Filipino-Australian RJ Rosales passed away last Sunday, December 4, in Sydney, Australia. He was 37.
The cause of his death has not yet been determined, but initial reports say he died from a heart attack.
RJ was born in Manila, but spent his early adult years in Sydney after his family migrated there when he was 13.
While in Sydney, RJ became part of the Australian production of Miss Saigon.
He continued his career in theater when he moved to Singapore—where he performed as an actor in several productions including Chang and Eng The Musical, The Student Prince, Man of Letters, Cabaret, and Forbidden City.
RJ made his first mark in local show business as a singer and as an actor.
He was most notable in his collaboration with female recording artist Carol Banawa for the song "Together Forever," which was used as a theme song in the movie Forevermore (2002).
He also became part of the Sunday musical-variety show ASAP.
His acting skill, on the other hand, was noticed in the 2005 Metro Manila Film Festival Best Picture Blue Moon. This Regal Films production earned him a nomination for Best Supporting Actor.
RJ moved back to Australia in late 2007 for the revived production of Sir Cameron Mackintosh's musical Miss Saigon.
As Thuy in this musical, RJ bagged the Best Supporting Actor in a Musical award during the Helpmann Awards in 2007.
Meanwhile, Star Magic, which handled RJ's career in the Philippines, expressed its condolences to his family.
In a brief statement, the ABS-CBN talent arm said:
"Star Magic sympathizes with RJ's family in his untimely demise. We ask everyone to pray for the eternal repose of RJ's soul."