Written by Edwin Francisco
Albert Martinez has joined the cast of the GMA Network’s Voltes V: Legacy.
The TV series is the Philippine live-action version of the classic Japanese anime, Voltes V.
Specifically, Albert Martinez plays Doctor Richard Smith.
Voltes V: Legacy has been one of the most anticipated shows in the Philippines.
Although Toei Company and Nippon Sunrise produced just 40 episodes, Voltes V became an icon for Generation kids in the Philippines.
Moreover, Voltes V made a cultural impact in Indonesia and Cuba.
In the Philippines, though, Voltes V had themes of rebellion and revolution that resonated with youths under martial law.
The government labeled the series “dangerous to children.”
Furthermore, President Marcos banned it from Philippine television.
It was only possible to watch the show by renting illegal copies on Betamax or VHS tapes.
When old episodes Voltes V returned to Philippine airwaves in 1990, it was massive.
After all, the loss of Voltes V crushed young hearts.
Although Voltes V originated originally came from Japan, the program embedded itself in Filipino history.
Albert Martinez (Las Hermanas) has been acted since the ’80s.
Albert Martinez Joins Cast Of The GMA Network’s Voltes V: Legacy
Image: GMA
Through the decades, critics have praised his acting.
In addition, he won two acting awards from the Metro Manila Film Festival.
Rumors spread that Albert Martinez joined the cast of Voltes V: Legacy.
Insiders verified the gossip.
It’s true. All of it.
Albert Martinez landed a role also known as Professor Hamaguchi in Voltes V.
He’s the former commander of Camp Big Falcon fortress.
He is regarded as the Earth’s top scientist.
He designed and built the Voltes V robot alongside Doctor Ned Armstrong (a.k.a. Professor Kentaro Go).
Albert Martinez’s participation is good news.
He is a well-known veteran actor.
Indeed, Albert Martinez injects gravitas to Voltes V: Legacy. Hardcore fans slam disrespect to the show’s roots.
Adapting mecha series is a delicate balancing act.
Purists bashed Michael Bay’s Transformers movies.
Albert Martinez Joins Cast Of The GMA Network’s Voltes V: Legacy
Yes, the Transformers films swallowed billions.
In the end, it didn’t matter.
Paramount rebooted it with 2018’s Bumblebee.
Voltes V: Legacy is in production again.
Filming originally started last May 28, 2021, but the show halted the following month.
The Philippine government imposed quarantine due to COVID-19.
Albert Martinez joins an impressive youthful cast.
Miguel Tanfelix won the male lead as Steve Armstrong.
Ysabel Ortega is Jamie Robinson.
Geekosity Editor-in-Chief Mikey Sutton scooped Tanfelix and Ortega on January 22, 2021.
Director Mark A. Reyes has been deeply committed to make sure Voltes V: Legacy is true to the anime, which is a high bar to reach.
Everything is being approved and supervised by the Toei Company in Japan.
Related: Miguel Tanfelix Officially Cast in Voltes V: Legacy – Scoop Confirmed
