Newbie actress Carla Abellana is being positioned by GMA-7 as the next big thing in show business via the popular teleserye, “Rosalinda,” in which she plays the title role.

A cum laude graduate of the De La Salle University, Carla is the daughter of 80s actor, Rey "PJ" Abellana, and the granddaughter of veteran actress, Delia Razon.

At 15, Carla tried her hand at modeling but had to turn down other offers in favor of her studies.

In 2009, after chalking up a degree in Psychology, she auditioned to be one of Richard Gutierrez’s leading ladies in “Zorro.” However, GMA-7 saw a potential for her and that is to topbill “Rosalinda.”

Carla is not shy to admit her apprehensions, not only of her role as Rosalinda but also of being a newcomer thrust into the big league.

“Fears? Marami. Pero ang importante [ay] marunong naman ako umarte,” she said. “(My) excitement is my motivation (for work). I also believe that if you work hard, makukuha mo yung rewards.”

Director Joel Lamangan, who spearheaded an acting workshop for GMA-7, only had nice words for Carla.

“She is very good, very diligent, very intelligent.  She has the correct emotions needed for whatever role she will tackle,” said Joel.

On the other hand, Carla’s leading man, Geoff Eigenmann, hinted that it’s not impossible for him to fall for the actress..  

“There’s nothing not to like about Carla,” Geoff said. “There’s no mean bone. Sobrang daling ma-in love sa kanya actually.

“Sobrang sarap niyang kasama at very professional siya. Even if it’s her first try, hindi siya nahihiyang magpaturo. Wala siyang pretensions at all. Sobrang gaan niyang kasama. Kahit mahirap ang eksena at mga gagawin niya, nakikisama pa rin siya with everyone. Walang ere at all.”

Geoff added that she Carla text and call up each other. They are yet to go out on a date, though.

“Everyday we learn something about each other, (but) friends lang muna kami. We’re taking it slow.

“We’re enjoying [tutal] matagal pa ang pagsasamahan namin.”

"Rosalinda" will air on GMA-7 on July 6, Monday.