‘Sunshine’ Star Maris Racal Is on a Roll With Three Major Acting Wins—Here’s A Look Back at Her Career as an Artist

The past year has been a remarkable one for Philippine cinema, with local films earning recognition on the international stage and making waves at home. Among the names making headlines in the acting scene is Kapamilya actress Maris Racal, whose performance in Sunshine has earned her two major Best Actress awards this year.

For many, Maris has become synonymous with the titular character of Sunshine, a teenage rhythmic gymnast whose Olympic dreams are put on hold when she discovers she is pregnant shortly before her national team tryouts.

Directed by Antoinette Jadaone, the film explores the young athlete’s struggles as she confronts an unexpected turn in her life.

Even before its Philippine release, Sunshine had already gained international recognition. The film premiered at the 49th Toronto International Film Festival on September 13, 2024, before making its European premiere at the 2025 Berlin International Film Festival on February 18, where it was featured in the Generation 14plus section.

It was also selected for the 24th New York Asian Film Festival, held from July 11 to 27, 2025, for its New York premiere. Among its notable achievements was winning the Crystal Bear for Best Film in the Generation 14plus competition at the Berlin International Film Festival.

Following its Philippine theatrical release on July 23, 2025, Sunshine continued to earn recognition at local award ceremonies, with its cast receiving accolades for their performances. Among them was Jennica Garcia, who won the Best Supporting Actress award at the Gawad Urian Awards for her portrayal of Geleen, Sunshine’s older sister.

However, Maris has been enjoying an impressive awards season of her own. This year so far, she has earned three major acting honors: Movie Actress of the Year at the 42nd PMPC Star Awards for Movies, Best Actress at the 49th Gawad Urian Awards, and the Actress of Distinction Award at the 74th FAMAS Awards.

Following her Urian win, Maris took to social media to express her gratitude, writing, “MAY URIAN NA AKO!!!! Maraming Salamat PAPA GOD!” During her acceptance speech, she also shared how much the recognition meant to her, saying, “Ilang beses ko ‘tong in-imagine. Ilang beses ko siyang ginawang inspirasyon para paghusayan sa pag-arte, at totoo na siya, may Urian na ‘ko.”

With these accolades, Maris has marked a defining chapter in her acting career. As Sunshine continues to be recognized for its impact, her wins also signal an exciting new phase for the actress, whose performance has demonstrated her growth and range as a leading lady in Philippine cinema.

Becoming one of the country’s critically acclaimed actresses may not have been what many initially envisioned for Maris Racal, whose career first gained momentum through her musical talent. Over the years, however, she has continued to prove that her artistry extends far beyond music.

Maris began her showbiz journey in 2014 when she joined Pinoy Big Brother: All In, where she finished as the season’s runner-up. Following her stint on the reality show, she signed with Star Magic and began exploring opportunities in the entertainment industry.

That same year, she gained online attention after uploading a cover of Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud” on YouTube on October 28. The video sparked a worldwide trending topic on Twitter, now X, and garnered nearly two million views. In 2015, she continued to showcase her musical talent through her YouTube series Maris My Song For You, in which she performed covers of popular songs requested by her fans.

In April 2015, Maris released her debut single, “Tanong Mo Sa Bituin,” as part of Star Records’ compilation album OPM Fresh. The song also served as the official soundtrack for the film Stars Versus Me. She later joined It’s Showtime’s all-girl dance group Girltrends and ASAP’s sing-and-dance group BFF5.

While music remains part of her artistic journey, acting has since become another avenue for Maris to showcase her versatility. Before her breakthrough in Sunshine, she gained mainstream recognition for her portrayal of Irene Tiu in the 2023 romantic drama series Can’t Buy Me Love.

In the series, she played a sarcastic, spoiled, and alcoholic young woman whose rivalry with her half-sister, Caroline Tiu (Belle Mariano), eventually intertwines with her complicated relationship with Snoop Manansala (Anthony Jennings). Her portrayal of Irene resonated with viewers, particularly through the character’s comedic moments and romantic storylines.

From making a name for herself as a musician to earning recognition for her acting, Maris Racal has come a long way in her showbiz journey.

While Can’t Buy Me Love showcased her talent for comedy and romance, Sunshine revealed her ability to take on more complex, emotionally demanding roles. With her latest Best Actress wins, Maris has reached a new milestone in her career, proving that her growth as an artist is far from over.

Lead photos accessed from @mariesteller