Filtered by: Lifestyle

Manny Jacinto was in the Philippines earlier this week, sparking growing curiosity about him.

Over the years, the “Freakier Friday” star has proven his acting skills and undeniable charm.

Here are five facts about the Filipino-Canadian actor winning hearts everywhere:

1. He was born in the Philippines and raised in Canada

Manny, born Manuel Luis Jacinto on August 19, 1987, in Manila, Philippines, moved with his family to Richmond, British Columbia, Canada, at age three. He is of Filipino and Chinese descent.

2. Beauty and brains

Manny isn’t just handsome—he’s also highly educated. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Civil Engineering from the University of British Columbia.

Besides English, Manny speaks multiple languages. “I speak French and a little Tagalog,” he once shared.

He even perfected a new skill for his role as the charming Eric in “Freakier Friday.”

3. He can dance, too

Is there anything Manny can’t do?

During college, he was part of a competitive hip-hop dance crew. His team placed 10th out of over 40 countries at the 2013 World Hip Hop Championship in Las Vegas, Nevada.

4. Manny is a fashion icon

A quick look at his Instagram reveals appearances at fashion weeks and red-carpet events, always impeccably dressed.

He has attended events for Hermès, Tod’s, and Thom Browne and has graced the cover of Vogue Man Philippines.

5. He’s taken on diverse and captivating roles

Manny has portrayed a wide range of characters. He gained fame as the endearing but simple-minded Jason Mendoza in “The Good Place” (2016–2020).

In 2024, he transformed into the Sith master The Stranger (Qimir) in “The Acolyte.” As seen in his Instagram Reel, he trained intensely for his action scenes.

Most recently, he played Eric Davies, a charming chef and single dad engaged to Anna.

Manila

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is a vibrant city with a rich history dating back to its founding in 1571 by Spanish conquistadors. Known for its historic Intramuros district, a walled city from the Spanish colonial era, Manila blends colonial architecture with modern urban life. It has played a key role in trade, culture, and politics in Southeast Asia, enduring occupations by Spain, the U.S., and Japan before becoming a bustling metropolis.

Richmond

Richmond is a historic town in southwest London, England, known for its royal connections and scenic riverside location along the Thames. It was once home to Richmond Palace, a favorite residence of Queen Elizabeth I, built in the 16th century and later demolished after the English Civil War. Today, Richmond is famous for its expansive park (Richmond Park), charming Georgian architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.

University of British Columbia

The **University of British Columbia (UBC)**, founded in 1908, is one of Canada’s leading research universities, located in Vancouver, British Columbia. Established on unceded Musqueam land, UBC has grown into a globally recognized institution with a strong emphasis on sustainability, innovation, and Indigenous engagement. Its scenic Point Grey campus overlooks the Pacific Ocean and hosts over 60,000 students, offering a diverse range of academic programs.

Las Vegas

Las Vegas, founded in 1905, is a major city in Nevada, USA, renowned for its vibrant nightlife, casinos, and entertainment. Originally a stopover for travelers, it transformed into a gambling and resort hub after the legalization of gambling in 1931. Today, it’s a global destination famous for its themed hotels, shows, and the iconic Las Vegas Strip.

Nevada

Nevada is a state in the western United States, known for its vast deserts, vibrant cities like Las Vegas, and rich mining history. It became the 36th state in 1864, during the Civil War, partly due to its silver deposits. Today, Nevada is famous for its entertainment, gambling, and iconic landmarks such as the Hoover Dam and Lake Tahoe.

Vogue Man Philippines

“Vogue Man Philippines” is a local edition of the global *Vogue Man* brand, focusing on men’s fashion, lifestyle, and culture in the Philippine context. Launched as an offshoot of *Vogue Philippines*, it highlights Filipino designers, models, and trends while aligning with the international prestige of the *Vogue* name. The magazine celebrates modern masculinity and local creativity, contributing to the growing influence of Philippine fashion on the global stage.

The Good Place

“The Good Place” is a fictional utopian afterlife setting from the NBC comedy series of the same name (2016–2020), created by Michael Schur. The show explores moral philosophy through the story of Eleanor Shellstrop (Kristen Bell) and other humans who navigate a highly bureaucratic afterlife system, initially believing they are in “The Good Place” due to their virtuous lives—though flaws soon emerge. The series blends humor with deep ethical questions, reimagining the concept of heaven and redemption.

The Acolyte

“The Acolyte” is not a known historical or cultural site, but rather the title of an upcoming *Star Wars* television series set to premiere on Disney+. The show explores the dark side’s rise in the final days of the High Republic era, centuries before the main *Star Wars* films, focusing on a former Padawan investigating a series of crimes. Its story delves into Sith infiltration and Jedi intrigue, expanding the *Star Wars* lore.