Paolo Ballesteros
Paolo Elito Macapagal Ballesteros IV is a Filipino actor, comedian and drag queen. He has appeared in films and several TV shows, he is one of the co-hosts of longtime noontime show Eat Bulaga! since 2001, and he is the host of Drag Race Philippines and Drag Race Philippines: Slaysian Royale.
Early life
Paolo Elito Macapagal Ballesteros IV was born on November 29, 1982 in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija.Career
In March of 2016, Ballesteros was reportedly suspended from Eat Bulaga! for six months because of several rants which he posted on his Facebook account; in the post, he discussed his personal grievances with the live-show setup, organization, filming process, and catering services. During his six-month suspension period, Ballesteros took roles in Die Beautiful and Bakit Lahat ng Gwapo may Boyfriend?, and he returned to Eat Bulaga! on September 5, 2016. He received an award as best actor for his role in Die Beautiful at the 29th Annual Tokyo International Film Festival.In 2022, he was chosen to be the host of Drag Race Philippines with recurring judges Jiggly Caliente and Kaladkaren Davila.
Impersonation and makeup transformation
Ballesteros is known for his various impersonation of female and male artists, and he has earned international acclaim for his makeup skills. He has posted pictures of his numerous makeup transformations through his Instagram account, transforming himself into Hollywood celebrities, as well as local artists.For the 2016 Tokyo International Film Festival, he impersonated two female celebrities, the first being Angelina Jolie during the red carpet and opening ceremony, in an Emerald Modern Filipiniana Fishtail black velvet terno gown, with typical squared sleeves, black opera gloves and black high heels. On the awards night and following press conference, he emulated Julia Roberts, wearing a gold sequin dress with white high heels and white opera gloves.
Personal life
Ballesteros is related to Filipino painter Fernando Amorsolo, who is his great-grandfather, and fellow celebrity Eula Valdez, who is his aunt.He was romantically involved with Katrina Nevada, with whom he has a daughter, Keira Claire.
In August 2019, Ballesteros confirmed that he is a gay man after years of speculation on his sexuality. Ballesteros who has been known for his makeup transformation inspired from women celebrities, also remarked that he is a "lady" although he clarifies he does not present as feminine outside his profession.