Kontrabida Actors Have the Best Hair: A Gallery of Proof

What is a kontrabida? She’s usually the mortal enemy of the main actor in a teleserye, a thrilling TV drama series. Kontrabida actors are fodder for excitement in movies and plays. She is a villain you love to hate. She fills you with contempt and rage for creating a hellish life for the leading lady. She slaps, she steals, she curses, and she does even worse things. But perhaps her biggest crime? She does all of this with great hair.

There are many kontrabida characters out there today. Think Cruella de Vil and Maleficent (the Angelina Jolie version), but less likable and filled with rage and contempt. Here, we list some iconic villains who have stood the test of time, not least because of their hairstyles.

While Vilma Santos’ Darna is the superheroine, Celia Rodriguez is called Ang Babaeng Ahas. Her Medusa-inspired 'do gives off an if-looks-could-kill vibe. Rodriguez’s portrayal of Valentina with a half-braided hairstyle earned her super-cult celebrity status. Although the original Darna film was made in the ‘50s and there have been several iterations since – including in TV and theater – Rodriguez’s Valentina from the ‘70s is arguably the most iconic.

“You’re nothing but a second-rate, trying hard copycat,” hisses the late Cherie Gil as the Lavinia in the film Bituing Walang Ningning. She starred opposite Sharon Cuneta’s sweet character. Although there are many kontrabida actors out there, Gil was one of the best. People quote her famous line to this day in parodies, sketches, and even memes. She plays a wealthy and fierce lady and has the ultra-prim villain hairstyle to match.

Although Sasha has an angelic visage, her hairstyle and lipstick underscore her evil heart. Played by kontrabida actor Maricar Reyes-Poon, Sasha stars opposite Bea Alonzo’s character Rose. Sasha tries to take everything away from Rose, including her partner. She is evil incarnate. If you ever need character hairstyle ideas, look no further than Sasha, who is always dangerously, perfectly coiffed.

To get Sasha’s level of luscious hair, try Dove Botanical Silicone Free Shampoo for Damaged Hair Restore. Its ingredients include Pink Moroccan Rose extract that nourishes hair and gives it a refreshing, light feeling.

In the ‘90s, the name Gladys Reyes was on everybody’s lips. Why? She played Clara, a kontrabida against Judy Ann Santos’ Mara. The two teen stars portray women who were switched at birth. Mara is brought up poor while Clara is raised in privilege and has the attitude to match. Clara’s bob-cut style was a trend back then, and women emulated her short-haired ‘do.

While these kontrabidas’ plans may not always succeed, their hair is never out of place. Get their sharp look with TRESemmé Keratin Smooth Shine Serum. Use it after shampooing and conditioning to fight frizz, boost shine, and tame flyaways, for ultra-soft hair.

Filipinos just love to hate the villain – and thankfully, local pop culture rewards us with many great ones. How else would we forget our woes for the day? These women allow viewers to fantasize and escape themselves, imagining what it would be like to be beautifully evil, or even be the one scorned. If nothing else, kontrabida actors entertain – and give us great hairstyle ideas to boot.