Discover the milestones that have highlighted the career of Elijah Canlas, from his early education in the arts to his breakthrough performances that earned him accolades and the adoration of fans and critics alike.
Biography
Born on August 16, 2000, in Manila, Philippines, Elijah Luiz Madiclum Canlas is the middle child of Rommel and Lyn Canlas.
He is affectionately nicknamed Jelo in this family of performers.
His elder sibling Jerom Andrei, and younger brother, the late Jamile Matthew (also known as JM), had taken on various roles in film, theater, and television as well.
Their mother, a ballerina and theater actress from Bacolod, introduced them to the performing arts at an early age.
Elijah completed his elementary education at the Statefields School in Bacoor, Cavite.
He pursued Theater Arts at the Philippine High School for the Arts for his junior high school education, and graduated from senior high school at the MINT College.
Currently, he is pursuing a Bachelor of Arts degree in Philippine Arts at the University of the Philippines Manila while actively engaged in his acting career.
Breakthrough
At 14, Elijah embarked on his acting career with a major role in Sundalong Kanin (2014), presented at Cinemalaya by director Janice O'Hara.
His initial audition for Kalel, 15 (2019), which was previously titled Son of God, was unsuccessful as the producers were looking for a mestizo-looking actor to fill the lead role.
Four years later, director Jun Robles Lana eventually offered him the lead role after much deliberation. His performance in Edward (2019) earned him the Best Supporting Actor award from the Pampelikulang Samahan ng mga Dalubguro (PASADO).
movies and TV shows
Sundalong Kanin (2014)
In this Cinemalaya film, Elijah takes on the character of Badong. The narrative is set in 1941 in the Philippines, during a time of global turmoil and shifting powers. In the midst of this chaos, four young friends from San Nicolas see the war as their chance to prove their manhood.
With simple weapons like slingshots and arrows, they seek out guerilla fighters as their own valiant efforts in strengthening the resistance against the occupying Japanese forces. Although their efforts are initially dismissed, the stakes rise when the conflict hits close to home.
Kalel, 15 (2019)
In this movie, Elijah portrays the role of a Catholic teenager grappling with the complexities of his identity and family secrets. Living with the knowledge that his father is a priest, Kalel seeks validation and affection through online encounters. His life takes a dramatic turn when he is diagnosed with HIV and his mother disappears with a lover. This leaves him with his sister and her problematic boyfriend.
Paano ang Pasko? (2020)
Season one of this Christmas series follows the story of a family that does its best to strive. It's their journey to embrace the true essence of Christmas amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, the family is also grappling with personal challenges.
Paano ang Pangako? (2020)
This is the sequel to the Christmas series in relation to the pandemic. During the second season, the family's matriarch is dealing with a web of secrets and scandals. Their lives become even more tumultuous with the entrance of another family that is determined to dismantle their wealth and reputation.
Gameboys: The Movie (2021)
This BL movie serves as a continuation of the popular YouTube series, with Elijah reprising his role as Cairo Lazaro. The film explores the relationship between Cairo and his partner Gavreel (Kokoy De Santos) as they enjoy a romantic stay at Gavreel's place. Their love is put to the test when what was meant to be a blissful holiday challenges their bond in unexpected ways.
The Iron Heart (2023)
This series features Elijah as a recurring character, Conrado Reyes. This action-packed Philippine drama series on Kapamilya Channel has Richard Gutierrez in the lead role.
Senior High (2023)
In this ongoing series, Elijah portrays Archie Aguerro, one of the main characters. The story revolves around a mysterious death of a student from Northford High. The cause of death was initially thought of as suicide. However, the victim's twin sister suspects foul play and her pursuit of the truth exposes a lot of secrets along the way.