Former StarStruck finalist Rocco Nacino, who was named Second Prince at the conclusion of StarStruck V, must have felt odd about the title he earned.

Some people may have gotten the impression that he is destined for second-fiddle jobs.

Wait. Fast forward to February 2012 and here we see Rocco playing the lead role in a drama series. He is leading man to actress Kylie Padilla, portraying the character of Darwin Alejandro who is described as the rebellious love interest, ally of the troubled Bea Guevarra (Kylie).

The high-rated teleserye also stars Raymond Bagatsing, Alicia Mayer, and Max Collins. Its plot revolves around Bea whose mother dies – a shocking turn to a nice life as her father remarries and brings home a stepmother she disapproves of.

The rising Rocco Nacino is fast pulling away from the shadow of having to come off from StarStruck, gaining grounds after delivering good performances for significant roles awarded him. He acted as national hero Jose Rizal in “Pluma”, danced his way as Jason in the genre-bending “Time of my Life,’ and played a crucial part in “Mistaken Identity”, the first morning drama series produced by the GMA ETV group.

He also had remarkable stints in the successful series “Amaya” and “Gumapang Ka Sa Lusak.”

Whereas he can serve as a viable dramatic actor, his versatility has made him a bankable comic act as well. He is regularly seen in “Bubble Gang” sharing screen time with the likes of Michael V and Ogie Alcasid. Recently he stood as “Tadijack”, spoof of Jack Dawson in James Cameron’s “Titanic” movie, for the documentary about the doomed ship for the Drew Arellano-hosted program “Aha!”

One of the truly promising GMA Artist Center heartthrobs, Rocco is displaying some great dance moves on Party Pilipinas on Sundays.