EXCLUSIVE: Kira Balinger Opens Up About Her Dream Role—Wants to Become the Next ‘Dyesebel’

By Jemuel Tandoc | PUSH Team | Published: May 12, 2025 – 6:07 PM PHT

Though her time inside the Pinoy Big Brother: Celebrity Edition Collab house was cut short, Kira Balinger left a lasting impression. Teaming up with her duo Charlie Fleming, the young actress quickly became a fan favorite. Now that her PBB journey has ended, Kira is looking ahead—and her dreams are bigger than ever.

In an exclusive interview with PUSH ABS-CBN, Kira opened up about her passion for acting, her dream roles, and the actress she looks up to most.

The Mermaid Dream: Dyesebel

One of Kira’s most ambitious goals is to play the legendary Dyesebel, the iconic Filipino mermaid created by Mars Ravelo. The character has been portrayed by several major stars over the years, most notably Anne Curtis in the 2014 ABS-CBN television adaptation.

“The one Ate Anne Curtis did—that’s the version I really fell in love with,” Kira shared. “Ever since I was young, I’ve always wanted to be a mermaid. I love the beach, I love fish, and I enjoy going to aquariums. So to follow in the footsteps of Anne Curtis would be such a huge honor for me. If I ever got to play Dyesebel, I’d honestly feel like I’ve made it.”

Her candid admission sparked excitement among fans, with many already imagining how Kira’s youthful charm and beachy vibe would perfectly fit the role of the ocean-dwelling heroine.

When asked who she’d want to play Fredo, Dyesebel’s romantic interest, Kira paused and laughed.

“That’s a hard one,” she admitted. “I can’t give you a name right now. I really have to think about that.”

In the 2014 adaptation, Fredo was portrayed by Gerald Anderson, opposite Anne Curtis. Now, fans are eager to speculate who might suit the role if Kira ever dons the tail and crown.

Not Just a Mermaid: Kira Eyes a Kontrabida Role

While Kira dreams of playing a classic bida character like Dyesebel, she also revealed her eagerness to take on something more intense—a complex antagonist role.

“I really want to play a kontrabida,” she said. “Someone who isn’t evil for no reason, but has real depth and emotion behind her actions.”

Kira pointed to actress Jodi Sta. Maria as her biggest inspiration in this regard. She specifically praised Jodi’s performance in the series Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin, where Jodi played a layered character who transitioned between protagonist and antagonist throughout the story.

“Ate Jodi in Ang Sa Iyo Ay Akin—that was on another level. I want to be a kontrabida with that kind of emotional range. She’s not even known for playing villains, but she really owned that role. I look up to her so much,” Kira explained.

Working with Her Idol

Kira was fortunate enough to work alongside Jodi Sta. Maria on a previous project, and though they didn’t share many scenes, the young actress said the experience left a major impact on her.

“She acts with her whole heart,” Kira recalled. “There were moments when I was taken out of character just because I was watching her perform and thinking, ‘Oh my God, is she serious right now?’ She’s that powerful.”

Despite limited on-screen interaction, Kira says Jodi’s presence on set helped shape her approach to acting.

“We didn’t have many scenes together, but just being on the same show with her was inspiring. The way she carries herself, the way she treats the role—it really makes you want to step up your game.”

What’s Next for Kira?

Now that she’s out of the PBB house, Kira is back to pursuing her acting career full-force. While no official casting has been announced yet for any new Dyesebel project, her fans are already calling for it online—eager to see her bring the beloved character to life.

Whether as a mermaid swimming through coral kingdoms or a sharp-tongued kontrabida plotting revenge, one thing is clear: Kira Balinger is ready to take on any challenge the industry throws her way.

“I’m just really excited for what’s next,” she said. “And I hope people continue to support me in whatever role I take on—whether it’s Dyesebel or someone totally unexpected.”