Richard Gutierrez takes on a new mission

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After the highly successful “Iron Heart,” Richard Gutierrez embarks on a new mission in the Netflix series “Incognito,” which starts streaming today, January 17, on Netflix.

“Incognito” marks another milestone in the 40-year-old actor’s career. It taps into his fascination with soldiers, particularly elite Navy SEALs. As a child, Richard dreamt of joining the military, a path his mother discouraged. So, for him, the show is not just another action series — it’s a passion project. His role as JB, a former soldier now hired as a private military contractor, reflects his childhood dream of serving in the military.

“Actually, nung nasa States ako Iniisip ko na ‘yun na magsundalo ako after high school. Obviously hindi ako pinayagan ng nanay ko kaya pinauwi ako dito sa Pilipinas,” he said with a chuckle, “Kasi may mga kaibigan ako na naging sundalo sa Amerika and parang naging dream ko siya actually to be part of the navy seals kasi nagte-training na ako ng martial arts before sa America.”

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His love for martial arts and combat skills has served him well — whether fighting bullies during his time in the US or portraying the character of Jose Bonifacio (JB) in “Incognito.” JB is a nod to iconic action heroes with the same initials, like Jack Bauer, Jason Bourne, and of course, James Bond.

“Dream ko talaga siya. Growing up, nagbabasa ako ng mga libro about it until I found out about this private military contractor who were doing secret … so naintriga ako dun sa concept na ‘yun. At sinabi ko ‘yun kay Direk Lester [Pimentel Ong] and along with Star Creatives, they decided to conceptualize this ‘Incognito.’ … Plus the fact na sinabi nila na we’ll be filming all over the world di ba? And it’s gonna be a hard-hitting action, so it’s a project I can’t say no to, you know? And working with the same team as ‘Iron Heart’,” he related.

Aside from the concept, the story, the genre, the evolution of technology in filmmaking also excites him.

“We’re using advanced cameras now, and even the fight choreography has evolved,” said Richard. “With Netflix, the storytelling feels like a film. Every scene needs to be perfect, and it’s great to work in such a high-quality environment.”

Despite starting in the industry as a child star, Richard’s passion for his craft remains undiminished. He is committed to delivering the best in every project, offering suggestions and ideas, and undergoing intense preparation in advance.

“I think I’ve paid my dues in action,” he said, reflecting on his extensive training in martial arts and tactical combat. “I’ve trained in almost every martial art — karate, aikido, jujitsu, muay thai, and boxing. It’s been a long-time passion of mine.”

This dedication has shaped him not only into someone with physical discipline but also mental toughness and humility.

“It’s a humbling experience because you’re always learning, always a student,” he explained.

His passion for physical challenges extends beyond film. After the pandemic, he secretly took up gun competitions, which he describes as “the modern martial art.” “I started competing in gun competitions after the pandemic, secretly, wearing a mask,” he said, smiling at the irony of being “incognito” even before starring in a show of the same title. “I even placed third once.”

“Incognito” is also special as it allows Richard the chance to share scenes with his real-life father, veteran actor Eddie Gutierrez, who had been absent from the screen for some time.

“Ang sarap na magkatrabaho kami ulit. I think the last time was ‘Captain Barbell’ pa,” said Richard.

“Actually nung sinabi sa kanya na gusto syang kunin as my father, sobrang excited siya especially na ‘yung character nya ay ex-general.

“Mini minimize lang namin ‘yung risk din nya, kasi syempre may edad na rin ‘yung dad ko, and alam naman natin pag teleserye talagang madugong trabaho ‘yan. Pukpukan ‘yan, puyatan.

“Dito sa ‘Incognito’ we made sure na pag nag guest siya, talagang nasa oras. ‘Yung scripts niya in advance binibigay. Pagdating niya sa set, memorized na niya kaya ang sarap nung batuhan namin. He’s very passionate about it.”

Aside from his father, his children, Zion and Kai, have also shown interest in acting, asking questions during visits to the “Incognito” set in Baguio. “Zion wants to do a cameo in one of my shows,” he said with a laugh. “I’d be happy to let him, depending on the story, of course. It’s something special for him — and for me, too.”

As he celebrates his 41st birthday on January 21, Richard is already looking ahead to new opportunities. “I’m planning to do a movie this year — possibly a rom-com that my twin brother Raymond suggested,” he reveals.

This new project could mark a departure from the action genre, but Richard is open to the idea. “Raymond has an interesting concept. We’ll see where it goes,” he said.

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Looking back on his career, he reflects on the changes that have shaped him. “There have been so many changes, but I’m happy with where I am,” he says. “I get to spend time with my kids, and I’m still doing the work that I love. Professionally, I’m excited about “Incognito,” and personally, I’m just grateful for everything I have.”

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