hija Sarina Oceania Hilario, for which he deserves credit, thanks to his effort to build a solid foundation of their father-daughter relationship despite his busy schedule. His devotion to Sarina is evident in their online content, which reveals how much Daddy Jhong finds bliss in their simple activities together, such as their dance sessions.
Yup, Sarina definitely got her daddy's moves! But are we even surprised? The apple doesn't fall far from the tree. Besides, with how much time they spend together, it's no wonder his dance skills have rubbed off on her.
Sarina's growing reputation as a little ‘Sample Princess’ is actually Jhong's proudest dad achievement. He's happy to have passed on his gift to her, which feels extra special knowing it allows her to make people happy.
But dancing isn't their only bonding activity. Jhong shared with ABS-CBN Studios that they also spend quality time reading bedtime stories and playing together.
For Jhong, being a dad is truly life-changing. “Naging successful naman tayo sa pagiging Streetboys, actor, naging regular tayo sa 'It’s Showtime' bilang host at marami tayong napapasang ordinansa, pero ang pinakakukumpleto talaga sa buhay ko ay ang pagiging tatay," he said during an interview on the Kapamilya morning talk show “Magandang Buhay.”
And he’s proof that it doesn’t take much to be a happy family man. Just a slow day at home with Sarina is more than enough, and he wouldn’t trade these simple moments for anything. Happy Father's Day, Jhong!
Catch the 'Sample King' on "It's Showtime," airing Mondays to Saturdays, 12 NN, on ABS-CBN sa ALLTV2, GMA 7, A2Z, Kapamilya Online Live (KOL) and iWant.
Jhong Hilario’s evolution as an actor: From early TV stints to noteworthy villain roles
Sarina, bumawi sa tanong na “POGI BA SI DADDY?” | It’s Showtime
MAGPASIKAT LEVEL! Jhong’s birthday performance with Sarina | It’s Showtime
Behind-The-Scenes: Sarina’s first appearance on “It’s Showtime” to surprise to Daddy Jhong