The hashtag “#BagongDarna” trended on Twitter Philippines after Liza Soberano revealed that she can no longer play the lead role of the upcoming movie due to medical-related issues.
ABS-CBN employee Eric John Salut asked Twitter users who they want to don the iconic red-and-gold costume next.
Several users suggested lots of names but the ones that stood out were Nadine Lustre, Maja Salvador and Julia Montes.
There were also those who voted for Loisa Andalio, Pia Wurtzbach, Kathryn Bernardo and Angel Locsin.
It is to be noted, however, that Locsin developed a spinal injury in 2015 that prevented her from further doing intense physical scenes which is a requisite for the role.
Others users said that Lustre seemed perfect to play Darna, claiming that she has the distinctive look to play the part of the local superheroine.
It was recently revealed that the actress was the inspiration for Wave, the first Filipina heroine of Marvel.
Maja Salvador!
Or si Nadine Lustre since sa kaniya na-inspire yung first Filipina Superhero ng Marvel na si Wave, meaning, may POTENTIAL 😊❤️https://t.co/tEXSC6i6vj
#BagongDarna pic.twitter.com/yWjsGoI4GC
— ( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡° ) (@asdfghjumiii) April 5, 2019
Some users shared that Salvador could take the role, citing her television series before where she performed a risky stunt that involved her climbing to a flying helicopter in heeled boots.
For me Maja Salvador @dprincessmaja fits for the #BagongDarna . Sino ba ang naka get over na kay Lily Cruz at sa mga fight scenes niya? 😍 pic.twitter.com/SHPdoyi47G
— ♪♪♪Peaceful Heart♥♥♥ (@amb_rvl) April 5, 2019
Others claimed that Montes can play the role, citing her previous experiences in both drama and action series.
She has been recognized as the “Princess of Philippine Television” by the Guillermo Mendoza Memorial Scholarship Foundation Inc.
Since there’s still no confirmation from her part of the rumors circulating about her, I’m still rooting for JULIA MONTES. Physically, acting-wise, and experience-wise when it comes to action scenes, she’s perfect for the role.#BagongDarna
— La Reine Mara 👑💖 (@TheQueenMara) April 5, 2019
Liza Soberano’s injury
Liza Soberano officially withdrew from the role after she suffered a bone fracture in her previous television series that led her to undergo therapy and surgeries, according to ABS-CBN’s Corporate Communications Head Kane Errol Choa.
“Liza suffered a finger bone fracture while doing a fight scene on the set of ‘Bagani’ last year. She is still undergoing treatment and recovering from the trauma,” Choa said in a statement.
“Unfortunately, after consultation with her doctors, it was deemed best for Liza not to pursue the project as the injury shall hamper her from effectively doing the movie stunts required,” she continued.
The network, however, added that the project will push through with Jerrold Tarog as its director.