As drag artist Maxie Andreison returns to the spotlight following the resurfacing of a three-year-old video involving an altercation with a fan, ZEEN is revisiting an exclusive interview with Christian Bables, who previously shared his thoughts on Andreison’s casting in the upcoming Die Beautiful musical. The interview was conducted before the video resurfaced online.

Speaking to ZEEN ahead of the release of Drags to Riches, Bables expressed excitement over the stage adaptation of the acclaimed 2016 film, where he portrayed Barbs, the fiercely loyal best friend and confidante of Trisha.

“I’m excited for the idea. Kasi alam ko kung gaano ka-close sa mga puso nila ang Die Beautiful and finally, magkakaroon ng pagsasadula. So I’m excited kung sino ang bagong Trisha and sino si Barbs.”

Upon learning that Andreison had been cast as Trisha, Bables admitted he had initially envisioned the drag performer taking on a different role.

Bables also revealed that he had initially imagined the drag performer taking on a different role. “Siya ‘yung bet ko for Barbs.”

Bables explained that it was the performer’s spirited personality that reminded him of the character he once portrayed.

“Personally, gusto ko siyang mag-Barbs kasi ‘yung pagiging feisty ni Barbs nakikita ko kay Maxie. Pero feeling ko magiging okay din siya as Trisha.”

Originally portrayed by Paolo Ballesteros, Trisha Echevarria is the central character of Die Beautiful, a landmark Filipino film that follows the life and final wish of a transgender beauty queen. 

Bables’ portrayal of Barbs—Trisha’s unwavering best friend—became one of the film’s most memorable performances.

The upcoming stage adaptation will see Andreison take on the role of Trisha, joined by fellow drag artist Viñas Deluxe in the production, introducing Die Beautiful to a new generation of theater audiences.